Column: Blaney steps into leadership role at Team Penske

Ryan Blaney nears the finish line and the checkered flag, winng the NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Daytona International Speedway, Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, in Daytona Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/David Graham)

Ryan Blaney stands by the trophy after winning the NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Daytona International Speedway, Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, in Daytona Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Ryan Blaney celebrates his win after the NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Michigan International Speedway, Sunday, Aug. 22, 2021, in Brooklyn, Mich. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Ryan Blaney stands next to the winner's trophy after the NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Michigan International Speedway, Sunday, Aug. 22, 2021, in Brooklyn, Mich. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Ryan Blaney, left, celebrates in Victory Lane with crew members after winning the NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Daytona International Speedway, Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, in Daytona Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)