GRAEME McDOWELL could be heading for his best finish of the season after shooting a one-over par round of 71 to share second spot in the WGC Bridgestone Invitational in Akron, Ohio.
The Northern Irishman is well placed as he seeks his first victory since capturing last year's French Open.
If he does triumph it would see the current World No.60 ending his season adopting 'Plan A' rather than having to settle with 'Plan B'.
"Plan A is the FedEx Cup Play-Offs and B is no Play-Offs and play more back in Europe, and maybe a bit of the Fall Series to start the '15/'16 PGA Tour season but I would rather is be Plan A," he said.
"The good thing there is loads of great golf to play which is nice and I am starting to play a bit better, and I want to naturally play more golf.
"It's great to be also playing four rounds this week going into a major knowing that I was going to be testing myself this week, so that has been key.
"The idea of just playing two rounds and going home before a major is never good, so this is a big week for me and it's already looking good for me which is even nicer."
And while McIlroy continues to tease the golfing establishment despite the PGA of America releasing the groupings for next week's season-ending major, McDowell believes the World No.1 will only tee-up at Whistling Straits if he feels he's ready.
"Rory certainly looks as though he could play next week but it is then if such a hike around that golf course," said McDowell.
"Whistling Straits as far as demanding walks go, it is right up there. There's potholes and side slopes. It's a tough walk. But then Rory's a fit kid.He'll come back when he's ready.
"But certainly, his golf swing looks all right."
American Jim Furky shot a 66 to move well clear of the field at eight-under par, and as he looks to make amends in letting slip victory at Firestone three years ago.
Bathgate's Stephen Gallacher bounced back with a 10-stroke better effort posting five birdies in a four under par 67 in contrast to his starting 77.
Meanwhile, Martin Laird will travel to Whistling Straits as PGA Championship first reserve and hoping to join five other Scots teeing-up in the final major of the year.
Organisers are keeping two spots open for the winner of both the Bridgestone Invitational and the PGA Tour's Barracuda Championship in Las Vegas.
If the winner of either event is already exempt then Laird will gain entry into his fifth straight PGA.
Of course, Laird could also take the place of McIlroy should he not tee-up just as fellow Scot Russell Knox did when McIlroy withdrew from last month's Open.
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