Bryson DeChambeau a one-man show as he leads U.S. Open by 3 shots

Bryson DeChambeau ducked outside the ropes to a private area in the woods, flat on his back as trainers worked on hips that felt too tight. Moments later, he unleashed a swing that sent his drive 347 yards, leaving a wedge to set up birdie and another fist pump.

DeChambeau delivered power, birdies and endless entertainment Saturday in the U.S. Open. He turned Pinehurst No. 2 into a one-man show with a 3-under 67 and built a three-shot lead as he moved closer to another U.S. Open title.

"Just going to say it. Tomorrow it's the same quote I've said all week: Trying to have boring golf," DeChambeau said. "Middle of the greens never moves."

There was little boring about his performance before a sunbaked and delirious gallery at Pinehurst that ended a sweltering day by chanting his name. He has always loved the attention from fans, even more when they love him back.

"Yeah, it was amazing. I can't thank them enough. It was a blessing," he said. "Man, they riled me up."

The feeling was clearly mutual.

At stake is a chance to capture a second U.S. Open title with a reimagined game — still powerful as ever — and a physique that isn't quite the "Incredible Bulk" he was at Winged Foot in 2020.

Still ahead is a final round with Rory McIlroy (69), Patrick Cantlay (70) and Matthieu Pavon (69) three shots behind and all looking capable of giving him a run for the silver trophy. 

Corey Conners of Listowel, Ont., is tied for ninth at even par and not out of the hunt. Taylor Pendrith of Richmond Hill, Ont., is tied for 12th at 1 over. Adam Svensson of Surrey, B.C., is tied for 47th at 7 over.

"I love the test that Pinehurst is presenting, and you've got to focus and concentrate on every single shot out there," McIlroy said. "It's what a