U.S. Open update: morning players go low. Dougherty leads, Garcia blows up, Tiger is close

OAKMONT, Pa. - Morning tee times are finishing up around noon and scores are lower than expected at this year’s U.S. Open.

A half-inch of rain last night and overcast skies have also prevented the course from firming up too fast. Morning players have gotten the break so far, none more so than Nick Dougherty, who leads at 2-under in the clubhouse.

“It’s playing as easy as it could be,” said Dougherty. “The storm softened it up nicely. The morning players are certainly getting the better half of it.”

Bubba Watson took advantage of an early tee time and soft conditions and carded an even 70.

“(The rain) didn’t slow the greens down, but it made them softer,” he said.

Sergio Garcia didn’t take advantage however, carding a birdie-less 79.

Tiger Woods is finishing up now, 1-over on the 18th green…