Carson Hocevar embraces being a NASCAR hometown hero at Michigan International Speedway

Carson Hocevar returns to Michigan International Speedway as a hometown favorite, aiming for a second win this season on the 2-mile oval. Hocevar grew up about 85 miles west in Portage and will race before a sizeable home-state crowd. Entering Sunday's 400-mile race, he is ninth in the Cup standings with 12 races left before the Chase reset.

Last year he led 32 laps at Michigan before a tire issue spoiled his chances. No Michigan-born driver has won a Cup race there, though Brad Keselowski has three runner-up finishes. Hocevar expects a large cheering section, with many fans already camping at the track.