Fowler contending while 'shaking some cobwebs' at Shriners Hospitals Open

Rickie Fowler is in contention in his first event since September's Ryder Cup, firing 68-67 in the opening two rounds of the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open in Las Vegas, despite not having his sharpest game.

"Shaking some cobwebs and some rust off," Fowler told reporters, according to Will Gray of GolfChannel. "I feel like we're off to a solid start these first two days. Like I said, after basically coming off not playing a whole lot of golf, I'm happy where we're at."

The 29-year-old entered Saturday's third round six shots behind leader and former Oklahoma State teammate Peter Uihlein.

Even not in his best form, Fowler is having an impressive week with his iron play, gaining nearly 3.5 strokes on approach shots through two rounds.

"It's nice to get some rust off. There's still a little bit more that needs to get shaken off," Fowler said. "I'm happy with where we are. Get some putts to go in and we'll be in a great spot for Sunday."

Fowler is also in action next week at the Mayakoba Golf Classic in Mexico.