SILVIS, Ill. — Doug Ghim has made a remarkable impact at the John Deere Classic, holing out from the fairway for eagle for the second consecutive day. This impressive feat propelled him to a 3-under 68, securing a one-shot lead as the tournament heads into the weekend. This marks Ghim's first 36-hole lead in his six-year career on the PGA Tour.

Ghim's stellar performance included a 179-yard eagle on the par-4 15th, following his impressive hole-out on the short par-4 sixth during the opening round. "Holing out two days in a row is always nice," Ghim remarked. "It's been a couple of years since I holed out from the fairway, so to get two back-to-back days is great."

Despite a challenging final hole where he hit into the trees and missed an 18-foot putt for bogey, Ghim finished at 12-under 130, maintaining his lead. Defending champion Davis Thompson (63) and Max Homa (68) are among the five players within one shot of the lead.

The tournament has seen a mix of drama and skill, with high stakes as players vie for the top spot. Thompson, who played in the morning, reached 11-under 131, aiming to become the first repeat winner since Steve Stricker's three consecutive wins from 2009 to 2011.

Homa, tied with Ghim late in the afternoon, faced challenges with dry and crusty greens but remains in contention. "I don't think much changes. Just play the golf course," Homa said. "You're going to have to shoot really low. Somebody can go out there and shoot 11 under and jump everybody."

As the tournament progresses, 12 players are separated by just two shots, setting the stage for an exciting weekend. The cut line was set at 5-under 137, with Rickie Fowler and Jake Knapp narrowly making the cut.

Ghim remains focused, acknowledging the need to aim for a 20-under-par score to secure a win. "I don't feel like I'm in the lead," Ghim said. "I'm just happy that I get to be teeing off late tomorrow in contention."

The John Deere Classic continues to be a platform for emerging talents and seasoned players alike, promising thrilling moments and fierce competition.