Erik Compton opened with a round of 65 at the McGladrey Classic to earn a share of the lead with three other players in Georgia.
The 35-year-old, who finished second behind Martin Kaymer at the US Open earlier this year, offered a sign of things to come with birdies on the first two holes, and he continued his impressive form to reach five-under-par.
Brian Harman carded four birdies on the back nine to record his own round of 65, while Will MacKenzie recovered from a double-bogey on his seventh hole to join the leaders.
Michael Thompson was also in fine form at the Seaside Course as he holed six birdies to make it to five-under.
Pre-tournament favourite Webb Simpson is two shots behind the leading quartet alongside Ryder Cup teammate Matt Kuchar, while Padraig Harrington started his tournament with a disappointing round of 71.
Callum Mulvihill
