Joey Logano’s Playoff Prospects Under Scrutiny: Kyle Petty Sounds Alarm Bells
As the NASCAR playoffs loom on the horizon, all eyes should be on Joey Logano and his Team Penske crew. Known for their uncanny ability to shine when it matters most, this season, however, may tell a different story. Renowned commentator and former driver Kyle Petty has thrown a major curveball into the narrative, suggesting Logano could be in for a rough ride during this year’s postseason.
Historically, Team Penske has mastered the art of timing. Over the last three seasons, their drivers, particularly Logano, have appeared sluggish throughout the regular season only to transform into powerhouse competitors when the playoffs commence. Logano’s remarkable resurgence secured him titles in both 2022 and 2024, and fellow teammate Ryan Blaney clinched his championship in 2023. But this year, the script seems to be flipping.
At the conclusion of last year’s regular season, Logano boasted an impressive four top-fives and eight top-10 finishes, complemented by three playoff victories that ultimately earned him the coveted Cup Championship. Fast forward to this season, and the statistics tell a different tale: Logano has only managed three top-fives and seven top-10s. Petty’s unsettling observations reveal a stark contrast in performance compared to his teammate Blaney, who is making waves with a staggering nine top-fives and 13 top-10 finishes.
On Go PRN Live, Petty did not hold back in expressing his concerns about Logano’s current form. “We know that the #12 car, Ryan Blaney, has speed. It has speed week in and week out. I’ve just not seen speed from Joey,” Petty stated emphatically. He continued, “That is the one thing that concerns me about the #22 car. And the inconsistency of Austin Cindric when you look at him, but when you look at the #22 car of Joey Logano, they’ve just not.”
Petty’s criticism was pointed, highlighting that Logano’s team has struggled to find their footing, often finishing in the 28th or 29th positions. “When they’ve been in competition and able to run up front, they’ve not had enough to get the W. They’ve had enough to finish second, enough to finish in the top five, but not enough to get it. So, it doesn’t feel that way this year like maybe it has in the past,” he added, emphasizing the urgency of Logano’s situation.
Despite the bleak outlook, there remains a glimmer of hope for Team Penske. They are currently the only team with all drivers locked into the playoffs, each boasting at least one win. If history serves as a reliable guide, Logano and his teammates may yet find the spark they need in the final 10-race stretch leading up to the climax of the season.
As the regular-season finale approaches at Daytona International Speedway, the pressure is mounting for Logano, Blaney, and Austin Cindric. Will Logano rise to the occasion, or will this be a year where the playoff magic eludes him? One thing is certain—NASCAR fans are in for a thrilling and unpredictable ride as the postseason unfolds.
