Hidalgo makes his move... Kris Whitfield, Tim Powell: Welcome to the championship discussion!

The NERD OUT is changing gears as we enter the final stretch of the 2026 NHRA Lucas Oil season. With fewer races remaining, I’m taking a weekly look at the biggest movers, shakers, and championship developments from the weekend.

This week, we’re recapping St. Louis and the impact it had on Stock, Super Stock, and Super Gas - from Jimmy Hidalgo Jr.’s late-season charge to several new names entering the championship conversation. The races are running out, and every round matters.