American Brandt Snedeker edged ahead of world No. 1 Rory McIlroy in the FedExCup playoff race by charging into a two-way tie for the lead in Saturday's third round of the elite Tour Championship.
On a tricky day for scoring at a sunny but breezy East Lake Golf Club, Snedeker matched the best score of the week, firing a flawless six-under-par 64 to join Britain's Justin Rose (68) at eightunder 202.
Overnight leader Jim Furyk had also been at eight under with two holes to play but he triplebogeyed the 17th, after hitting his tee shot into water, on the way to a 72 and a three-way tie for fourth at five under.
Level with Furyk were Masters champion Bubba Watson (70) and Northern Irishman McIlroy (68), who is seeking a fifth PGA Tour victory this year.
American Ryan Moore was alone in third at six under after carding a third-round 65 in the PGA Tour's fourth and final playoff event.
"It was probably one of the best rounds I've played this year," a beaming Snedeker said after covering the back nine in three-under 32 on a firm, fast-running layout.
"I drove it fantastic, hit a lot of quality iron shots and putted actually OK for me.
"To hit 17 of 18 greens in this wind on this golf course, you're striking your ball pretty good. I'm very excited about the standings going into tomorrow."
Snedeker was one of five players coming into the 30-man event knowing that victory today would automatically secure him FedExCup playoff honours and the mind-boggling bonus of $10 million.
Also in that quintet was FedExCup points leader McIlroy, who has been the game's most dominant player this year.
"It's going to be one of the most exciting Sundays of the year," McIlroy said of the final round.
"It's great to be in the mix. I'm only three back, so I'm excited about the prospect."
Twice winner Tiger Woods, who had battled to a 73 in Friday's second round, carded a 67 to climb into a four-way tie for seventh at four under.
"I'm only four back ... it looks like I've got a shot at it tomorrow," the former world No. 1 said after mixing four birdies with one bogey. "Just claw your way back into it."
