Two of Roger Penske’s drivers suffered in Darlington. During the Southern 500, Joey Logano battled handling issues in the first stage, jostling to get into the top 15 in the following segments. Eventually, he could finish 20th. Similarly, Ryan Blaney fumbled with a flat right front tire, damage to the splitter, and pit road issues that landed him in 18th place. Despite this two-spot difference, Dale Jr. can see a gaping disparity between the two drivers.

Joey Logano is the reigning Cup Series champion. Based on a fluke assumption, Logano may not win this year since 2025 is an odd year – he won in 2018, 2022, and 2024 previously. However, Dale Jr. is more convinced, as Logano’s point scenario also does not look good.

Dale Jr. picks his championship favorite

Both Joey Logano and Ryan Blan

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