Griffin and Schmid Lead as Scheffler Closes in at Colonial Challenge

FORT WORTH, Texas — Ben Griffin and Matti Schmid are tied for the lead heading into the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge after both shot 2-under 68 on Saturday. They stand at 13-under 197, four strokes ahead of the field, with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler lurking in the background.

After starting strong, Griffin and Schmid maintain their position despite mixed performances. Griffin’s round included a double bogey on No. 5 and a bogey on No. 6, but he rebounded with birdies on Nos. 8 and 10. Schmid faced a similar challenge, dropping back to 13 under after a bogey on the 11th, but he managed to recover with a birdie on the 16th.

Scheffler, who entered the day 10 strokes back, managed to shoot a 6-under 64, moving him to 7 under for the tournament. He experienced a rollercoaster back nine, making three bogeys but also scoring two late birdies. His performance showcased his potential to mount a comeback in Sunday’s final round.

Rickie Fowler, chasing his first win since 2023, is in third place at 9 under after shooting 67 on Saturday. Fowler expressed optimism about his game, stating, “It’s definitely been awhile… it hasn’t been very far off.” He noted his excitement about playing alongside the leaders in the final group on Sunday.

The conditions at Colonial Country Club were challenging, with windy weather making it difficult for players to maintain consistency. Griffin and Schmid started strong with birdies on the first three holes but struggled as the round progressed. Their play will need to recover for them to hold off challenges from Fowler and Scheffler, both capable of strong performances.

Looking ahead to Sunday, the wind and nerves could play a significant role, and both Griffin and Schmid are aware of the pressure to secure their first individual titles on the PGA Tour. The atmosphere at Colonial remains charged, with players eager to capitalize on any mistakes the leaders might make.