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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at the Waste Management Phoenix Open and helping you find some winning teams!

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PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Field of 132 golfers
  • Cut: 36 holes, Top 65 and ties
  • 2020 winner: Webb Simpson (-17)
  • The courses: TPC Scottsdale
    • Par 71 – 7,261 yards
    • Altitude means bombers will bomb even harder, but driving accuracy also important
    • Fans not as much of a factor, going from 200,000+ to about 5K
    • Fast Bermuda greens
  • 6/6 golfers making the cut should be easier this week with the smaller field
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Ball Striking, SG: Approach, SG: Off the Tee, Birdie or Better %, Par 4s: 450-500, Par 5s Gained, Opportunities Gained, SG: Around the Green, SG: Putting (Bermuda)

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Jon Rahm (DK $11,200) – Rahm might be ready for a breakthrough at the Waste Management Phoenix Open after four straight performances among the top 16 in which he’s placed higher each time (16-11-10 and a T9 last season). His ball striking and short game make him a threat to win every week, but he and the next guy are 2-1 in my model, respectively, so I won’t be fading Rahmbo at TPC Scottsdale.

Justin Thomas (DK $10,800) – JT returns to the business of dominating golf courses with his complete bag of tools – which he’s probably anxious to dust off after a missed cut at Abu Dhabi and an unfortunate and embarrassing foot-in-mouth incident where he uttered a slur after a missed putt. There’s some merit to fading him in GPPs since he’s bound to be highly owned, but I always have a hard time leaving him off my favorite teams. He’s first or second in five of the nine focus stats listed above and will be a staple of my builds in all formats.

Webb Simpson (DK $10,100) – The defending champion took last week off after playing both tournaments in Hawaii (T17 at Sentry TOC and T4 at the Sony Open), and he’s made 7/7 cuts this year. He’s not a long hitter, so he’ll have to deploy a different strategy than the bombers on the long par 4s and par 5s, but he’s won here before and can do it again.

Daniel Berger (DK $9,600) – Berger works best in cash games where you’re fading the $10K and up range and looking for more balance, especially since he’s making cuts with such consistency and flashing top 10 upside. He’s not my favorite to win, but he’s finished in the top 25 in four straight events and in the 25-30 range in the previous two. Berger isn’t a complicated golfer to handicap – he just has a little trouble winning (three career, his last at the 2020 Charles Schwab).

Also consider: Xander Schauffele, Rory McIlroy (GPP), Hideki Matsuyama

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Scottie Scheffler (DK $9,100) – I was going to start off this tier with Sungjae Im, but I like Scheffler’s upside in large-field GPPs a bit more and would prefer Im in cash games in the $9,000-$9,500 price range. Scheffler didn’t do well in his debut here last season, but if he can get hot with the putter and make the cut, there’s no telling what he can pull off on Sunday. Probably not a staple of my single-entry GPP, but just the kind of guy I want to mix up my small-stakes, multi-entry GPP tickets.

Will Zalatoris (DK $9,000) – There’s no course history to examine here, but it’s not an overly complex setup tee to green – so the talented Zalatoris is definitely in play here, especially in GPPs where folks could shay away from the price tag and the dearth of experience at TPC Scottsdale. There’s really not a venue that can throw off Willie Z, so I’m buying with the inherent risk of his short game lacking the umph to carry him onto the leaderboard.

Bubba Watson (DK $8,500) – Bubba is a course horse (T3 and T4 in last two years here) and a guy who thrives on fast greens. His poor showing at the Masters and missed cut last week at the Farmers doesn’t instill confidence, but he’s No. 17 on my model and is worth a look in GPPs.

Billy Horschel (DK $8,400) – If we throw out Horschel’s MC last week, there’s a lot to like about his recent play. He’s also 5-for-5 here with a Top 10 last season, and while he’s not necessarily popping (No. 49 overall) on my model this week, he’s viable in those balanced cash builds we’ve discussed – and even a few tournaments.

Gary Woodland (DK $8,300) – Like Watson, Gary is a golfer who’s best days in the sport may be behind him – but there’s still plenty to like about the course fit and track record: he’s four-for-his-last-five here and won the event in 2018. If he can strike it well and seize on his opportunities this week, he might make for a solid GPP play in “balanced” builds.

Russell Henley (DK $8,200) – Henley seems to alternate missed cuts with Top 20 finishes at TPC Scottsdale, as well as MCs with Top 30s in his recent play. When I take that pattern and add in that he’s on the beat for the better of those two scenarios this year – and this week – the fact that he’s No. 12 in my model (and No.1 in both SG: BS and SG: APP) gets me excited. He’s my favorite play for GPPs in the $8,000 to $8,500 range, and I dare say is viable in both single-entry and cash.

Sam Burns (DK $7,700) – Burns is the sub-$8K player who’s “popping” the most on my models (No. 6 overall) and while he played well last week, the Sunday 75 kept him from a Top 10 finish. He’s 0-for-2 here but If he can turn it around with the putter this week – and he’s normally pretty solid with the flat stick but lost almost 3 shots to the field last week – he could make for a solid under-the-radar play in all formats.

Matt Kuchar (DK $7,700) – Kuchar loves the Waste Management Open (4-for-4 with three top 10s and a T16 in his last four tries) and the price is significantly reduced since his game has taken a turn for the worse since COVID-19. Maybe this event will bring up some good memories.

Also consider: Sungjae Im (cash), Harris English (GPP), Ryan Palmer (GPP), Louis Oosthuizen, Rickie Fowler (GPP), Corey Conners, Max Homa, Carlos Ortiz, Talor Gooch (GPP)

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Henrik Norlander (DK $7,500) – Norlander’s play can be wildly inconsistent week-to-week, but he’s playing well right now (T12 at the AMEX and T2 last week at Torrey Pines) and is tops in the field playing Par 4s (450-500). A first-timer in Phoenix, Norlander makes sense as a GPP play – but I’d steer clear in cash.

Brendan Steele (DK $7,400) – He’s No. 35 on my model this week with no glaring deficiencies other than a relatively weak putter. Steele has fared well here before (third place in 2018) but missed the cut in the last two tries. He’s a good bet for a bounceback and could be a viable cash game target at this price.

Charley Hoffman (DK $7,000) – I normally don’t play Hoffman but this might be the week I jump aboard. The model likes him (No. 35 overall) and he’s perfect in his last five tries here with three finishes among the top 26 golfers.

Harold Varner III (DK $6,700) – Varner is always a bit risky but he had Top 10 upside at this venue and is an excellent ball striker who’s popping in my model. Like many good ball strikers who haven’t won, his struggles are usually on the greens, so that’ll be something to watch this week.

Harry Higgs (DK $6,700) – Higgs is the opposite of Varner (not a great ball striker, better on and around the greens), but priced similarly because he’s a damn good putter. If you’re down to under $7K for your last piece, you could pivot between him and HV3.

Mark Hubbard (DK $6,600) – I like playing Hubbard in GPPs, and he’s actually 3-for-3 at the Waste Management Open – a promising stat for a guy priced this low. Nothing in his recent play is very promising, but the T9 finish last year points to an affinity for TPC Scottsdale and the low price means he could work for top heavy lineups that need some value plays.

Denny McCarthy (DK $6,600) – McCarthy is tops in the field for SG:P and his flat stick keeps him in the conversation at most venues. This week, the elevation could help with his distance (he does play Par 5s well) and the fact that he’s made the cut in two tries here and should be low owned means he’s worth a look in GPPs.

More value golfers to consider: Zach Johnson, Emiliano Grillo (GPP), Byeong Hun An (GPP), John Huh, Luke List (GPP), Sebastian Munoz, Erik Van Rooyen, James Hahn

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Tom Hoge (DK $6,500) – Hoge has missed three straight cuts, but he’s improved with each appearance at this tournament, culminating with a T25 last year. There aren’t any sure things at $6,500 and under, but I’ll be overweight on last week’s secret weapon after his disappointing performances at the AMEX and Farmers.

Padraig Harrington (DK $6,200) – Harrington has made the cut in four straight events and is near the minimum price on DK. His game around the greens is still solid, and while he’s a longshot DFS play, he’s easy to root for.

Additional punt options: Brian Stuard, Keith Mitchell (GPP), Hudson Swafford

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at the American Express and helping you find some winning teams!

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PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Weaker, full field of 156 golfers (no Pro-Am this year)
  • Cut: 36 holes (instead of the venue’s usual 54), Top 65 and ties
  • 2020 winner: Andrew Landry (-25)
  • The courses: PGA West in Palm Springs, CA (TPC Stadium and Nicklaus Tournament)
    • Both Par 72 (7,100-7,300 yards)
    • Reachable Par 5s and plenty of scoring
    • Rough not too penal, some wind expected
    • Bermuda greens, lots of sand and water
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Approach, Birdie or Better %, Opportunities Gained, SG: Putting (Bermuda), SG: Off the Tee, Fairways Gained, Bogey Avoidance

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Tony Finau (DK $10,500) – I’ve said many times that I’d never again roster Finau – but that’s an attitude antithetical to winning DFS play. The 31-year-old tour veteran ranks seventh in the field in BoB gained and 12th in SG:OTT. If you’re fading the Patricks (Reed and Cantlay) and don’t want to go near Brooks Koepka, Finau is a great guy to get behind in the top tier.

Sungjae Im (DK $9,900) – My model loves Im (second overall behind Russell Henley), and there’s no particular area where this hardworking tour grinder’s game suffers. While Henley’s had his struggles at this venue (1/4), Sungjae is 2-for-2 with a T10 and T12. He’s a fine play in all formats.

Matthew Wolff (DK $9,700) – It’ll be interesting to see how much cash game love Wolff gets this week, considering he missed the cut in his first try at PGA West last season, but there’s really no reason to fade him in GPPs. His talent and ability to record birdies in bunches makes him a top play.

Scottie Scheffler (DK $9,500) – Scheffler debuted at this tournament with a solo third place finish, he’s No. 15 on my model, and he’s even better than Finau in the aforementioned two categories (No. 3 in SG:OTT and No. 5 in BoB%) that are big strengths here. In a field without too many big names, Scheffler’s looms large.

Also consider: Patrick Cantlay, Brooks Koepka (GPP)

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Kevin Na (DK $9.200) – Na isn’t the kind of golfer we like to rely on for consistency, but his track record at this event is impressive: 6/6 with two top 20s since 2014. Last week’s champ might see his ownership spike considerably from last week, but he makes for an affordable cash game option who I’ll mix into a few GPPs.

Abraham Ancer (DK $9.100) – Ancer likes the venue and despite a few putting hiccups and his inability to close out tournaments, the price makes plenty of sense for Accurate Abe. He’s placed better each of the times he’s teed it up in Palm Springs, and a breakthrough win is only a hot putter away.

Cameron Champ (DK 8,900) – I haven’t heard a ton of chatter about Champ in a while, and that means it might be time to get aboard; he’s a player with all the talent in the world to rip this course apart. Tops in the field in SG:OTT and 22nd in BoB% (you should be noticing a trend here), Champ just needs to keep it in the fairways and score well on the Par 3s.

Adam Long (DK $8,500) – Long missed the cut last year after winning this event as a rookie in the 2018-19 season, and he’s already notched four Top 15s in eight starts this season. He’s not among my favorites to win, but he’s a solid GPP play in this price range.

Patton Kizzire (DK $8,400) – Kizzire might be the best putter on tour right now, and his usual issues off the tee have been mitigated by his performance on the greens. Think of him as a poor man’s Na without the requisite success at PGA West, and a guy that should be low-owned in tournaments at this increased price.

Sam Burns (DK $8,300) – He hasn’t played much competitive golf lately but Burns has a T18 and T6 in his two appearances here, and both he and Ryan Moore (also making his 2020-21 season debut) make for excellent plays in the $8,000-$8,500 range.

Ryan Moore (DK $8,000) – Burns and Moore rank at No. 8 and No. 9 in my model, respectively, though they occupy different ends of the putting spectrum, with Moore’s flat stick lagging considerably. The slight discount on Moore could help make the decision in cash games, but they both make sense for GPPs.

Adam Hadwin (DK $8,000) – The ultimate course horse, Hadwin’s performance at PGA West is downright astounding, with four straight finishes among the Top 6 from 2016 to 2019. I’ve tried 100 percent Hadwin ownership before and it worked out badly, but I’m tempted to try it again considering his unusual affection for the TPC Stadium course and the fact that the only reason he didn’t play here last year was due to the birth of his first child.

Also consider: Rickie Fowler (GPP), Paul Casey, Gary Woodland, Erik Van Rooyen, Aaron Wise (GPP), Alex Noren

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Doc Redman (DK $7,500) – The luster has worn off a bit after his T61 in Houston and MC at the RSM Classic, so I feel comfortable enough to call Doc a “sleeper” pick this week. The final ownership percentages will tell the final story on how much I’ll be using, but he’s all the way up at third in my overall rankings this week.

Talor Gooch (DK $7,400) –Gooch has a top 5 here (2019) and two straight MCs at the RSM and Sony will keep his ownership down. What’s really bizarre is that he’s almost interchangeable in terms of model ranking (12th vs. 13th), past performance (both have a T4 in the past two seasons) and price point (same) with Sepp Straka.

Sepp Straka (DK $7,400) – What I said about Gooch goes for Sepp, right down to my infatuation with both for GPPs. I’ll be building a whole smattering of tournament lineups with either – or both – of these golfers, and hoping they can keep it together the first couple days and make the cut.

Keegan Bradley (DK $7,300) – Bradley seems like a one week on, one week off type of golfer, so I’m less concerned about his MC at the Sony Open than I am his Top 25 upside. Bradley always flies under the radar despite a solid approach game and excellent ball-striking off the tee.

Matthew NeSmith (DK $7,100) – He’s cheap, he can fire at flagsticks and we know he can score (-18 for a T8 at the Shriners in October). NeSmith may not be exciting, but he’s No. 33 in my model this week, he finished T17 in his debut here last season, and he may improve on that this year.

Andrew Landry (DK $7,000) – My model is not kind to Landry this year, but he’s the defending champ and I’ll work in some ownership in MMEs. Not only did he win here in 2020, but he lost in a playoff in this event in 2018, so there’s something about the place he digs.

Vaughn Taylor (DK $6,800) – I find it difficult to pin down exactly when to play Taylor, but he’s 3-for-4 here with a Top 10 in 2019 – and his price (along with a Top 25 last week at the Sony) makes him an interesting punt option.

More value golfers to consider: Lucas Glover, Charley Hoffman, Cameron Tringale, Tom Hoge, Russell Knox (GPP), Chex Reavie, John Huh, Henrik Norlander, Adam Schenk

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

John Augenstein (DK $6,500) – First-timers seem to fare well here, and Augenstein, playing in his pro debut this week, ranks at No. 53 in my model. He’s got the star power to make this price seem ridiculous in subsequent events. I’ll be overweight on the field and hoping for some Sunday airtime.

Chase Seiffert (DK $6,400) – Seiffert is actually playing with Augenstein, so he can relay stories of his T21 finish in his debut here in 2020 and maybe get those good vibes going again. Seiffert falls just behind Augie, Tom Hoge and Brice Garnett in my model at No. 56, so there’s plenty to like as a bargain bin value option.

Grayson Murray (DK $6,300) – He’s a course horse of the not-quite highest order (with Hadwin in a class by himself) because he’s notched three Top 15s here in his four attempts (MC in 2019). Don’t go overboard, but don’t completely forget about him either.

Additional punt options: Andrew Putnam, Will Gordon, Sebastian Cappelen (GPP) Nate Lashley, Sean O’Hair

Good luck this week! – Antonio D’Arcangelis

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at the Sentry Tournament of Champions and helping you find some winning teams!

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PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Strong field limited to 42 golfers
  • No Cut
  • 2020 winner: Justin Thomas (-14)
  • The course: Kapaulua (The Plantation Course) in Lahaina, HI
    • Par 73 (7,596 yards)
    • On a resort, but the Ben Crenshaw/Bill Moore design has been updated in 2019 to prevent too much bombing
    • More emphasis on approach and accuracy
    • Bermuda greens
    • Course knowledge helps
    • Wind will play a factor this week
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Approach, SG: Ball Striking, Par 4s Gained, Par 5s Gained, Proximity from 100-125, SG: Off the Tee, Birdie or Better %, SG: Putting (Bermuda), GIR

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Dustin Johnson (DK $11,000) – DJ is the betting favorite to win, and he’s done it here before. My ownership will be in large part driven by the field’s. The issue is he’s tops in my model in five of the nine categories I listed above – and top five in three others. The lone outlier is his No. 11 ranking in SG: Putting on Bermuda. He’s too good to fade.

Justin Thomas (DK $10,700) – JT is only about a half-step behind DJ in price but doesn’t really lack in any major categories except putting on this surface – which we probably shouldn’t weigh as a huge factor. You’re probably going to have to pick your stud, because fitting both requires too many scrubs. I’d like to come in right around the field ownership percentage on Thomas this week.

Jon Rahm (DK $10,400) – Rahm has been keeping limber and already has three Top 10s in three tries here. This could be the year he breaks through, and I’ll have shares in all formats. If the winds picks up like it’s supposed to, he’s a good guy to have in your lineup. The club change and new look probably shouldn’t hurt his chances here – but the mental aspects of golf are usual a huge part of his successes and failures on the course.

*Xander Schauffele (DK $10,000) – He seems to thrive in no-cut events and he notched a win here in 2018. The price is correct here and Schauffele could end up being a very popular GPP choice by Sunday when folks fade the chalky Johnson and JT. If X-Man’s approaches from 100-125 are on point this week (he’s only 40th in the field in that stat), he could win again. He’s a way better play than Bryson DeChambeau at this venue – and he’s cheaper.

*NOTE: Xander had a rough time during his COVID-19 diagnosis, and he hasn’t played much golf in the past few weeks because of the quarantine. He’s still an option for MME and large-field GPPs, but I might keep him out of my SE and cash games.

Also consider: Patrick Cantlay, Patrick Reed

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Hideki Matsuyama (DK $9,000) – With all due respect to Webb Simpson, who I’ll have some shares of, Matsuyama is my favorite player in this price range. Although Deki is just No. 18 in my model, he overperforms in wind and he gained considerable confidence on the putting surface over the past few tourneys before the December break. I’ll be overweight on the field.

Collin Morikawa (DK $8,800) – He played well in his Sentry debut last year and his game fits the profile for this course and the windy conditions. Morikawa is No. 13 in my mixed model and his performance here will hinge on his putting. I’m a big fan of this guy, and a no-cut event in a strong field might be just what he needs to get back some of his confidence that flagged a bit in late 2020.

Daniel Berger (DK $8,600) – Berger will be popular, and there’s a few guys I like a bit better for GPPs coming in just under his price – but there’s no discernible reason to fade him unless he gets super chalky. At No. 5 in my mixed model, he and Tony Finau are the only two sub-$9K golfers in my Top 10.

Cameron Smith (DK $8,400) – The Aussie debuted here in 2017 (to a T17 finish) and this is his first time back. There’s much more to like now about his game, and it’s very possible I like him more than most of the other golf experts out there. I’m most concerned about the conditions with Smith, who should have plenty of scoring opportunities if things don’t get too tough out there.

Joaquin Niemann (DK $8,300) – He’s a horse for the course and last year’s fifth place finish is testament to that. Niemann is also No. 11 in my model and while he can get a little squirrelly around the greens, he’ll have a few days to find his mojo.

Also consider: Webb Simpson, Tony Finau, Harris English, Scottie Scheffler (GPP), Abraham Ancer (GPP), Kevin Kisner, Sergio Garcia (GPP)

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Sebastian Munoz (DK $7,500) – I don’t think he can win here, but if we’re trying to find value pieces to round out our lineups, Munoz might be a nice fit. A top 15 could be good enough for cash builds and I’m not ruling out a few fliers in multi-entry GPP.

Marc Leishman (DK $7,400) – The no-cut event will help him, and he’s got a fourth and seventh place finish here in his two appearances. Leishman has excellent control over his ball flight and can go high or low when necessary, which makes him a solid value option GPPs because he’s one of the only sub-$8K golfers with Top 5 upside.

Jason Kokrak (DK $7,300) – A first-timer at Kapalua, Kokrak punched his ticket at Shadow Creek with his first PGA Tour win. I may not be all-in on Jason, but I love his game and so does the mixed model – which puts him 10th in the field overall.

Lanto Griffin (DK $6,900) – Lanto likes the wind and the course, as he finished 13th in his debut here last season. He’s one of the best value on the board and will be a staple of my single-entry GPP builds.

More value golfers to consider: Brendan Todd (Cash), Ryan Palmer, Mackenzie Hughes (GPP), Kevin Na (GPP), Stewart Cink

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Michael Thompson (DK $6,500) – The mixed model numbers don’t indicate anything special with Thompson, but his wind performance stands out among the scrubs. I’ll give him a look in two or three of my 20 lineups in my 20-max GPPs.

Martin Laird (DK $6,400) – Another first timer at this venue, Laird offers excellent value at $6,400 based on his ball-striking and ability to hit greens. Lots of folks are flocking to Richy Werenski at $6K, but a few more bucks gets you a better golfer overall.

Additional punts: Andrew Landry, Brian Gay (GPP)

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at The Masters and helping you find some winning teams!

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PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Reduced field of 93 golfers but all the big names – it is the Masters, after all
  • 36-hole Cut: Top 50 and ties & 10-stroke rule NOT in effect
  • Last year: Tiger Woods (-13)
  • The course: Augusta National (Donald Ross)
    • Par 72: 7,475 yards
    • Bentgrass greens
    • Tournament is being played in November, so the weather (low-to-mid 70s) and course are different than the normal April event
    • The Ryegrass overseeding requires constant watering in the fall, so it’ll be wetter than normal; there’s also rain/storms in the forecast most of the day Thursday
  • Still no “gallery” for this tournament
  • The defending champ (Tiger) is barely playing (and not playing well) and certainly doesn’t look 100 percent.
  • There’s a dude who can hit it nearly 400 yards in the field (Bryson)
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Off the Tee, Driving Distance, SG: Approach, SG: Putting (Bentgrass), SG: Around the Green, Par 5 scoring

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Bryson DeChambeau (DK $11,200) – The big boy’s been inciting some audible gasps at his length this week during practice rounds (we’re talking driver-7-iron on the 575-yard Par 5 second hole and driver-wedge at the 13th), and there’s a lot of chatter about how his new power approach could dominate. Bryson’s similarly innovative arm-lock style on the greens could also exorcise his Augusta putting demons, so I’m grabbing plenty of GPP shares – even at top dollar.

Justin Thomas (DK $10,700) – While I don’t blindly follow my PGA DFS models, Thomas is at the top of mine this week. This is his fifth appearance at Augusta National – where he’s scored better and finished higher in each attempt. He’s still without a top ten, but JT is remarkable with his ball-striking here – ranking 11th, sixth, second and third in greens hit over the last four years. The recent form has been solid, with a win and three runners-up in the restart, and I’m willing to take a shot at what could be lower ownership than Jon Rahm and DJ, the next two guys on the pricing chart,

Jon Rahm ($10,500) – The Spaniard’s recent results have been staggeringly good – with six victories, five seconds and three third place finishes worldwide since he finished, he notched a top 10 at last season’s Masters. That T9 finish was on the heels of a fourth-place finish here in 2018 – so it’s safe to say he doesn’t have major problems contending here, pun intended.

Dustin Johnson (DK $10,000) – The two missed starts due to COVID-19 could have thrown a wrench into his prep, but over his last six events that straddled that spell, he’s almost in a class by himself. DJ had a T2 here in 2019 – his fourth consecutive top 10 (he was injured in 2017) – and my biggest concern about him is always his putter.

Xander Schauffele (DK $9,800) If you were wondering who was second in my model, look no further. The X-Man has been described as a “quick study” at Augusta, going from 50th in 2018 to T2 at the 2019 Masters. In total, he’s played 13 majors in his career and has made the cut in 12 and finished six times among the top 10. His form is solid too, so I can’t imagine a much better core play in cash or GPP.

Also consider: Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka (GPP), Patrick Cantlay

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Patrick Reed (DK $9,200) – He’s only average off the tee, which may be a bigger factor than normal is this course plays soft, but his game around the greens have helped him win here before (-18 in 2015). A fine GPP option with winning upside.

Tiger Woods (DK $9,100) – I’d be fine coming in around or a bit under the field’s ownership percentage for GPPs, because I have a hard time seeing him defend without much form to speak of, but you can’t count him out at Augusta.

Adam Scott (DK $8,900) – Scott won at both Riviera (in February) and in December at the Australian PGA and doesn’t have any top 20s since then. But he won at Augusta in 2013 and has five career top 10s here. He loves this place (16 made cuts out of 18) and you can’t really blame him.

Tony Finau (DK $8,800) – I’d love to have the brass to put my Finau GPP ownership at 100 percent, but I’ve been burned by him before. The longtime tournament “bridesmaid” has played quite well in a short sample at Augusta (T10 in 2018 and T5 in 2019) and he’s been a relatively consistent golfer this season.

Hideki Matsuyama (DK $8,700) – Despite a near perfect fit for the venue, Matsuyama has actually placed worse in each year he’s played Augusta since 2015, but it’s a different time and he’s putting with confidence lately and dominating par 5s – a game changer for this ball-striking maestro. I’m definitely interested in GPPs if he doesn’t get too popular.

Jason Day (DK $8,400) – He’s long enough and sharp enough around the greens to win here, with five straight Top 30s at Augusta and plenty of good mojo in his last few starts. In a perfect world, awesome dudes like Jason Day would win more majors.

Matthew Fitzpatrick (DK $7,600) – The numbers in my focus stats for Fitzpatrick look like the heartrate monitor of an astronaut – he’s no worse than 33rd (BoB Gained) and no better than 23rd (SG: P) in any one category. This week, I’m most excited about his elite short game, and most concerned about his average length.

Also consider: Tyrrell Hatton, Bubba Watson, Matthew Wolff (GPP), Rickie Fowler, Paul Casey (GPP), Louis Oosthuizen, Scottie Scheffler, Justin Rose (GPP)

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Phil Mickelson (DK $7,500) – Lefty is like an older Tiger without the back issues and has similar struggles to Woods keeping it in the fairway – but he’s still made four out of his last five cuts at Augusta. He’s also got three green jackets and 15 (wow) top 10s, his last Top 5 coming via a T2 in 2015.

Cameron Smith (DK $7,300) – My model is not kind to Smith, who fares poorly in several of the focus stat categories – but he’s 3-for-3 here with a T5 in 2018, and he’s a solid mid-level value considering his steadily improving play and string of made cuts since the memorial in July. Even his fellow Aussies think he’s got a shot this year in his fourth Masters appearance.

Lee Westwood (DK $7,200) – I’ll throw out his missed cut and focus on his record in the last decade here, which includes five top 10s since 2010. He’s not without his risk, as he hasn’t played here since 2017, but he’s still pretty long off the tee for an older fellow and there’s lots of upside at this price.

Kevin Kisner (DK $7,100) – He’s far from a bomber, but Kisner is always good with the putter and around the greens, and he can compete in tough fields. His record here isn’t as good as the similarly priced Matt Kuchar, but he’s 4-for-4 here and could be primed for a Top 10 if the stars align.

Cameron Champ (DK $7,100) – The ultimate GPP wildcard, Champ will get the nod in my large-field tourneys at about a 15-20 percent clip, depending on this masher’s projected ownership. He’ll be there because of two factors – his ranking atop the SG:OTT category and his growing confidence in tougher fields.

Ian Poulter (DK $7,000) – No signs of decay in this witty Brit, who remains among the Top 50 in the world rankings and usually plays well at Augusta, with 12 made cuts in 13 tries. Pair that with a great price and the No. 29 ranking in my model and you get a guy worth using in all formats.

Francesco Molinari (DK $6,700) – He’s way too cheap and can get insanely hot with the putter — and while it took him a while to warm up to Augusta, his last two finishes (T20 in 2018, T5 in 2019) suggest he’s learning the ropes. Molinari has played just twice since February, but the T15 at Houston last week looks like an upward arrow to me.

Lanto Griffin (DK $6,600) – Lanto could be ready to make the jump into the OWGR Top 50, but Augusta makes for a difficult virgin test. The Masters rookie is far from a cash game play and may not even crack the Top 20, but he’s No. 36 in my model and could end up in a few of my GPPs.

More value golfers to consider: Shane Lowry, Jason Kokrak, Erik Van Rooyen, Bernd Wiesberger, Zach Johnson (GPP), Si Woo Kim, Matt Wallace (GPP), Sebastian Munoz (cash), Corey Conners, Christian Bezuidenhout (GPP)

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Adam Hadwin (DK $6,500) – He’s no doubt a longshot to win (250-1), but he’s 2-for-2 at Augusta, he’s popping in all my models and he has the second-shot chops to finish in the Top 20 here. I’m all over him this week and he’s an early leverage-play staple of my single-entry GPP builds.

Lucas Glover (DK $6,400) –Glover occupies the spot in this column that Patton Kizzire took up last week (he finished T11), and there’s a similarity between the two players – they can both roll it really well. If Glover can find fairways and make the cut, a Top 25 is well within reach at a venue that’s given him some trouble before.

JT Poston (DK $6,200) – A slight fellow with decent length off the tee, Poston is another guy that isn’t awful at anything. He’s a first-timer at Augusta but if the course is playing easier than usual, he could make for a fine value at this near-minimum price.

Additional punts: Chez Reavie (cash), Charl Schwartzel (GPP), Victor Perez, Charles Howell, Jimmy Walker

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at Vivint Houston open and helping you find some winning teams!

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PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Full field of 132 Golfers – not many big names
  • Cut: Top 65 and ties
  • Last year: Lanto Griffin (-14 at different venue: Golf Club of Houston)
  • The course: Memorial Park GC (Houston, TX – Tom Doak redesign)
    • Par 72: 7,432 yards
    • Bermuda greens
    • Brooks Koepka helped with redesign as PGA player consultant
    • Parkland – grass slopes and contours make it similar to Augusta
    • Second-shot course favoring accuracy/proximity
    • Five Par 5s, Five Par 3s
    • No course history
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Approach, Birdie or Better %, SG: Off the Tee, SG: Putting (Bermuda), GIR

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Dustin Johnson (DK $11,500) – If we’re taking a bombers and birdie-makers approach this week (SG:OTT and BoB% are two of our focus stats), we’ve got to like DJ in this prep for Augusta even though his game has been a bit unpredictable the past year. He’s the field favorite and a guy who can separate himself quickly from the field – in either direction.

Tony Finau (DK $10,900) – The course layout and design sets up well for a player like Finau, who’s been pretty consistent as a Top 10-type golfer but has lacked the ability to close. This could be the week he finally breaks through with another PGA Tour win.

Viktor Hovland (DK $9,800) – Any course with this many Par 5s should benefit Hovland, who’s excellent off the tee and seems to have worked out some of his late-summer struggles. He also provides a modest discount from the top few golfers.

Scottie Scheffler (DK $9,600) – The Texas native’s stats off the tee and overall ball-striking have been elite this season, so most of how he finishes depends on his putter. There’s not a course he can’t manage, but the price among the top tier of golfers could keep some folks away – making him a solid GPP play.

Also consider: Brooks Koepka (GPP), Tyrrell Hatton (cash)

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Sungjae Im (DK $9,300) – Another golfer with the game to flourish on this course, Im excels on Bermuda surfaces and is the ultimate grinder. If he can make some birdies this week and build some early momentum, he’ll be hard to keep out of the Top 15.

Adam Scott (DK $9,100) – Normally I’d consider Scott a better play in cash games and single-entry GPPs, but he’s making his return from a positive COVID-19 diagnosis and is more of a risk to miss the cut than usual.

Zach Johnson (DK $8,600) – I’m always surprised how well Zach Johnson fares on longer courses, and this week is another such venue. There may be better value plays out there, but Johnson’s upside and cut-making consistency are undeniable.

Brian Harman (DK $8,500) – Harman projects similarly to ZJ in this price range and has venue been more consistent this season, with eight straight finishes among the Top 40 and a neverending slew of made cuts. He makes for a fine cash game play.

Cameron Davis (DK $8,100) – Consider Davis a poor man’s Dustin Johnson, as he make a ton of birdies and can move the ball off the peg with the best of them. There’s oodles of value in Davis this week, though I imagine he’ll get popular at right around $8K.

Lee Westwood (DK $7,800) – Westwood has resurrected his career with some remarkably steady play this season on the European tour, and he finished T13 at the U.S. Open. I could see Westwood playing well the next couple weeks and smashing value at this bargain price.

Wyndham Clark (DK $7,700) – Last week’s playoff loss to Brian Gay may haunt him, but Clark is a dynamic golfer who is playing well and fits the profile for this course. Now’s the time to stay aboard the ship – though we know it can go bad quickly for Wyndham and his bomb-and-gouge approach.

Also consider:  Russell Henley (cash), Jason Day (GPP), Lanto Griffin, Doc Redman, James Hahn (GPP), Stewart Cink, Denny McCarthy (GPP), Erik Van Rooyen, Mackenzie Hughes

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Sam Burns (DK $7,500) – Continuing with our theme of bombers and birdie-makers, I present the inimitable Sam Burns, who misses a cut once in a while but has Top 10 upside on a course like this. A worthwhile GPP play at a bargain price.

Aaron Wise (DK $7,400) – Speaking of cuts, we’ve seen Wise miss the weekend five times over his last nine tournaments, so I can’t advocate for him in cash games and might steer clear in single-entry. But if he can get in the Top 65 by Friday night, he’s a solid GPP option with Top 10 upside.

Adam Schenk (DK $7,100) – Schenk is a consistent player tee-to-green who makes for a fine cash game play at just $7,100, but he may be worth considering in all formats on a course that rewards his strength stats – SG on Par 5s and BoB%.

Sepp Straka (DK $7,000) – The price for Straka this week is just way too low given how well he’s capable of playing. The scoring opportunities should be there this week for the Austrian, who can get red hot with the putter.

Matthew NeSmith (DK $7,000) – NeSmith is another guy who can go low when the putter catches fire, but the price reflects his inconsistent play. With three straight made cuts and an October Top 10 at the Shriners (T8), he’s on my radar this week.

Maverick McNealy (DK $6,900) – Looking for “birdies in bunches” this week could lead you to consider McNealy, who excels on Bermuda. I’ll have shares in GPPs.

Max Homa (DK $6,800) – I’ve had a hard time handicapping Homa this season, but he’s got the tee game to compete in this field and the price is way too low given his GPP upside.

More value golfers to consider: Keegan Bradley (GPP), Luke List, Beau Hossler, Scott Stallings, Austin Cook (GPP), Tom Hoge, Charles Schwartzel (GPP), Troy Merritt (GPP)

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Xinjun Zhang (DK $6,500) – He’s disappointed in his past two events, but Xinjun Zhang played well in Houston last season (T4), and the cheap price could make him a solid play despite the different venue.

Patton Kizzire (DK $6,400) –Kizzire struggles with accuracy off the tee, but he’s a solid putter who could easily make value if he can hit some fairways this week. I’ll take a shot in a few large-field GPPs.

Keith Mitchell (DK $6,200) – I know Keith Mitchell is bad, but he’s usually pretty good off the tee (the last few tourneys notwithstanding) and he can putt. For damn near minimum salary we can use him in some “studs and scrubs” GPP lineups.

Additional punts: Hudson Swafford (GPP), Justin Harding, Will Gordon, John Huh, Bronson Burgoon (GPP)

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at the CJ Cup @ Shadow Creek and helping you find some winning teams!

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PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Strong field of 78 golfers replete with big names
  • No cut
  • The course: Shadow Creek Golf Course (North Las Vegas, NV)
    • Par 72: 7,500+ yards (Tom Fazio design)
    • Bentgrass greens
    • One-time venue (it’s usually held in South Korea)
    • Tough course (record is just a modest 66)
    • Shorter Par 5s (except one at 600+ yards)
  • Not really a desert venue, as Fazio “manipulated” the  redesign to add rolling hills, trees and more
  • Distance control will be important, high-upside golfers preferred
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Tee to Green, SG: Approach, Birdie or Better%, Par 4s (450-500) SG: Putting (Bentgrass)

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Jon Rahm (DK $11,300) – While we don’t have any real course history to look at, we do know that Rahm is the type of golfer who performs well in no-cut events, and he’s the betting favorite this week with Dustin Johnson withdrawing after a positive COVID test. He could get chalky, but he’s a fine cash game play and should be near the top of the leaderboard come Sunday.

Justin Thomas (DK $10,800) – It’s easy to forget how much of a complete golfer JT is, especially since he has been overshadowed by some of the game’s other (younger) stars. But this PGA tour veteran remains an elite ball striker who excels in approach shots from all distances. That’s going to help this week.

Xander Schauffele (DK $11,400) – Fading Xander seems like a bad idea this week. The X-Man has an impressive record in no-cut events and is capable of dominating from start to finish, even in tough fields like this.

Matthew Wolff (DK $10,000) – Is there a hotter golfer than Wolff? His form and makeup suggest that rostering him is a priority, and there’s reason to believe this T2G monster might come in at low enough ownership to make him a tourney-breaking large-field GPP option. It’s a second-shot golf course, and nobody’s more dialed in than him right now.

Collin Morikawa (DK $9,500) – Recency bias could keep the masses off Morikawa, but he’s a great value golfer and high-upside player who belongs in the top tier. He’s 30-1 to win at the CJ Cup, but there’s no reason to believe he can’t take down this field and emerge victorious in Vegas.

Also consider: Rory McIlroy (GPP), Tyrrell Hatton

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Daniel Berger (DK $9,300) – Berger is another talented performer who’s elevated his game over the past calendar year, and I’ll have massive shares of him in lineups that use only one of the elite-tier golfers above. Roster construction is going to be tricky this week, but Berger offers some salary relief in all formats – without sacrificing too much upside.

Matthew Fitzpatrick (DK $8,900) – Can he back up his smack-talking comments criticizing Beefy Bryson now that he’ll get some extra distance from elevation? It’s a 7,500-yard course, and since I’m a massive fan of his T2G and short game, I’ll give him a look in GPPs.

Scottie Scheffler (DK $8,800) – The PGA Tour’s Rookie of the Year is one of the best values in the field, and he ranks inside the top 25 in par 5 scoring since the restart. He’s a birdie maker with plenty of GPP upside, even though his past couple of events (withdrew due to COVID, MC) haven’t gone all that well.

Sungjae Im (DK $8,700) – Speaking of upside, I’m intrigued by Im’s recent play and think this could be the week he breaks through with a Top 5 finish. The ball-striking and approach game has improved over the past few events and the South Korean offers massive value at this depressed price.

Harris English (DK $8,600) – Another solid golfer who continues to perform at a high level but hasn’t seen a huge price jump, English makes plenty of sense for cash game builds here. He’s not super exciting to roster, but he gets it done in all types of fields and events.

Louis Oosthuizen (DK $8,500) – Outside of a third-place finish at a remarkably tough Winged Foot at the U.S. Open and a T6 at the WGC-FedEx St. Jude, his upside has been lacking a bit. But there’s still a really dynamic golfer in there who loves to shine at big events, and the no-cut format should help him stay birdie-focused. Worth a look in all formats.  

Also consider: Rickie Fowler (GPP), Paul Casey, Brendan Todd, Gary Woodland

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Joaquin Niemann (DK $7,500) – Niemann misses a cut once in a while, but that isn’t a problem this week, and his form suggests he could be the best value within the $7-8K range. He’s a wonderful player T2G, and his confidence is building.

Si Woo Kim (DK $7,100) – Kim is way too cheap for how well he handles the slings and arrows that different golf courses will throw at him, and he offers a steady combination of solid approaches and serviceable short game. With three top-15 finishes in his past seven starts, I’ll have plenty of shares at this low price.

Corey Conners (DK $6,900) – The first of three Canadians in this price range we have to discuss, Conners is a longshot to win (100-1) but possesses the game to do well here and should have a good chance at making the Top 20. I’ll have some shares in GPPs.

Mackenzie Hughes (DK $6,800) – Canadian number two has a little more upside because of his birdie-making ability and recent form (four Top-15s in his last five starts). The price works, too.

Cameron Smith (DK $6,800) – Smith doesn’t seem to be intimidated by strong fields and he’s had success at this event in the past – albeit at a different venue. He’s also posted four Top-25s in his past five events and has soaring GPP upside under $7K.

Adam Hadwin (DK $6,700) – Another Canadian who could benefit from the extra distance from elevation at this course, Hadwin is a textbook second-shot golfer who sometimes struggles with the flat stick. He does, however, offer plenty of safety for cash game builds in this price range.

More value golfers to consider: Ian Poulter, Alex Noren, Bubba Watson (GPP), Brian Harman, Jason Kokrak (GPP), Marc Leishman (GPP), Ryan Palmer, Kevin Na, Dylan Frittelli

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Kevin Streelman (DK $6,500) – He’s solid T2G and excels in his approaches, and this might be just the venue for him to sneak in a Top 10 under the radar. Not a sexy pick, but worth a look in all formats.

Cameron Champ (DK $6,400) – Champ occasionally struggles with his putter but the complete game has rounded into better form in the past calendar year. He’s no longer just a bomb-and-gouge player with little to offer outside massive length, and he’ll have no problem tackling the longer holes here.

Lanto Griffin (DK $6,300) – Griffin had a couple of Top 20s heading into the U.S. Open, and while he missed the cut last week, he made seven straight before that. With those concerns off the table, we can safely consider him as a viable punt option with Top 20 upside.

Additional punts: Harry Higgs, Talor Gooch, Tom Hoge, Tyler Duncan

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open and helping you find some winning teams!

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PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Lots of big names in this solid field of 144+ golfers
  • Cut: Top 65 and ties
  • First two major winners of 2020 (Bryson DeChambeau and Collin Morikawa) headline the event
  • Defending Champ and former winners:
    • 2019 – Kevin Na (-23, beat Patrick Cantlay in playoff)
    • 2018 – DeChambeau (-21, another Cantlay second place)
    • 2017 – Cantlay (-9 in windy conditions, beat Whee Kim in playoff)
  • The course: TPC Summerlin (Las Vegas, NV)
    • Par 71: 7,255+ yards
    • Bentgrass greens
    • Played at altitude, helping shorter hitters
    • Easier setup with shorter Par 4s and three reachable par fives
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Approach, SG: Putting (Bentgrass), Birdie or Better %, SG: OTT, Par 4s (400-450), Bogey Avoidance, SG: Around the Green

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Bryson DeChambeau (DK $11,800) – It’s going to be interesting to watch the new version at altitude, on a course he’s played well in the past. Expect the unexpected, unless that means the beefier Bryson not having his way with the golf course, where he’s had three Top 10s in four tries. I know it could come back to haunt me if he has some sort of meltdown, but I’m all in in all formats – regardless of ownership.

Webb Simpson (DK $11,000) – If you’re looking for a GPP pivot who bears almost no resemblance to what will inevitably be a chalky DeChambeau, then Webb is your guy. His finishes here are a bit pedestrian, but they have improved each since 2015. He might even be a sneaky play if you’re building a cash lineup that features some serious bargain values that I’ll get to down the list.

Patrick Cantlay (DK $10,400) – There are better golfers in this price range, but none have three straight finishes in the top two on this course, so we have to talk about Patrick. With a much better field than in previous installments, this may be the year he doesn’t contest on Sunday. It won’t be an all-out fade, but I’m not too enthusiastic given his lukewarm play over the past few months.

Collin Morikawa (DK $9,800) – The reigning PGA Championship winner missed the cut at the U.S. Open in much more difficult conditions. With Morikawa’s ball-striking prowess and improving short game, this second-shot golf course should be a cakewalk. I’ll be overweight and trying to find ways to get him in along with Bryson.

Matthew Wolff (DK $9,600) – Another X-factor who’s going to be a contender at big events for years to come, Wolff notched a Top 20 in his debut at TPC Summerlin in 2019. A great cash game and GPP play, especially if you’re looking for a relative bargain with Top 5 upside.

Also consider: Hideki Matsuyama (GPP), Harris English (cash)

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Sungjae Im (DK $9,300) – The hardest working player on Tour makes a lot of sense despite limited experience at this venue (T15 in 2018, his only start here). I’m expecting a top 20 finish at TPC Summerlin and would feel comfortable being ahead of the field in my ownership.

Rickie Fowler (DK $9,000) – If there’s a golf course where Rickie could make his big resurgence after a series of swing changes, it’s this one. He’s got a fine record here when he’s made the stop, and the ownership should be low, so I’m all aboard in mid-range stocked GPP builds.

Abraham Ancer (DK $8,700) – It’s been feast or famine for Ancer at the Shriners over the past four years, but his 2020 game has been on point, so I’m plenty interested in GPPs, where a ball striker like Accurate Abe could be a fine mid-range anchor.

Will Zalatoris (DK $8,300) – There’s no course history to speak of, but Zalatoris is on the verge of becoming a tour regular with special temporary membership within his grasp. He missed the cut last week, but he’ll be prepared for this venue that could very well suit his strong T2G game.

Brian Harman (DK $8,000) – Harman has made seven consecutive cuts made, including a pair of top 15s in the FedExCup Playoffs, and the history at TPC Summerlin is impressive, with top 20s in his last two appearances. The price is just too cheap for a course horse like Harman.

Denny McCarthy (DK $7,700) – If you want to shake things up with a GPP play the masses will avoid, McCarthy (who finished T6 last week) is your guy. Possibly the tour’s best putter (he’s led in SG: Putting both of the last two seasons) Dump-it-in Denny has notched a T15 and T9 here since a missed cut in 2018.

Also consider: Paul Casey (GPP), Scottie Scheffler, Kevin Na (GPP), Joaquin Niemann, Zach Johnson, Cam Davis, Doc Redman, Cameron Smith

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Ryan Palmer (DK $7,400) – Palmer fits in both cash game and GPP builds as a high upside play. He missed the cut at the U.S Open, but the PGA Tour veteran made six straight cuts before Winged Foot, and he finished T37 last year at Shriners.

Lanto Griffin (DK $7,300) – This is a great price for a golfer who just sounds like he should tear up the PGA event in Las Vegas. Kidding aside, he’s a talented player with a T18 in last year’s Shriners.

Adam Hadwin (DK $7,100) – The fourth-place finish in 2019 drew my attention, but my main concern is that the field could be a little too good for him to contend on Sunday this year. I wouldn’t fault you for using him in cash games at this relative bargain, but I’m not ready to commit in my core builds.

Adam Schenk (DK $6,900) – He’s now made nine consecutive cuts, though the best finish is a T12, making him (just like the Adam above) best deployed in cash games.

Cameron Tringale (DK $6,900) – Always a favorite GPP play of mine, Tringale can turn it on with the putter and can handle the T2G expectations this golf course offers.

Francesco Molinari, (DK $6,700) – Speaking of getting hot with the putter, have we ever seen a guy fire it up like Frankie? There are massive concerns regarding his recent layoff, but he’s got a T4 in his only appearance here in 2016 and is an enormous bargain under $7K.

Chesson Hadley (DK $6,700) – He’s got some excellent finishes here (T18-T7-T4), and his form has been solid, with two top 20 finishes in his last five starts. We had to like that combination, don’t we?

More value golfers to consider: Harold Varner (cash), Sam Burns (GPP), Joel Dahmen, Pat Perez, Kyle Stanley, Maverick McNealy (GPP), Harry Higgs, Talor Gooch, Tom Hoge (GPP), Matthew NeSmith

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Beau Hossler (DK $6,500) – The Hossman has made his last four cuts, and he’s got three finishes in the Top 30 at the Shriners in the last three years (T29-23-T7). That’s a solid rationale to play him at just $6,500.

Richy Werenski (DK $6,400) – His last few tournaments haven’t inspired confidence, but he’s played better and better at every Shriners and 2020 has been somewhat of a breakthrough.

Patton Kizzire (DK 6,300) – Another bargain play who could help fill out your studs and scrubs GPP lineups, Kizzire has fared well at Summerlin, with two Top 5s (T2 in 2015, T2 in 2017) in his last four tries.

Additional punts: Mark Hubbard, Kevin Chappell, Will Gordon, William McGirt (GPP), Brian Gay (GPP), Wyndham Clark

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at the Sanderson Farms Championship and helping you find some winning teams!

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PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Relatively weak but much improved (from last week) field of 144 Golfers
  • Cut: Top 65 and ties
  • Defending Champ: Sebastian Munoz (-18)
  • The course: Country Club of Jackson (Jackson, MS)
    • Par 72: 7,287 yards
    • BermudaPoa (Bluegrass)
    • Bomb and gouge is in play… but avoid the water!
    • Blend of long approaches and short
  • The last six winners have all been first time winners on the PGA TOUR, but it used to be an alternate site – which means there will be a few more grizzled vets in the mix this week
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Approach, Birdie or Better%, Par 4s (400-450) SG: OTT, SG: Putting (Bermuda), Proximity (175-200)

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Scottie Scheffler (DK $11,400) – Scheffler is probably the most talented golfer in the field, and he’s also the most expensive. The PGA Tour’s Rookie of the Year withdraw from the U.S. Open after testing positive for COVID-19 but closed out the season with three top fives (among six straight top 25 finishes) and is gearing up to become the seventh consecutive first-time winner of the tournament. He’s second in my overall model after Doc Redman.

Will Zalatoris (DK $10,000) – Zalatoris, who finished in the top 20 in 13 consecutive starts, including two straight top-10s on the PGA TOUR, arrives at this week’s Sanderson Farms Championship as one of the hottest players in the world. He’s made the shift from leading the Korn Ferry Tour’s Regular Season Points list to PGA Tour events rather nicely, finishing eighth in last week’s event after an impressive T6 performance at the U.S. Open. Third in my model this week.

Sam Burns (DK $9,800) – A few weeks ago, Burns had a solid reputation as a longer hitter and birdie-making GPP play, but he’s vastly improved his T2G play and he’s 3-for-3 at CC of Jackson with a T3 in 2018 – the makings of a chalky, cash game option. He’s also in my Top 10, so I’ll have shares of him in all formats.

Doc Redman (DK $9,700) – We’ve seen Doc trending in the right direction with his overall game and ball-striking, attributes that will play well in Jackson. Redman also ranked 45th in birdie average on the PGA Tour in 2020 (fourth so far after just the Safeway Open in the 2021 season), and he’s my pick to break through and win this week.

Zach Johnson (DK $9,600) – One of the aforementioned “grizzled vets,” ZJ arrives in Mississippi sporting good form — and he finished T14 at this event last season. He’s nearly a lock for a made cut and has the short game to scoot up the leaderboard during the weekend.

Also consider: Sungjae Im (cash), Byeong-Hun An. Adam Long

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Corey Conners (DK $9,200) – He should be a staple of cash game lineups and he stands to make a much larger impact — and could be a nifty GPP play — if his ownership stays down and he can get the flat stick going this week. Last year he missed the cut at this event, but the Canadian sensation finished second here in 2018.

Carlos Ortiz (DK $8,300) – With two straight top five finishes at the Sanderson Farms, he’ll be popular this week, but it’s obvious he likes this venue and this layout, so I’ll be on board in a few lineups.

Cam Davis (DK $8,100) – Davis might be a better cash play than GPP because he’s been treading water in the T15-T40 range, but that’s not a bad guy to use last in that range because he fares well in the mixed models.

Chesson Hadley (DK $7,800) – We’re no longer getting the standard Chesson Hadley discount on FanDuel, as his salary there ($9,500) is now the 22nd highest in the field, but he’s under $8K on DK, where he’s a boom-or-bust GPP play.

Sepp Straka (DK $7,700) – Straka is turning into a much better ball striker, and while he’s known for his dynamic play, we’re seeing fewer bogeys and even more birdies these days from the

Tom Lewis (DK $7,700) – He’s not really great at anything, but he’s not particularly bad at anything either, so I’ll consider him for GPPs based on his form, aggressive style of play, and ability to make bunches of birdies.

Also consider: Brian Harman (cash), Dylan Frittelli (GPP), Chez Reavie, Henrik Stenson, Si Woo Kim, Xinjun Zhang, Lucas Glover, Patrick Rodgers (GPP), Denny McCarthy (GPP)

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Talor Gooch (DK $7,400) – Along with the next guy, he’s my favorite GPP play under $7,500, and he’s fourth in my models – not for one particular area but his overall game. Gooch isn’t the flashiest play, but he’s got what it takes to become the seventh consecutive debut winner at this event.

Cameron Tringale (DK $7,300) – Another solid player who arrives with little fanfare, I’ll have shares of Tringale in GPPs of all sorts (including single-entry), and I believe in his ability to notch a win here given his weekend play at the 3M (63-66), when he finished third.

Cameron Percy (DK $7,200) – In 2020, Percy finished 22nd on Tour in SG: APP, has a pair of top-20 finishes in his last four starts at this event (among four Top 45s) and owns top-25s in his last three starts where he played all four rounds. He’s also lurking in the Top 20 in my model among some accomplished golfers.

Brandt Snedeker (DK $7,100) – We’re talking GPP only, guys. He’s missed three straight cuts and is a notorious terrible ball striker who gets by with otherworldly putting and veteran panache. Don’t get crazy.

Patton Kizzire (DK $6,900) – He could benefit from the bomb-and-gouge approach this week and tend to flourish on Bermuda greens. He’s the definition of a large-field GPP play, because he carries plenty of MC risk (he’s missed five of his last nine cuts).

Davis Riley (DK $6,800) – The two-time 2020 Korn Ferry Tour winner was popping in my models before I found out that he’s from Mississippi, and that he’s only made a few appearances on the PGA Tour – one of which was at last year’s Sanderson Farms Championship (T39). He’s strolling down narrative street this week with a dangerous putter in his hands.

Adam Schenk (DK $6,700) – If you need a cash game play under $7K, I’d say that Schenk – despite the images of inconsistency conjured his name – might just be your man. He’s made eight consecutive cuts, which is actually the longest streak among the not-so-terrible field.

Scott Stallings (DK $6,600) – It’s been a long time since he’s won on tour (2014), and his tee game leaves a lot to be desired, but he’s in the Top 40 on my models and he could squeeze his way into one or two large-field GPP lineups this week.

More value golfers to consider: Nick Taylor (GPP), Hudson Swafford, Richy Werenski, Kristoffer Ventura, Will Gordon (GPP), Jhonattan Vegas (GPP), Mark Hubbard

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Chase Seifert (DK $6,400) – Seifert’s name came up last week in my Corales prep, and he finished T41 (right with the next guy) after a lackluster 72 on Sunday. With no major flaws in his game, if he can make the cut and close with as decent score, he could be a useful cash game cog at this bargain price.

Matthew NeSmith (DK $6,300) – The price is a joke given this guy’s upside (three Top 15s in 2020), and he’s sandwiched at 21 between Si Woo Kim and ZJ in my model. He’s definitely worth a look in GPPs.

Additional punts: Vaughn Taylor, Nick Watney (GPP), Martin Laird (GPP)

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at the Workday Charity Open and helping you find some winning teams!

PGA DFS DraftKings pricing is a little soft this week, so it’s pretty easy to put together some stacked teams. Make sure to check out WinDailySports.com for more FREE content, and hop in the Win Daily Sports Discord Chat to talk it out with our pros!

PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Fulltournament field of 156 golfers, with some bigger names than last week
  • Firstof two consecutive events being played at Muirfield Village, along with nextweek’s Memorial
  • 36-hole Cut: Top 65 and ties play theweekend
  • Thecourse: Muirfield Village
  • 7,456 yards, Par 72 – Jack Nicklaus design
  • Bentgrass Greens
  • A little longer than last time(especially Par 3s and Par 4s), but with slower greens than next week’s event
  • Wider fairways could help some longerhitters
  • Firestone CC and TPC Sawgrass have somewinner correlation
  • BrysonDeChambeau (2018 Memorial winner) NOT in the field
  • Defending champ: Patrick Cantlay (2019 Memorial: -19)
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Approach;Par 4s Gained (450-500), GIR, Bogey Avoidance, Sand Saves, Proximity (150-175),SG: Around the Green

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Justin Thomas (DK $11,100) – Hopefully the week off did him some good, but the MC at the Travelers looms large for a guy this expensive. A risk-reward play in all formats, it truly depends on how much risk you can handle.

Jon Rahm (DK $10,900) – Rahm has the all-around game to make it work here – but he’ll have to limit his desire to overpower the course and take his shots from the fairway – not the long stuff.

Patrick Cantlay (DK 10,600) – He’s the defending champ at the Memorial and thus will be popular – especially coming off a T11 at the Travelers. I’ll try to be ahead of the field, even if that’s a tall order.

Brooks Koepka (DK $10,400) – One of the best GPP plays in the field, he’s always entertaining, even if it’s just taking jabs at Beefy Bryson. Koepka is definitely heating up and this could be the week he flourishes around the greens and notches a win.

Victor Hovland (DK $9,500) – Four straight Top 25s and only three scores in his last 12 rounds in the 70s – he’s a solid cash game option at the bottom of the first tier.

Also consider: Xander Schauffele,Justin Rose (GPP), Hideki Matsuyama

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Collin Morikawa (DK $9,200) – Mr. Consistency squeaked by at the Heritage but saw his made cut streak end at the Travelers. With his iron play, the now under-the-radar Morikawa is a near lock to start another one this week.

Rickie Fowler (DK $9,000) – The price continues to remain affordable, but Rickie seems to have some stuff figured out (T12 last week) as he heads into a course where he has a couple of Top 10 finishes and a T14 last season.

Marc Leishman (DK $8,700) – Tops in the field for SG:APP, when Leishman gets hot with the putter, he can post obnoxiously low scores – and he has a good record at Muirfield. The inactivity and poor play since resuming tournament play is a concern, but I’ll trust the models and the course history.

Adam Hadwin (DK $8,200) – The Canadian is coming off a solid performance in Detroit and is another low-risk/solid irons/good scrambler combo player who could adorn the leaderboard come Sunday, Hadwin is worth a look in all formats.

Matthew Fitzpatrick (DK $8,000) – He burned me by missing the cut at the Travelers but my crush on his short game and iron play refuses to yield. The Englishman and former U.S. Amatgeur champ still hasn’t won on the PGA Tour, but he’s come close – and he’ll be a staple in my GPPs builds at this price.

Scottie Scheffler (DK $7,800) – I’m throwing out the first-round 79 in Detroit and focusing on the 65 he fired in round 2. The course fits his strengths and the combination of recency bias and value makes him a prime target for me.

Joel Dahmen (DK $7,700) – The stat models love Joel and he hasn’t missed a cut since January 30 at the Waste Management Open – a stretch that includes six Top 20s in nine starts.

Also consider: Jordan Spieth, JoaquinNiemann, Gary Woodland, Cameron Champ, Corey Conners

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Maverick McNealy (DK $7,500) – One of the best kept secrets in DFS, McNealy should garner more popularity this week following a T8 at the Rocket Mortgage, where he posted 21 birdies to just four bogey and a DBB. The kid can play.

Mark Hubbard (DK $7,400) – Hubbard keeps improving his form and establishing himself as a solid DFS option, but the price hasn’t caught up yet. Bogey avoidance will be a key stat for him this week.

Cameron Tringale (DK $7,300) – The MC at the Travelers was a letdown but Tringale remains a modest value option with upside and consistency making cuts (12/14 in 2020). If he can block out what the villagers are saying about his clothes, he should be okay.

Max Homa (DK $7,100) – Homa missed the cut at the Travelers, but he’s a good fit here with his ball striking and ability to scramble. Great value play for GPPs, as I believe he’s still massively underpriced.

Bud Cauley (DK $7,100) – Perhaps my favorite overall play this week, Cauley has the necessary chops around the green and is a solid ball-striker who’s popping in the stat models. I might go a little overboard considering the WD at the Travelers was due to Denny McCarthy testing positive, and not because of his play.

Keegan Bradley (DK $7,100) – Keegan’s biggest problem is his nerves, but he played well last week and should be comfortable here in Muirfield Village with the greens running a little slower than usual. An ideal large-field GPP play.

Sam Burns (DK $6,900) – Burns is a big risk, but he’s one of my favorite tournament plays and he’s starting to prove he belongs. I’ll be ahead of the field even if he gets popular.

Adam Long (DK $6,600) – If Long can keep it in the fairway, he’s a dangerous golfer with plenty of upside. The ultimate risk-reward GPP value play.

More value golfers forGPPs: Harold Varner, Rory Sabbatini, Chris Kirk, Troy Merritt, Tom Hoge, SebastianMunoz, Seung-Yul Noh

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Henrik Norlander (DK $6,500) – There’s not a lot of upside once you get this cheap, but Norlander sticks out like a sore thumb with his recent finishes compared to his price. I’ll have plenty of shares and don’t mind a $5 or $10 win bet at 250-1.

Brandon Wu (DK $6,500) – He tested positive for COVID-19 last week but apparently has jumped through the necessary hoops to get in the field this week. He’s 4/4 making cuts in 2020, though he hasn’t played a tourney since the Pebble Beach Pro-Am in early February.

Peter Malnati (DK $6,000) – He finished 17th at the Memorial last year and is coming off a MC after a disappointing second round 74 (following an opening round 66). For $6K, you can’t have it all, but there is some upside.

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In this edition of PGA DFS picks, we’re looking for a big payday at the Rocket Mortgage Classic and helping you find some winning teams!

The PGA DFS pricing is a little tight again this week if you’re trying to fit in a couple $10K+ guys, so we’ve got a big list for you to choose from.

PGA DFS Course Notes:

  • Full tournament field of 156 golfers, but less field strength than past two weeks
  • Field features just two out of the WGR Top 10 – Webb Simpson and Patrick Reed
  • 36-hole Cut: Top 65 and ties play the weekend
  • The course: Detroit Golf Club
  • 7,340 yards, Par 72 – Donald Ross design
  • Bentgrass Greens
  • Other Ross designs (Pinehurst No. 2, Oak Hill & more could be a good indicator)
  • Defending champ: Nate Lashley (-25…WOW!)
  • Focus Stat Categories: Strokes Gained: Approach (and SG: Tee to Green on Ross designs); Opportunities Gained, Par 4s Gained, Eagles Gained

The Picks:

Elite PGA DFS (DK $9,500 and up):

Bryson DeChambeau (DK $11,700) – Beefy (and snacky!) Bryson is the betting favorite, but the irons failed him a bit last week and I might get more shares of the guys who are just a little cheaper.

Webb Simpson (DK $11,000) – Webb’s last start was an impressive victory, and he’s second in my model after Viktor Hovland. I won’t go overboard but I’ll be fine coming in around (or a little over) the field ownership rate in multi-entry GPPs.

Tyrell Hatton (DK 10,700) – I have a good feeling about T2G monster Hatton turning this golden opportunity into another Top 5 finish, and he’s got the chops on Par 4s (and on the greens) to win. Giddyup.

Patrick Reed (DK $10,500) – Reed is never super-popular and I think he’s starting to heat up, shooting 64 on Sunday at the Travelers. He’s a great GPP play with winning upside.

Victor Hovland (DK $10,000) – This could be the week to go way overboard on Hovland and double the field ownership percentage in GPPs. The price jump may scare folks off but the field is weak and he’s just getting better and better since resuming play.

Also consider: Hideki Matsuyama,Sungjae Im, Rickie Fowler (GPP)

Mid-Range PGA DFS (DK $7,600 to $9,400):

Tony Finau (DK $9,300) – I’ve been burned by a popular Tony Finau before, but he’s got ten straight rounds under par and I’m going right back to the well with him on a Par 4-heavy course he should be able to dominate.

Scottie Scheffler (DK $9,000) – This is Scottie’s type of event – from the field strength to the focus stat categories. He’s fifth in my model rankings this week and the MC last week will keep his ownership low.

Rory Sabbatini (DK $8,800) – Sabbatini (T14 and T21 in his last two starts) is a pretty good iron player who has an excellent chance of making the cut, and sometimes he gets hot and into low numbers because of his consistent scoring opportunities. The Aussie is 18th in my model this week and could work for cash games as well.

J.T. Poston (DK $8,700) – Throw out last week and focus on what JT does best – eat up Par 4s and excel T2G on Ross designs. A snazzy putter and excellent GPP play who could be a difference-maker.

Doc Redman (DK $8,500) – He’s getting more popular and the word is out about his wonderful ball striking, and he’s 3-for-3 since the break with a pair of Top 25s. Fade him at your own risk.

Christian Bezuidenhout (DK $8,300) – Solid all-around game, and the first-timer designation isn’t an issue with so many playing this track for the first time.

Brandt Snedeker (DK $7,900) – He’ll likely be popular at this price (way too low) and the pop stroke could work well here again. He’s just got to avoid the big numbers.

Also consider: Bubba Watson, Lucas Glover, Erik Van Rooyen, Adam Hadwin, Maverick McNealy

Value PGA DFS (DK $6,600 to 7,500):

Scott Stallings (DK $7,500) – Scott Stallings isn’t a name that normally inspires confidence, but he’s popping in my models and he’s coming off a big T6 at the Travelers.

Will Gordon (DK $7,300) – I’m a believer in making the most of opportunities and talent, and that’s been a great combo for Gordon. There’s a shot at a letdown but we’ve seen stories like this before.

Kyle Stanley (DK $7,100) – Stanley should have notched a Top 10 last week before the putter went cold, and he’s just too valuable at this price to pass up.

Sebastian Munoz (DK $7,100) – The Colombian gives himself chances and last week’s MC was a disappointment for a guy with such great ball-striking ability. The price is right for the upside in GPPs.

Emiliano Grillo (DK $7,100) – I’ve said it many times, if Grillo can get hot with the putter, he’s got a chance to win. He’s tops in the field for both SG: APP and Opportunities Gained.

Tyler Duncan (DK $7,000) – Two solid rounds sandwiching two so-so ones got him a T32 finish last week, and I like him to make the cut and finish in the Top 40 or so again. Worth a look.

Tom Hoge (DK $7,000) – He’s got an outside shot at a Top 20 here after a T37 last week and solid numbers in SG:APP and overall.

Cameron Tringale (DK $6,600) – Tringale finished T5 here last year, he’s super cheap, and he’s easily one of my favorite options this week for value. Homeboy checks all the boxes and got a start under his belt last week, even if he missed the cut.

More value golfers forGPPs: Joseph Bramlett, Brian Stuard, Mark Hubbard, Peter Uihlein, HarryHiggs, Matthew Wolff, Chesson Hadley, Andrew Putnam

Longshot Punts PGA DFS (DK $6,500 and under):

Cameron Percy (DK $6,500) – Eighth in my model and the weaker field should be les of an intimidator on Thursday and Friday. We need some cheap guys to make the cut and get hot, and he’s one.

Josh Teator (DK $6,400) – Another punt from my mixed model cheatsheet, Teator is an all-or-nothing type player who misses cuts (he made it here last year) or finishes well. Don’t go overboard – he’s worth a look in 5-7 percent of GPPs.

Tyler McCumber (DK $6,300) – Purely a gut play because of decent ball-striking/approach numbers and a golden opportunity here.

I know I’m crazy for considering: Wes Bryan (DK $6,500), Jonathan Byrd (DK $6,100), Roger Sloan (DK $6,200)

Thanks for checking this article PGA DFS Picks for the Rocket Mortgage Classic! Make sure to hop in the Win Daily Sports Discord Chat and look out for more articles on WinDailySports.com!

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