If the 2023 NASCAR season featured a full-season format, [autotag]Ryan Blaney[/autotag] would have undoubtedly been out of the championship picture by the final race. Instead, Blaney finished in second place at Phoenix Raceway and claimed his first career NASCAR Cup Series championship. It was an incredible run as the Team Penske driver had three straight top-2 finishes.
Blaney’s first Cup Series title shows the promise of NASCAR’s playoff format, which was introduced in 2014. Some people may not like the comparison of NASCAR to stick-and-ball sports; however, this was very reminiscent of the Arizona Diamondbacks’ run to the World Series in 2023. Two underdog stories that showed little reason to suggest a championship berth during the season.
This is why the playoff format is good. To win a NASCAR championship, a driver needs to show up when the races matter the most. Sure, the previous formats of cruising over the course of 10 to 30 races might be the norm for core NASCAR fans but this format rewards success too. Why should a driver deserve a championship if they can’t show up when it matters?
Blaney survived through pressure-filled situations en route to his championship. It may not be a popular opinion but that might be more impressive than a 36-race points system. Gone are the days of a full-season format as NASCAR has evolved into a modern-era American sport. Despite whatever people say, this is a good thing.
The final lap moment Ryan @Blaney became a #NASCAR Cup CHAMPION! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/GwEtLZnnzs
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) November 5, 2023
Every other sport has a playoff system that rewards teams for showing up. NASCAR shouldn’t be any different as it provides both entertainment and worthy champions. NASCAR president Steve Phelps said it the best at the annual “State of the Sport” address at Phoenix Raceway in November 2023.
“It’s an incredible, incredible playoff system that rewards the best drivers in our sport,” Phelps said.
Many may not agree as the one-race shootout is not their cup of tea. However, Blaney is a major example of why NASCAR’s playoff system is a positive for the sport. The driver of the No. 12 car was better than anyone to close out the season. NASCAR’s playoff system is not perfect but Blaney’s title shows why the foundation provides great promise to everyone involved.
[lawrence-related id=3843]