Rickie Fowler takes control of Honda Classic after Round 3

Alec Brzezinski

Rickie Fowler takes control of Honda Classic after Round 3 image

Rickie Fowler was in control of all facets of his game after Saturday's round (local time) at the Honda Classic to grab a four-shot lead entering the final round.

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PGA National is supposed to be a tough course with the daunting "Bear Trap" gobbling up golf balls in its many water hazards. Fowler, however, has been unaffected by its difficulty, having now shot three straight rounds in the 60s.

Fowler shot a bogey-free 5-under 65 on Saturday after two straight 4-under 66s. He has not won since last January on the European Tour.

England's Tyrrell Hatton is Fowler's closest competitor. The 25-year-old rising star is currently 18th in the world ranking and nine under for the tournament. He had six birdies and two bogeys in a 4-under 66 in Round 3.

Emiliano Grillo and Sean O'Hair lead a group tied for third at seven under after shooting five under 65s on Saturday. Martin Kaymer, Wesley Bryan and Gary Woodland are also at seven under.

Major champions Jimmy Walker and Zach Johnson headline a group of 12 players at six under. 

Sergio Garcia shot up the leaderboard early with a four under 66 to get back to five under.

Defending champion Adam Scott played his way out of contention with a one over 71 to fall back to two under. He beat Garcia by one shot last year.

Despite Fowler's big lead, Sunday's final round should provide plenty of intrigue with one of the most difficult closing stretches on Tour. Either way, Hatton is one to watch as he ascends into stardom.

Alec Brzezinski