(NEXSTAR) — Despite a record-setting season, rookie Connor Zilisch came up short in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship, taking third place as Jesse Love took the checkered flag and with it, the championship victory at Phoenix Raceway.

Love became the first driver in the series to have bookend victories, winning both the opening race at Daytona and the championship race.

"It doesn't really feel real yet, obviously, I had to click into a mindset I've never clicked into in my life," Love said. "I haven't really let it all out yet, but at some point it's gonna feel real to me."

It was a tough night for JR Motorsports, home to 75% of the motorists vying for this year's championship.

It was an even tougher night for Connor Zilisch, unquestionably the fan-favorite heading into Saturday's

See Full Page