By: Ashley McCubbin

With a 10th-place finish at Kansas Speedway this past weekend, Christian Eckes was able to advance to the Round of 8 as a result of having three more points than Carson Hocevar.

#98: Christian Eckes, ThorSport Racing, CMR Construction & Roofing Toyota Tundra

Despite leading laps this season and steadily running inside the top-five, the ThorSport Racing entered the post-season ranked lowest in the playoffs, but hopes it’s not an indication of how far they can go.

“It’s never good when you’re seeded last going into the playoffs, and it certainly does not show the capability of our team,” he told NEWS FROM THE PITS. “We have certainly been stronger throughout the season, and I look forward to proving that.”

Although if he is going to continue moving forward, he knows the No. 98 Toyota Tundra needs to pick up it’s first checkered flag of the season. He has come close this year with a couple runner-ups, and has five top-10’s in the last six events.

“I feel that you need to get a win to establish yourself and be able to advance forward,” he commented. “These points are close, and solid runs may help you, but proving you can be stronger could be beneficial.”

Eckes added it would be good for team morale, in boosting everyone’s confidence after being unable to capitalize in potential race winning situations through the season.

#98: Christian Eckes, ThorSport Racing, CMR Construction & Roofing Toyota Tundra

“I’ve been leading twice with two to go when the caution has come out, so hopefully we can make it all come together with a good run,” he continued.

As he navigates the playoffs, he will have a benefit compared to others, with past series champion Matt Crafton to lean on as a teammate at ThorSport.

“It certainly helps,” he commented. “Matt and Johnny (Sauter) have both been racing a long time, and then you have Ty (Majeski) who has a lot of starts behind the wheel. Combined experience between the three of us, it’s certainly very beneficial going into each weekend in working together. I feel we have a good team camaraderie going together.”

In his lone appearance at Bristol Motor Speedway, Eckes scored a 12th-place finish.