Andrew Novak leads RSM Classic as FedExCup cut-line drama intensifies

Playing his first event since the Tour Championship three months ago, Novak backed up his opening 61 to reach 16-under at the halfway point.

Michael Thorbjornsen and Patrick Rodgers are one shot back on 15-under, with Sami Valimaki and Greyson Sigg a further stroke behind.

With only the top 100 in the FedExCup retaining full status for next season, much of the round-two drama played out on the cut line. Beau Hossler, ranked No 103, kept his hopes alive by birdieing the par-five eighth and saving par from a bunker on the ninth to sign for a 67 and make the weekend on seven-under.

Others weren't as fortunate. Former Open champion Brian Harman and Sahith Theegala both missed the cut, while Joel Dahmen - who only narrowly kept his card last year - fell short again and will lose full status under the Tour's tightened exemption rules.

Takumi Kanaya, who missed a short par putt in Bermuda last week that would have secured his place, sits nervously at No 99 and must hope not to be overtaken.

Korn Ferry Tour Player of the Year Johnny Keefer is still in the mix after finishing on 13-under, three back and chasing a top-five finish that could earn the 24-year-old - playing on a sponsor exemption - a Masters berth via the world ranking.