2024 American Express leaderboard, scores: Sam Burns fires bogey-free 61 to command solo lead after Round 2

The American flirted with a 59 during his second round on the Nicklaus Tournament Course

Nothing could stop players from piling on the birdies in the second round of the 2024 American Express. La Quinta Country Club, the Nicklaus Tournament Course and the Stadium Course all played to an average around 4-under par, with the Nicklaus Tournament Course surrendering the round of the week to 36-hole leader Sam Burns.

Collecting seven birdies and a pair of eagles, Burns went around the par 72 in sizzling fashion en route to an 11-under 61. Burns flirted with the thought of a sub-60 round in the middle of his back nine thanks to a 6-under stretch over six holes but ultimately had to settle for the lowest round of his PGA Tour career.

"I think, based off the scores, obviously everybody's shooting some good numbers, so I think just trying to keep pace and trying to hit as many quality shots and get as many looks as possible," said Burns. "I think the greens are really good around La Quinta, and here, and Stadium, so I think it comes down to being able to make some key putts."