US Chess Championship Round 8

This was a very significant day for the forecasts. Akobian defeated Erenburg while Kamsky only managed a draw against Naroditsky, so now Akobian leads by a full point with 3 rounds to go. He is the clear favorite, but Kamsky and Lenderman still have chances. One factor working in Kamsky's favor is that he has an easier schedule; he plays bottom seeds Molner and Friedel in rounds 9 and 11. Akobian will face Shankland and Lenderman in those rounds. The crucial game will be the round 10 duel between Kamsky and Akobian.