NASCAR Head 2 Head: Chase Elliott vs. Ryan Blaney

Blaney’s 2016 Summary

It is what it is

Through no fault of their own, the Wood Brothers’ No. 21 Ford did not have the benefits of one of NASCAR’s 36 charters to begin the 2016 season, meaning that they would have to show up and qualify in on speed at each race.  True to its reputation, the team didn’t complain or argue that the rules were unfair, they accepted the situation gracefully and went about their business.  Through the first 24 races of the season, that hasn’t been an issue.  The team is among the best-prepared in the garage on a weekly basis.

Results show talent and potential

Ryan finished in the Top 10 in half of the seasons first 13 races, through Charlotte in May.  Ryan impressively completed all of the laps at tough tracks for any rookie such as Martinsville, Bristol, Talladega and Dover.  The early part of the season was capped by a fifth-place finish at Kansas in May.

Following Charlotte, Blaney began a stretch of races that were punctuated with up and down weeks, but he established himself as a solid mid-teens competitor each week, give or take some spots.  Strong runs were earned at Pocono (twice,) Daytona and Loudon.  The Wood Brothers’ preparation combined with Blaney’s composed demeanor allow this team to focus on the tasks at hand each week and go about getting their business done.

The Penske Way

The team’s alliance with Team Penske has certainly contributed to the strong performances and preparedness each week.  Roger expects that from those with whom he does business, and rightfully so – he’s earned it over the course of a 50-year company history of doing things the right way.  It should come as no surprise then that Ryan scored his season-high finish (4th) at the most recent event held at Michigan, a track built and once owned by Penske himself.  Similar to Elliott, perhaps Ryan will leverage the success into solid performances at Darlington and Richmond to secure a spot in the Chase.

What lies ahead

Make no doubt, there is some work to do if this team is to make the Chase.  With two races and a maximum of 90 points available in the next two weeks, Blaney is 71 points below the at-large cutoff.  Winning at either of the last two venues is his most realistic chance to join the party.

Next: The Verdict