Tree-hugging Patton Kizzire takes lead at Silverado in FedEx Cup Fall opener

Patton Kizzire hugged a tree on the way to the first tee Friday as part of a mental exercise, then patiently worked his way around Silverado to take the lead into the weekend in the FedEx Cup Fall series opener. Working with a new mental coach who has him embracing a more relaxed and even approach, Kizzire shot a 7-under 65 for a one-stroke advantage over David Lipsky in the Procore Championship. Kizzire had seven birdies, six on the back nine, as he seeks his first victory on the PGA Tour since 2018.

Tree-hugging Patton Kizzire takes lead at Silverado in FedEx Cup Fall opener

Tree-hugging Patton Kizzire takes lead at Silverado in FedEx Cup Fall opener

Tree-hugging Patton Kizzire takes lead at Silverado in FedEx Cup Fall opener

Tree-hugging Patton Kizzire takes lead at Silverado in FedEx Cup Fall opener

Tree-hugging Patton Kizzire takes lead at Silverado in FedEx Cup Fall opener