Troy Merritt had strong credentials as a PGA Tour rookie, just not the hype.

Even though he set an NCAA record by winning five straight tournaments at Boise State, and last month went wire-to-wire at Q-school to earn his PGA Tour card, he was overlooked Thursday in Hawaii's Sony Open while playing next to 21-year-old Rickie Fowler.

If that wasn't enough, the standard-bearer had the wrong name on the sign - Merrick - which wasn't fixed for an hour.

By the end of the round, he was starting to make a name for himself.

One of four rookies who had never teed it up on the PGA Tour, the 24-year-old played with poise at Waialae for a 5-under 65 that gave him a share of the lead with Davis Love III, defending champion Zach Johnson, Ryan Palmer, Robert Allenby and John Merrick.

Ten other players, including Steve Stricker, were tied at 4-under.

•The Four Seasons Resort that hosts the annual Byron Nelson Championship is facing foreclosure. The club's general manager said the posting will not affect the property's daily operations. ... Neil Schietekat shot a 9-under 62 for the Joburg Open lead.