Bob Pockrass
FOX NASCAR Insider
LAS VEGAS — In just three weeks, Joey Logano transitioned from being out of the playoffs to securing a chance to compete for the NASCAR Cup Series title at Phoenix Raceway.
Last week, Logano believed he had been eliminated from the playoffs at Charlotte. However, after the race, he discovered that Alex Bowman had failed postrace weight requirements, allowing Logano to advance to the semifinal round. Utilizing a fuel-mileage strategy, he clinched victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Sunday.
Logano recalled sharing a laugh with his wife in victory lane.
“Can you believe that just one week ago, I walked out of our bedroom and said, ‘You’re not going to believe this,’” Logano recounted. “And now, a week later, I told her, ‘You won’t believe it, but we won this one.’”
Entering the Round of 8 (the semifinal stage in NASCAR), Logano had the lowest points. Although at least one driver will qualify as a finalist based on points, winning a race guarantees a playoff driver an automatic entry. The four drivers who reach the championship round will compete in the season finale on November 10 at Phoenix Raceway, with the top finisher among them claiming the title.
“Our regular season wasn’t the best, but when the playoffs begin, the 22 team always shows up,” stated two-time Cup champion Logano, who finished 15th in the standings while the other seven drivers in the Round of 8 were all in the top seven.
Although Christopher Bell believed he would celebrate in victory lane after leading 155 laps with a dominant vehicle, Logano managed to complete the final 69 laps of the green-flag run without stopping for fuel, while many in the field chose to pit. Logano had been informed he would be one lap short but successfully conserved enough fuel to overtake Daniel Suarez with just six laps to go.
“My crew chief told me we’re one lap short,” Logano remarked. “Saving one lap across that many laps isn’t too difficult.”
The opening race of the three-race round (with Homestead and Martinsville still to come) was challenging for the eight drivers still in the running for the title. Tyler Reddick, Chase Elliott, and Ryan Blaney were involved in a crash on Lap 89, while Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson faced difficulties on pit road.
Insights from Las Vegas:
Reddick Flips, Elliott Frustrated
Reddick, who won the first stage, attempted to make a pass on the outside to create a three-wide situation when contact occurred between Chase Elliott (in the middle) and Martin Truex Jr., resulting in Reddick flipping in the trioval grass.
Reddick was unable to continue after what he later regretted, despite believing there was enough space for the maneuver.
“I think being aggressive is necessary on these mile-and-a-half tracks, but it cost me today,” Reddick explained. “The 19 [of Truex] wiggled up into the 9 [of Elliott], and we all just ran out of room.”
“That’s all there is to it.”
Elliott seemed to have mixed emotions following the incident.
“I completely understand, but there wasn’t much room…”
“In the corner,” Elliott remarked. “At that moment in the race, it was quite a gamble for him to rely on me and Martin to notice he had a significant run up top.
“It was certainly aggressive, but who am I to judge? We’re all fighting for a championship here.”
Elliott suggested that his car might have been the best he’s had at Vegas in recent years.
“I was just trying to navigate out of the situation, but I was a bit too late at that point,” Elliott stated. “It’s frustrating.”
Reddick’s car landed on all fours as he managed to drive it to pit road, but the suspension and brakes were severely damaged.
“I saw a bit of grass and some of the sky,” Reddick commented regarding the flip.
Logano benefits with some assistance?
Ryan Blaney also found himself entangled in the wreck involving Reddick and ended up several laps down while following Logano in the closing laps.
Bell believed Blaney played a defensive role for Logano — and he was fine with that.
“It’s a fair game, and props to [Blaney],” Bell expressed. “Logano winning was likely not ideal for Blaney since they’re in a points battle to secure their spot.”
“Penske clinched the win and got one car in. They executed it well.”
Blaney dismissed the notion that he was obstructing Bell from catching him.
“The 20 [of Bell] didn’t reach me until the last corner,” Blaney stated. “I don’t understand why you would think I’m blocking him.”
“I was running high. I’m not interfering with anyone’s air.”
He probably should have reached the 22 sooner. Had he done so, overtaking me would have been quite easy, but he was a half lap late.”
Issues for Larson and Hamlin’s pit crews
Both Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson experienced slow pit stops that resulted in the loss of several positions throughout the race. In one instance, Larson had to make a second pit stop and subsequently went a lap down.
Hamlin ended the race in eighth place, while Larson finished eleventh.
“It just wasn’t a clean day,” Hamlin remarked. “That pretty much sums it up. These things happen, and we’ll just do our best to secure a decent finish.”
Larson shared a similar perspective.
“We made the best of the situation,” Larson noted. “[It] could have turned out much worse.”
At least Larson can take comfort in the fact that he leaves the race 35 points above the cutoff line, whereas Hamlin finds himself 27 points behind.
“We aren’t performing as strongly as we did earlier this season,” Hamlin acknowledged. “Our execution isn’t as clean as it used to be.”
“We’ve got to improve, head to Homestead, and aim for a victory.”
Bob Pockrass covers NASCAR for FOX Sports. With decades of experience in motorsports journalism, he has covered over 30 Daytona 500s and has worked with ESPN, Sporting News, NASCAR Scene magazine, and The (Daytona Beach) News-Journal. You can follow him on Twitter @bobpockrass.
Get more from NASCAR Cup Series Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
Joey Logano Turns Fortune Around with Las Vegas Victory, Securing Playoff Spot for NASCAR Cup Series Title
Overview of Joey Logano’s Recent Performance
Joey Logano’s recent success at the NASCAR Cup Series race in Las Vegas has not only elevated his performance but also secured him a coveted playoff spot for the 2023 season. After facing several challenges earlier in the season, Logano’s win at the South Point 400 marked a pivotal moment in his pursuit of the championship title.
The Road to Victory: Key Moments in the Race
Logano showcased his driving prowess throughout the race, capitalizing on a series of critical moments that ultimately led to his victory:
- Strong Qualifying Performance: Logano’s weekend started on a high note, securing a top grid position.
- Strategic Pit Stops: His team’s timely pit strategies allowed him to maintain track position and tire advantage.
- Late-Race Dominance: Logano displayed exceptional control and skill in the final laps, fending off competitors.
Impact of the Victory on Joey Logano’s Season
The victory in Las Vegas significantly alters the trajectory of Logano’s season. Here’s how this win contributes to his overall performance:
1. Securing a Playoff Spot
By clinching the win, Logano not only earned valuable points but also secured his place in the NASCAR playoffs, enhancing his chances for the championship title.
2. Boosting Team Morale
The victory revitalizes the entire Team Penske crew, boosting morale and confidence heading into the playoffs. A successful outing can set the tone for the remaining races.
3. Momentum Shift
Winning at Las Vegas serves as a significant momentum shift for Logano. Confidence gained from this victory can translate into improved performances in subsequent races.
Critical Factors Behind Logano’s Success
Logano’s success in Las Vegas can be attributed to several critical factors:
1. Experience on the Track
Logano’s extensive experience at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway played a crucial role in his strategic decision-making during the race.
2. Team Collaboration
The synergy between Logano and his team was palpable. Their ability to communicate effectively about tire management and pit strategies was essential for the win.
3. Adapting to Conditions
Logano demonstrated remarkable adaptability to changing track conditions, making real-time adjustments to his driving style.
Benefits of Winning in the NASCAR Cup Series
The implications of Logano’s victory extend beyond just point standings:
- Increased Sponsorship Opportunities: Success on the track often leads to enhanced visibility for sponsors.
- Fan Engagement: High-profile wins like this one increase fan interaction and loyalty.
- Historic Legacy: Victories contribute to a driver’s legacy, influencing future opportunities in the sport.
Practical Tips for Aspiring NASCAR Drivers from Logano’s Victory
Logano’s triumph provides valuable lessons for aspiring NASCAR drivers:
1. Focus on Team Dynamics
Building strong relationships within your team is vital. Collaboration can lead to better performance on race day.
2. Emphasize Technical Skills
Continuous improvement of driving skills and technical knowledge of the car enhances performance in races.
3. Mental Resilience
The ability to stay calm under pressure is crucial. Learning to manage emotions can define race outcomes.
Case Study: Previous NASCAR Champions and Their Comebacks
Logano’s story is reminiscent of other NASCAR champions who have turned their seasons around:
| Driver | Year | Notable Comeback Race | Final Standing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jimmie Johnson | 2016 | Chicagoland | Champion |
| Kyle Busch | 2015 | Phoenix | Champion |
| Brad Keselowski | 2012 | Pocono | Champion |
First-Hand Experience: Reflections from Joey Logano Post-Race
After the race, Logano reflected on his performance, sharing insights on his mindset and the strategies that led to his victory:
“It feels incredible to turn our luck around. Our team worked tirelessly, and to see it pay off like this means the world to me. I believe we can carry this momentum into the playoffs.”
This statement encapsulates the resilience and determination that are hallmarks of successful NASCAR drivers.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Logano and Team Penske?
Looking ahead, Logano and his team are focused on maintaining this positive momentum as they approach the playoffs:
1. Analyzing Competitors
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of their competitors will be critical for strategizing in upcoming races.
2. Fine-Tuning Performance
Continuous improvements in car setup and driver performance will be crucial to remain competitive.
3. Building on Success
Logano aims to build upon this victory, using it as a stepping stone for further success in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Conclusion
Joey Logano’s victory at Las Vegas is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and strategy in the NASCAR Cup Series. As he heads into the playoffs, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he capitalizes on this pivotal moment in his season.
