Two years after taking the first-round lead at the Wyndham Championship, Beau Hossler is at it again, but this time he's not alone at the top.
Beau Hossler has taken a one-stroke lead into the final playoff push of the Wyndham Championship, but Sahith Theegala and Ben James are hot on his heels. Hossler signed for a 9-under 61 to command the lead, with Theegala and James both recording 62s.
Hossler's iron play was the standout aspect of his round, with the 9-year PGA Tour veteran calling it the best of his career. He led the field in iron play, gaining more than four strokes with his scoring clubs.
Theegala, meanwhile, needed only 10 putts on his front nine to turn in 7-under 28. He made par on his next eight holes before a birdie on the last put the finishing touches on his 62.
Theegala has been on a roll, with a streak of 13 straight made cuts and a ceiling that many have been waiting for him to show. He entered the week riding that streak and may have matched it with a strong performance in the first round.
Theegala's goal has shifted from top 50 to top 30 in the FedEx Cup standings, and he feels secure but not guaranteed. He's focused on giving himself the best chance to make the Tour Championship.
A win for Hossler would secure playing privileges in both the short and long term, and end a mini skid of missing the postseason entirely the last two seasons. He's still searching for his first victory in his 9-year PGA Tour career.
Hossler's lead is comfortable, but the competition is fierce. Theegala and James are just one stroke behind, and the final playoff push is set to be an exciting finish to the tournament.
The players will turn the page quickly, with one of the final groups out on the golf course late on Thursday. The tension is high, and the players are juggling the margins between postseason projections.
The Wyndham Championship is set to continue on Friday, with the players vying for a spot in the playoffs. The competition is fierce, and the players will need to bring their A-game if they want to make it to the next round.
Source: CBS