Charley Hoffman and Rico Hoey shot 63s to take the interim lead at The American Express at La Quinta Country Club in California.
Hoffman birdied five of the final seven holes on the Nicklaus Tournament course. One of the three holes was used for the event and Hoey had eight birdies in 10 holes starting from hole 4 on the same layout.
Hoffman, who included two eagles in his round, is seeking his first PGA Tour win since 2016 after struggling with back injuries in recent years.
“Three years ago I wasn’t healthy and I wasn’t a good golfer,” Hoffman said.
“I feel good right now. When I wake up in the morning, I feel completely different.”
“When I’m healthy, when the weather is warm, I don’t think I can beat anyone in the world. If it’s cold and my back is bad, I don’t think I can beat anyone in the world.”
Hoey added: “This is my second year on tour, so I’m still starstruck with Hoffman, Cantlay, Rickie and so many others.
“For me, just getting my name out there and continuing to connect with them is really cool, so that’s all I’m trying to do.”
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The pair topped the leaderboard at 16 under par, ahead of Austria’s Sepp Straka, America’s Mark Hubbard (both shot 64s on the Pete Dye Stadium course) and compatriot Justin Lower.
Australia’s Jason Day and America’s JJ Spaun were one step behind, while last week’s Sony Open winner Nick Taylor and Rickey, who shot 62 on the Nicklaus Course, were a step behind. A 13-under group including Rickie Fowler followed.
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