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NASCAR America: Pressure building as Joey Logano seeks to earn playoff spot (video)

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Joey Logano may have won at Watkins Glen in 2015, but execution is crucial this time around if he wants to make it into the playoffs.

All but needing a win to make the playoffs, Joey Logano has five races left to do so, starting with Sunday’s event at Watkins Glen International.

Logano, who has made it to the championship race in two of the last three years, still has favorable tracks for him before the playoffs begin next month.

“I know I’ve heard him say that this weekend presents his best opportunity to win,’' Dale Jarrett said Friday on NASCAR America. “I also think that Bristol and Richmond present him opportunities, but the sooner you can get it out of the way, the better.’'

Slugger Labbe said it’s not just Logano who is under pressure.

“I think some pressure is on the team,’' Labbe said on NASCAR America. “They’ve never arrived at Watkins Glen in the past needing a win ... The thing the team has to do is not panic.’'

Labbe also said that crew chief Todd Gordon “has to call a perfect race.’'

Thirteen drivers have claimed a playoff spot with victories, leaving three spots open. Those three spots are owned by Chase Elliott, Jamie McMurray and Matt Kenseth. Logano is 69 points behind Kenseth for the final playoff spot.

For more on what Logano faces, watch the video above.