Ryan Blaney‘s recent NASCAR playoff performance has drawn widespread attention, especially after his decisive win at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, where he demonstrated exceptional skill in one of the season‘s most crucial races. Blaney’s standout success has also prompted commentary regarding Team Penske’s ability to thrive under pressure, with fellow competitor Joey Logano’s playoff history entering the conversation due to critics’ ongoing doubts.
Blaney and Team Penske Defy Playoff Expectations
Blaney, who triumphed in the NASCAR Cup Series race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, expressed his disbelief at how frequently pundits and critics discount Joey Logano’s playoff prowess, despite robust credentials. Logano, known for his resilience in high-stakes situations, boasts an impressive record with 15 playoff victories, the most among currently active NASCAR drivers. In the 2024 playoffs, Logano secured wins in the Atlanta Round of 16 and the Round of 8 at Las Vegas, earning his spot in the Championship 4.
Blaney pointed out the underlying strength of Logano and his team, drawing from his own experience competing against them in the previous season’s championship pursuit. He noted the intensity of playoff conditions, from financial pressure to fierce competition, but affirmed that the fundamental rules governing success remain unchanged. When speaking on the Dale Jr. Download regarding external perceptions of Logano and his team, Blaney said:
“Yeah, I mean it doesn’t surprise me I mean, I know those guys are gonna be even if they don’t have the year that people think is impressive through the regular season you know, they’re gonna just get better and better… it blows my mind honestly of the outside world that doubts that duo of like no no, yeah, write them off. No, they’re gonna be there and they’re gonna be really really good.”
This direct acknowledgment underscores the rivalry and mutual respect between Blaney and Logano, as well as the intensity that the playoffs bring for top drivers in the series.
Blaney Dominates at New Hampshire, Securing Key Milestone
Ryan Blaney’s victory at New Hampshire Motor Speedway was not just another win—it was a pivotal moment in his playoff journey. By leading 116 laps and finishing ahead of Josh Berry, Blaney notched his debut victory at the venue, marking his third career win. The commanding performance made him the first driver to secure a spot in the Round of 8 during the current playoff run, confirming Team Penske’s ability to elevate their game at critical points in the season.
This win also continued Blaney’s streak of top playoff finishes, highlighting his strategic race management and competitiveness among the sport’s elite. As other drivers and teams faced mounting pressure, Blaney’s consistency became a focal point in discussions about championship contention and the tenacity required to excel under NASCAR’s demanding postseason format.
Special Recognition: Michael Jordan’s Gift Lights Up Loudon Weekend
During the Mobil 1 301 race weekend at New Hampshire, Blaney revealed a unique off-track moment—a long-awaited gift from NBA legend Michael Jordan. After over half a year of friendly persistence, Blaney received his first pair of Jordans. He wore the iconic shoes during practice sessions, noting how the distinct soles required a period of adjustment. Sharing his excitement, Blaney stated:
“I had my first pair of Jordans this weekend. I’ve been bugging Michael Jordan for a pair for probably six months and finally got them sent to me, wore them for the first time this weekend in practice. The soles were a little different, so I had to spend about 10, 15 laps in practice, kind of getting used to the different soles on them,” he said via Youtube/NASCAR on Fox [5:51 onwards]
This lighthearted moment added a personal layer to a weekend already marked by high achievement, further cementing Blaney’s status as a rising figure both on and off the track. His playoff run, symbolic shoe debut, and personal interactions with legendary figures in sports culture underscore the unique crossroads where NASCAR’s competitive drama meets the wider world of athletic celebrity.
Blaney’s Playoff Surge Redefines Championship Conversation
Blaney’s New Hampshire victory solidified his position among the playoff frontrunners, marking his third consecutive top-five finish during the high-stakes postseason rounds. The momentum gathered by Blaney stands as a testament to his adaptability, technical skill, and capacity for overcoming external doubt. Meanwhile, Joey Logano’s enduring playoff record reminds observers of Team Penske’s persistent presence in championship battles, despite periodic skepticism from critics and analysts.
Looking ahead, both Ryan Blaney and Joey Logano are set to shape the course of the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series, with their performances at venues like Atlanta, Las Vegas, and New Hampshire serving as key reference points for future races. Their stories illustrate how determination, strategic unity, and the ability to rise above external opinions continue to define success on racing’s biggest stages.
It blows @Blaney's mind when people write Joey Logano & Paul Wolfe off. 🤯 @DaleJr | @Tjmajors pic.twitter.com/M3dwdBo6I8
— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) September 24, 2025
