AP

GARLAND, Texas (AP) — Tony Romo was 11-over par for 27 holes Thursday in the first stage of the Web.com Tour's Qualifying Tournament.

The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback opened with an 8-over 79 at Firewheel at Garland Bridges and had a 3-over 39 on the Masters Nine. He was 74th in the 76-player field, with the top 22 and ties advancing to the second stage.

"I've felt pressure with playing (tournament golf) before, but I just didn't play well today," Romo said. "Off the tee I struggled and made everything very difficult. I made way too many high numbers. Like anything in golf, you have to go back and see what the reasons were and then subtly work on them."

Romo will complete the second round on the Champion Nine on Friday, and play the third round Saturday.

Mexican amateur Alvaro Ortiz had the lead at 9 under.