Team Penske’s collective playoff success in the 2024 NASCAR season has become apparent after a strong outing at Nashville Superspeedway, where Ryan Blaney’s dominant drive underscored the team’s momentum and all three Penske drivers secured wins well before the playoffs. This development positions the team as a key contender in the ongoing battle for Cup Series supremacy, with their competitors observing a distinct shift in competitive balance.
Penske’s Driver Lineup Finds Its Groove Early
Ryan Blaney’s triumph at Nashville was not limited to his first win of the year; he commanded 139 of the 300 laps, reflecting the speed that the No. 12 Ford has demonstrated throughout the season. Yet, that performance was just one part of Team Penske’s larger story. In an impressive show of unity, Blaney, Joey Logano, and Austin Cindric each held places in the top four during the race, showcasing formidable pace across the Penske camp.
With each driver clinching a playoff berth, the team’s collective strength is hard to overlook. Blaney reflected on Penske’s recent form, recognizing how in previous seasons, the organization struggled to find momentum until later months. This year, however, the group has reversed that trend, hitting its stride much earlier.
“I’ve been really proud of Team Penske and the Wood Brothers speed this year so far through the first dozen races…,”
Blaney said, noting the extensive work carried out during the off-season. —Ryan Blaney, Driver
“I thought we just fired off this year with tons of speed, and was really proud of their efforts over the winter for that, and carrying over what we accomplished at the end of last year, and bringing it bigger and better at the start of this year,”
he added, recognizing the team’s successful transition from late-season progress to early-season dominance. —Ryan Blaney, Driver
Blaney spoke about the boost provided by seeing all three cars locked into the playoffs. He highlighted the strong communication and synergy within the Penske headquarters, suggesting that teamwork is at its highest, with each member playing a role that translates into on-track results.
Contrasting Penske’s Campaign with Other Top Teams
While powerhouse organizations like Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) and Hendrick Motorsports (HMS) have recorded more total victories so far—five for JGR and four for HMS—their success is not evenly distributed. Both stables field four drivers each, yet only half of their drivers have reached victory lane in 2024. For HMS, William Byron and Kyle Larson have won races, leaving Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman without wins. At JGR, Christopher Bell and Denny Hamlin are responsible for the victories, while Chase Briscoe and Ty Gibbs are still seeking their first trips to victory lane this year.
In sharp contrast, Team Penske stands alone as the only Cup Series unit with every full-time driver having notched at least one win, proving widespread competitive performance. The Wood Brothers Racing entry of Josh Berry has also contributed, ensuring the Penske-affiliated teams are well-represented in the playoff field.
Penske’s Rising Stock in the 2024 Championship Picture
Although teams like HMS and JGR may have more race wins in total, Penske’s ability to get all of its drivers into victory lane sets it apart as a model of consistency and depth. Their combined performances and fast cars have moved them into the spotlight as potential championship favorites as the 2024 Cup Series continues. The coming months will reveal whether this momentum can be sustained, but for now, Penske’s early-season accomplishments have redefined the competitive landscape in NASCAR’s premier division.
