Denny McCarthy putts way into RSM Classic contention despite double bogey

ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. – Denny McCarthy made a mess of the eighth hole Saturday at the RSM Classic. There was a drive into a native area, a penalty stroke, a poor chip and putt that all added up to a double bogey-6.

He was still smiling.

McCarthy’s third-round 65 moved him into a tie for 12th place and within five shots of the lead thanks to a brilliant opening nine holes on the Seaside Course’s greens.

McCarthy, who started his round on No. 10, made a 29-footer for birdie at No. 11, 7-footer for birdie at No. 13, 31-footer for birdie at No. 14, 23-footer for eagle at No. 15 and capped that run with a 23-footer for birdie at the 16th hole. He picked up more than five shots in strokes gained:…