It was almost more entertaining reading the comments around the social networks about the third round, than the 3rd round was itself. Many media, fans and players are critical of the course and the leader board it has produced. That leader board features some relative unknowns which I think will hurt the ratings quite a bit.
Leaders
Brendan Steele and Jason Dufner share the lead going into the final round at -7. I watched them both closely on Saturday and both didn’t seem to feel many nerves. That is likely to change during the final round, when those who lack experience in those situations tend to melt down.
In The Mix
One shot back is HP Byron Nelson Championship winner and rookie Keegan Bradley. I watched Keegan closely at the Byron and I’m quite impressed with his maturity for being a rookie. And that win at the Byron was impressive, as the conditions were possibly the toughest of the entire PGA Tour season. The winning score was -3. What a story it would be for a rooking to notch two wins in his first year, one being a major.
Veterans Scott Verplank and Steve Stricker are definitely in striking range at -5 and -4 respectively. Stricker is capable of going very low, as he proved in his first round 63.
A large group is still in the mix at -2 which includes David Toms, Charl Schwartzel, Robert Karlsson, Adam Scott and John Senden. Should the leaders drop back a bit, which is likely, this group could easily produce a winner.
Related Links
PGA Championship round three leader board
PGA Championship final round TV schedule
HOGWire – Golf Industry News
