Eric Cole leads Charles Schwab Challenge after 63 round

Eric Cole holds a one-shot lead entering the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge as he seeks his first PGA Tour victory. The 37-year-old shot a season-best seven-under-par 63 on Saturday at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, to reach 12-under 198 for the tournament.

Cole’s round, which matched the best of the week, propelled him from five strokes off the pace into the outright lead. He carded six birdies against a single bogey on a day where firming conditions made scoring difficult. Ryan Gerard sits one stroke back after birdieing his final two holes to post a 68. Mac Meissner and reigning U.S. Open champion J.J. Spaun are tied for third at 10-under par.

This marks Cole’s 120th career start on the PGA Tour. Despite being named Rookie of the Year in 2023 and recording multiple runner-up finishes, including a playoff loss at that year’s Honda Classic, he has yet to secure a win. He will play in Sunday’s final pairing alongside Gerard and Meissner, teeing off at 12:55 p.m. ET.

Reflecting on his position, Cole acknowledged the challenge ahead. "It’s not going to be an easy day tomorrow, I know that from my experience," he said. "I know that it’s going to be...