The O’Reilly Auto Parts (Xfinity) Series finale at Phoenix delivered a shocking twist for JR Motorsports’ rising phenom Connor Zilisch. He entered the race having already secured the Regular Season Championship and an astonishing 10 race victories. His consistency was nearly flawless, including an 18-race top-5 streak that defined the season’s middle stretch. However, when the lights were brightest at Phoenix, Zilisch confessed he was “never the best car,” struggling with grip in his No. 88 Chevrolet during the final long green-flag run.

Following the final pit stop under caution, Zilisch executed a masterful restart to seize the lead, trying to fend off his friend and rival Jesse Love’s relentless pursuit. However, with just 24 laps remaining in the 200-lap race, Love closed the ga

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