Phil Mickelson opens strong with 67

— -- MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Phil Mickelson came to the St. Jude Classic wanting to tune up for the U.S. Open at Pinehurst by finishing strong.

He did just that Thursday.

Mickelson shot a 3-under 67, birdieing three of his final four holes in windy conditions before a thunderstorm softened up TPC Southwind. It was his first round in the 60s since the third round at the Wells Fargo Championship. He hadn't shot below 70 since.

He missed the cut at The Players Championship and tied for 49th last week in the Memorial following a visit from FBI agents and lingering questions about an insider-trading investigation. Lefty hasn't won in 19 events dating to the Open Championship and is among the players in Tennessee tuning up for Pinehurst.

"I did exactly what I need to do and some momentum that I need heading into the U.S. Open," Mickelson said. "Tomorrow's round, the same thing. Finish strong and play a good round."

Ben Crane's 7-under 63 leads the tournament, which was suspended because of darkness with 60 players unable to finish the round.  Robert Garrigus withdrew after hurting his wrist in the 18th fairway. He had a 79 that included three bogeys, a double and an 8 on the par-4 17th.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.