Scott McLaughlin goes for third win of the year today from pole

Today’s Schedule All Times Pacific

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

10:20 AM – 11:15 AM Indy Lights Race Peacock
11:40 AM NTT INDYCAR SERIES Driver Introductions
12:30 PM NTT INDYCAR SERIES Grand Prix of Portland (110
laps) NBC; Peacock

Indycar issued new procedures for today’s race. The pole winner may accelerate at the exit of turn 12. This new start zone will intheory get more separation between the cars entering turn 1 and avoid the chaos we have seen the last few years.

Drivers who go over the curbing at the apex of turn 2 must make “every effort to use the second turb 1 runoff chicane. A penalty may result if the procedure is not followed.

There is a lot at stake at today’s Grand Prix of Portland. Will Power looks to extand his lead in the points standings. Josef Newgarden has some work to do from his eightth place spot on the grid to stay close enough to Power heading into the next week’s finale at Laguna Seca.

Alex Palou is on the verge of being the first defending series champion to go winless since Scott Dixon in 2004. Dixon, third in the standings has a lot of ground to make up from 16th.

Scott McLaughlin could work his way back into serious title contention with a win. He starts today 54 points behind Power. A win today and issues for Power could help his cause greatly.

Marcus Ericsson’s 17 point deficit to the lead could balloon today. He needs to move up from 18th and pretty much needs a top 5 finish to have a chance next week.

Red tires may be the tire of choice today. I’ll be back wit the starting tire selections, and then some quick thoughts after the race. There will be a wrap up here tomorrow morning, then it’s on to seattle and baseball. Enjoy the race.