LOS ANGELES — Illinois senior Charlie Danielson already had a dream week even before the Northern Trust Open started Thursday.
He won the collegiate qualifier Monday to earn a spot in his first PGA Tour event. He played a practice round with former Illini golfers Steve Stricker and Scott Langley. He saw Jordan Spieth at his hotel. He rode an elevator with Adam Scott.
And then he played like he belonged at Riviera, making two late birdies for a 4-under 67 that left him one shot off the early lead.
"I just went out and tried to enjoy the day," Danielson said.