AKRON, Ohio -- The third major of the year on the PGA Tour Champions, the Kaulig Companies Championship, is heating up with Miguel Angel Jimenez and Steven Alker tied for the lead after an intense third round at Firestone South. Jimenez, seeking his fourth victory of the year, carded a 4-under 66, while Alker matched his score with a 67, leaving both at 8-under 202 heading into the final round.

Jimenez's Dominant Stretch

Jimenez, the 61-year-old Spanish legend, showcased his skill with a remarkable five-hole stretch in the middle of the round, going 4 under with birdies on holes 7, 8, 10, and 11. Despite a bogey on the par-3 12th, he steadied himself with six consecutive pars to close out the round. Jimenez has been in stellar form this year, winning the Trophy Hassan II, the Hoag Classic, and the Principal Charity Classic in a playoff.

Alker's Steady Play

Alker, the 53-year-old from New Zealand, kept pace with Jimenez, birdieing the par-4 17th to tie for the lead. He then saved par on the 18th with a clutch 5-footer after missing the green. Alker, who won the Cologuard Classic earlier this year, is chasing his ninth Champions title.

Chasing Pack

Behind the leaders, Michael Wright and Freddie Jacobson are tied for third at 6 under, while Richard Green sits at 5 under. The winner of this championship will earn a coveted spot in next year's Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass.

Firestone South's Legacy

Firestone South, a course that previously hosted the World Series of Golf and a World Golf Championship, continues to challenge the best in the game. The players will next head to the U.S. Senior Open in Colorado, where the competition promises to be just as fierce.

Cabrera's Struggles

Ángel Cabrera, who has already won two majors this year at the Regions Tradition and the Senior PGA Championship, struggled with a 73, leaving him at 2 over.

With the final round set to determine the champion, all eyes will be on Jimenez and Alker as they battle for the title and a chance to qualify for one of golf's most prestigious events.