Big, big changes coming to the Chase? It sure does sound like it

NASCAR is considering making changes to its points system and Chase playoff format, the Charlotte Observer reports.

The changes reportedly would expand the Chase field from 12 to 16 drivers and put more emphasis on winning races. Under the proposed new format, a win in the season'€™s first 26 races would almost guarantee a spot in the Chase. If the total number of winners exceeded 16, the 16 drivers with the most wins and highest point totals would earn playoff spots.

Once the field is finalized, a round of eliminations would occur after the third, sixth and ninth races, setting up a winner-takes-all finale in Homestead, Fla.

NASCAR is expected to have an announcement regarding the Chase later this month.