Brad Keselowski in need of 'a miracle' in NASCAR's regular-season finale at Daytona

Daytona Beach, Fla. (AP) — Brad Keselowski, the 2012 NASCAR champion, desperately needs a miracle at the season finale to secure a playoff spot. However, his teammate Ryan Preece may have a better shot at making the postseason with a strong performance at NASCAR's home track. Keselowski and Preece are among five drivers competing for the final three playoff spots in the 10-race Chase for the championship at Daytona.

The other drivers in the mix are Bubba Wallace, Austin Cindric, and Shane van Gisbergen. Drivers are bracing for changes to the race due to NASCAR's new playoff format, which does not guarantee postseason berths for regular-season winners. The new format leaves it up to the drivers to secure their spots, leaving Preece and van Gisbergen in a tight race, with the former leading by 31 points.

Van Gisbergen is cautiously optimistic about the changes, while van Gisbergen is prepared for a conservative approach in case Preece has a strong race. The drivers will need to adapt to the new horsepower and aerodynamic changes, as engine power will be reduced from 510 to 465, and rear spoilers will be 3 inches shorter, resulting in less downforce and handling.

The race will be a test of the drivers' comfort levels and ability to make adjustments in stage one.