As the FedEx St. Jude Championship kicks off at TPC Southwind in Memphis, the top 70 players on the PGA Tour are gearing up for the first playoff event of the FedExCup. This tournament not only marks the start of the playoffs but also offers a no-cut format, adding extra pressure as golfers battle to advance to the BMW Championship. With the excitement building, let’s dive into an in-depth analysis of the course, the top contenders, and some sharp betting picks to help you navigate this thrilling event.
The Challenge of TPC Southwind
TPC Southwind is known for its demanding layout, featuring narrow, tree-lined fairways, 11 water hazards, and Bermuda grass greens. Measuring 7,200 yards and playing as a par 70, this course has consistently ranked among the toughest on the PGA Tour. Since 2003, TPC Southwind has recorded the highest number of water balls on tour, making precision and accuracy paramount for success.
Key Course Features
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Water Hazards: With water in play on 11 holes, the ability to manage risk will be crucial. The smallest mistake can result in a devastating penalty, as many players have discovered in previous tournaments here.
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Zoysia Grass Fairways: Renowned for their tight lies, these fairways demand crisp ball striking. Players who can hit their irons cleanly will have a significant advantage.
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Bermuda Greens: While these greens are relatively flat compared to others, they are tricky due to their Bermuda grass composition. Players who traditionally struggle on Bermuda may find it challenging to gain an edge.
Top Players to Watch and Betting Picks
1. Scottie Scheffler (+400)
Scottie Scheffler enters the FedEx St. Jude Championship as the season's most consistent player. With nine victories this year, including a gold medal in Paris, Scheffler is on an incredible run. However, his history at TPC Southwind is less impressive, with a best finish of 14th in 2021. Scheffler's struggles on the Bermuda greens could be a concern, making him a risky outright bet this week.
2. Hideki Matsuyama (+3300)
Hideki Matsuyama has been on fire lately, capped by a bronze medal at the Olympics. His form has carried over to TPC Southwind, where he has excelled in recent years. With two top finishes at Southwind, including a second-place in 2021, Matsuyama is poised for another strong showing. His improved putting on Bermuda makes him a formidable contender.
3. Adam Scott (+7000)
Adam Scott is a seasoned veteran who has found his form at just the right time. With top finishes at the Scottish Open and The Open Championship, Scott is primed for success at TPC Southwind. His putting has improved significantly, and his history at this course, including a fifth-place finish last year, makes him a dark horse worth considering for an outright win.
4. Sam Burns (+6500)
Sam Burns might be the sleeper pick of the week. After a solid performance at the 3M Open, Burns has taken some time off to recharge. His familiarity with TPC Southwind, where he finished runner-up in 2021, combined with his expertise on Bermuda greens, positions him as a strong contender to surprise the field.
5. Tony Finau (+4000)
Tony Finau has been quietly putting together a solid season, with his putting being a standout. Finau's consistency makes him a top-10 candidate, and his ability to avoid big mistakes could see him in contention come Sunday.
? Key Matchups and Sleeper Picks
Matchup 1: Colin Morikawa vs. Ludwig Aberg
Colin Morikawa has a proven track record at TPC Southwind, and despite his struggles on Bermuda greens elsewhere, he has performed well here. Ludwig Aberg, while talented, has shown inconsistencies in his short game, making Morikawa the safer bet in this matchup.
Matchup 2: Russell Henley vs. Corey Conners
Russell Henley’s recent form and expertise on Bermuda greens give him the upper hand against Corey Conners. Conners has historically struggled on these surfaces, making Henley a strong choice in this head-to-head.
Sleeper Pick: Ben Griffin (+300 for Top 20)
Ben Griffin is a player under the radar but with potential to break into the top 20. Sitting 56th in the FedExCup standings, Griffin needs a strong finish to advance. His accuracy off the tee and solid putting make him a great value pick for a top-20 finish at TPC Southwind.
Betting Insights and Predictions
Top 3 Outright Bets
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Hideki Matsuyama (+3300): Matsuyama’s strong form and past success at Southwind make him a top pick for this week. His ability to rise to the occasion in big moments could lead to a victory.
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Adam Scott (+7000): Scott’s recent resurgence and positive course history make him an intriguing option. His improved putting could be the difference-maker.
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Sam Burns (+6500): Burns’ familiarity with the course and his rest leading into the tournament could help him pull off a surprise win.
Best Bet: Tony Finau to Top 10 (+320)
Tony Finau’s consistency this season, especially with the putter, makes him a solid bet for a top-10 finish. His ability to navigate the tricky conditions at Southwind could see him among the leaders.
Course Conditions and Weather Forecast
The weather in Memphis this week looks favorable for scoring, with temperatures expected to soar to 98 degrees. The heat and dry conditions should make the course play fast, and with only a slight chance of rain on Wednesday and Saturday, the greens should remain firm and challenging.
Conclusion
The FedEx St. Jude Championship is set to be a thrilling start to the FedExCup Playoffs, with the best golfers in the world vying for the title at TPC Southwind. The course’s unique challenges, combined with the no-cut format, will test every aspect of the players' games. Whether you’re a bettor looking for value picks or a fan eager to see who will rise to the occasion, this week promises to deliver excitement and drama at every turn.
With our in-depth analysis and expert picks, you're now equipped to make informed decisions and fully enjoy the spectacle of playoff golf. Will Scottie Scheffler continue his dominance? Can Hideki Matsuyama add another trophy to his collection? Or will a dark horse like Adam Scott or Sam Burns steal the show? Tune in and find out!