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Podcast 681 – 17 – 25 – With Tony George – College Basketball Conference Tournaments – Sports Betting

We have a great show for you today!  Tony George @TGeorgesports from Docs Sports @DocsSports is back to break down the big conference tournaments for the week!   First, Kiev talks about our March Madness Survivor and Bracket Tournaments over at www.theSZN.com/OB!  Make sure that you get in for the fun!  Next, Tony comes on and the guys get right into the top 6 teams in college basketball.  Then, Tony and Kiev give out a few sleepers for the big dance.   After that, the boys talk about 15 conference tournaments with a bunch of Free Plays and picks!  Next, Tony and Kiev give out their best bets at the end of the show.  Finally, Kiev recaps our plays.  Should you have any questions for the podcast, or games that you want us to cap during our shows, please message us at Info@TheOddsBreakers.com.  Have a wonderful week!

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College Basketball Sunday Fun-day play – Sports Betting – Iowa vs Nebraska

Iowa vs Nebraska -7.5 O/U 155.5 

Nebraska Cornhuskers:

  • Record: 17-13 (7-12 Big Ten)
  • Key Player: Brice Williams, averaging 20.4 points per game
  • Recent Performance: The Cornhuskers are on a four-game losing streak, including a double-overtime loss to Ohio State.
  • Team Stats:
    • Points: 75.6 PPG
    • Rebounds: 35.2 RPG
    • Assists: 14.3 APG
    • Steals: 6.8 SPG
    • Blocks: 4.1 BPG
    • Total Turnovers: 12.5 TPG
    • Field Goal %: 45.6%
    • Free Throw %: 74.7%
    • Three Point %: 32.9%

Iowa Hawkeyes:

  • Record: 15-15 (6-13 Big Ten)
  • Key Player: Payton Sandfort, averaging 16.1 points per game
  • Recent Performance: The Hawkeyes have lost five of their last six games, including a recent loss to Michigan State.
  • Team Stats:
    • Points: 82.3 PPG
    • Rebounds: 37.1 RPG
    • Assists: 15.2 APG
    • Steals: 7.1 SPG
    • Blocks: 3.9 BPG
    • Total Turnovers: 11.8 TPG
    • Field Goal %: 48.6%
    • Free Throw %: 70.9%
    • Three Point %: 37.6%

Prediction:  Given the high tempo of both teams and their defensive struggles, it’s likely that we see a lot of points.  The fast pace of play and the offensive capabilities of both teams make it a strong possibility that these teams will exceed the total.   Bad teams at the end of the basketball season tend to not play a heck of a lot of defense.  The Iowa Hawkeyes and Nebraska Cornhuskers are both known for their fast-paced style of play, which is reflected in their KenPom pace numbers. Iowa ranks 40th in the nation with an adjusted tempo of 70.3 possessions per game, while Nebraska ranks 51st with an adjusted tempo of 69.0 possessions per game.  This game hit the over 7 out of the last 8 times.

Over 155.5 – 2 stars

Podcast 680 – 16 – 25 – With Brian Edwards – College Hoops March 7-9 – UFC 313 – Sports Betting

The OddsBreakers Sports Betting Podcast
The OddsBreakers All Rights Reserved

We have a great show for you today!  Brian Edwards @VegasBEdwards from Major Wager and Vegas Insider is back to break down a huge weekend of sports! First, Kiev talks about some great contests that we have brewing up at the SZN and CBS Sports.  Next, Brian comes on and the guys start talking SEC and Badgers.   Then, we get into some buy low and sell high teams for the immediate future.   After that, Brian and Kiev get into some of the biggest games of the weekend with some Free Plays.  Next, the boys get into some UFC 313 with some more leans and plays that they like for the weekend.  Finally, Kiev recaps our plays.  Should you have any questions for the podcast, or games that you want us to cap during our shows, please message us at Info@TheOddsBreakers.com.  Have a wonderful week!

Link to wagering on our best bets from the show:  https://theoddsbreakers.com/mybookie/ Must Be 21+. Gambling Problem? Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER.

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College Basketball Saturday Super Plays – Sports Betting – Iowa State vs Kansas State

You can bet these lines right here at MyBookie!   https://www.theoddsbreakers.com/mybookie


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Kiev O'Neil's Sports Betting Stats and Records!  

56% 139-109-5 up 22 units in the 2023 NFL Season!

2024 MLB Season 111-93-11 up 8.3U

2023 MLB Season 146-123-7 up 11U

2023/2024 College Basketball up 9U

63% for 2022/2023 NBA sides and totals!   22-13 up 6.5 units.  14% ROI

55% All Time NFL Sides, Teasers, Parlays, Props and Totals!  5.21% ROI

56% 2022/2023 NFL Season 136-109-11 in Sides/Totals/Teasers/Season props up 38.5U

55% All Time College Football Sides, Teasers, Parlays, Props and Totals!  4.75% ROI

63% FOR 2022 COLLEGE BOWL SEASON UP 27 UNITS!

54% Lifetime All Plays in College Basketball  3% ROI

38% Lifetime UFC On All Plays 3% ROI

62% 2022 March Madness College Basketball Plays at 30% ROI!!!

 

Iowa State vs Kansas State +6.5 O/U 140.5

Matchup Details

  • Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025

  • Time: 1:30 p.m. EST

  • Location: Bramlage Coliseum, Manhattan, Kansas

  • Broadcast: CBS

Team Statistics

Statistic Iowa State Cyclones Kansas State Wildcats
Record 22-8 (13-7 Big 12) 15-15 (9-10 Big 12)
Points per Game 80.4 68.8
Opponent Points per Game 69.8 69.6
Field Goal % 43.8% 42.1%
3-Point %
Free Throw %
Rebounds per Game 29.8 30.6
Assists per Game 13.7 14.2

Steals per Game

8.9 7.6
Blocks per Game 3.6 3.4

Key Players

  • Iowa State Cyclones:

    • Keshon Gilbert: Averaging 13.8 points, 4.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game.

    • Curtis Jones: Averaging 12.3 points over the last 10 games.

  • Kansas State Wildcats:

    • David N’Guessan: Averaging 13.1 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.

    • Brendan Hausen: Averaging 2.4 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Recent Form

  • Iowa State Cyclones:

    • Last 10 games: 5-5

    • Averaging 72.8 points, 29.8 rebounds, 13.7 assists, 8.9 steals, and 3.6 blocks per game.

    • Opponents’ average points per game: 69.8

  • Kansas State Wildcats:

    • Last 10 games: 6-4

    • Averaging 68.8 points, 30.6 rebounds, 14.2 assists, 7.6 steals, and 3.4 blocks per game.

    • Opponents’ average points per game: 67.9

Key Factors for Kansas State

  1. Home Court Advantage: Kansas State has been solid at home, with a 10-4 record at Bramlage Coliseum. The Wildcats’ familiarity with their home court and the support of their fans can provide a significant boost.

  2. Recent Momentum: Kansas State has won two of their last three games, including a convincing 65-49 road win against Cincinnati. This recent success can build confidence and momentum heading into the matchup against Iowa State.

  3. Defensive Prowess: Kansas State is ninth in the Big 12 in limiting opponent scoring, allowing just 69.6 points per game. If they can maintain their defensive intensity and disrupt Iowa State’s offensive rhythm, they can keep the game within reach.

  4. Key Players: David N’Guessan, Kansas State’s leading scorer and rebounder, will be crucial in this matchup. His ability to score and dominate the boards can help the Wildcats stay competitive. Additionally, Brendan Hausen’s recent form, averaging 2.4 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games, can provide the necessary offensive spark.

Challenges for Iowa State

  1. Inconsistency: Iowa State has struggled with consistency, losing three of their last four games. This recent slump could be an opportunity for Kansas State to capitalize on their opponent’s vulnerabilities.

  2. Injuries: Iowa State has been dealing with injuries to key players, leading to some inconsistencies in their performance. If these issues persist, it could hinder their ability to dominate the game.

  3. Pressure: As a higher-ranked team, Iowa State faces the pressure of maintaining their status and securing a favorable position in the NCAA Tournament. This pressure can sometimes lead to mistakes and lapses in focus, which Kansas State can exploit.

Prediction:

While Iowa State is the favorite, Kansas State has the tools and factors in their favor to keep the game close. By leveraging their home court advantage, maintaining defensive intensity, and capitalizing on Iowa State’s recent struggles, the Wildcats can make this a competitive matchup. Kansas State is getting healthy at the right time as their best player Coleman Hawkins has returned to action helping lead this team to a tough road win at Cincinnati.   Being that the Clones just came off of an overtime loss against BYU, their hopes for becoming a four seed in their tournament have disappeared.  Kansas State will have some big advantages down low scoring near the basket as well as offensive rebounding.  Iowa State shoots only 50.8% effective FG on the road.   Kansas State shoots 51.5% effective FG at home.  Take the Cats.

Kansas State +6.5 – 2.5 stars
Kansas State ML +235 – .5 stars

Bonus Play – Wisconsin -10.5 – Penn State’s season is over as they now will not make it to the big 10 tournament.  They are 2-8 on the road.  Wisconsin needs to keep that 4 seed with a big win today on Senior Day.  Take Sconnie and lay those points.

College Basketball Friday Video Freebie – Sports Betting – Dayton vs VCU

College Basketball Wednesday Night Action

UCF (15-14, 6-12 Big 12) vs Oklahoma State (14-15, 6-12 Big 12)

Spread: UCF -6.5

Total: 165.5

The UCF Knights play host Wednesday night to the Oklahoma State Cowboys in a game that features two teams towards the bottom of the Big 12 trying to gain some momentum going into Kansas City next week. The Cowboys are aiming to complete a season sweep of the Knights, having secured a 104-95 win in their February 19th matchup in Stillwater.

Key Stats to Consider

  • UCF and Oklahoma State rank 1st and 2nd in the Big 12 in possessions per game with UCF averaging 75.8 and Oklahoma State averaging 73.2
  • UCF ranks 5th in the Big 12 in turnovers per possession at 16.1% while Oklahoma State ranks 15th in the Big 12 in that category at 18.5%
  • Oklahoma St. is 0-9 on the road in the Big 12 with an average margin of defeat of 16.2 points.

Thoughts

The first matchup between these two teams saw the Cowboys play arguably their best game of the season. They scored a season high 104 points and forced 20 turnovers leading to 26 points off those turnovers, while only turning the ball over 7 times themselves. These numbers should come back down to Earth tonight as the Knights have been one of the better teams in the Big 12 this year at taking care of the ball and will be back in Addition Financial Arena where they’ve won their last 2 home contests. Senior point guard Darius Johnson will be playing his final home game for the Knights after a 4 year career that propelled him towards the top of the all-time school leaderboard in many statistical categories. Johnson should be primed and ready for this matchup that presents a great opportunity for him to have one of his best performances of the season and it’s hard to imagine him and the Knights experiencing the same turnover woes that cost them the first matchup in Stillwater. The Cowboys have been pretty inept on the road all season and I have no reason to believe that this won’t continue tonight in a road game 1,300 miles away from home against a UCF team that’s motivated to send their seniors off on a high note.

The total in this game is set at a staggering 165.5 due to the rapid pace that these two teams play at. With the high volume of scoring opportunities that are expected in this game tonight there should be plenty of opportunities for the Knights to put their foot on the gas and run away with this one.

The Pick: UCF -6.5

2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational Preview & Picks

The Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill Club & Lodge marks the tenth event of the 2025 PGA TOUR season and the second event of the “Florida Swing.”

Pre-Tournament Storylines:

Joe Highsmith wins the Cognizant Classic

Joe Highsmith captured his first PGA TOUR victory at last week’s Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, becoming the first player to win after making the cut on the number (5-under) since Brandt Snedeker at the 2016 Farmers Insurance Open. Highsmith is the third first-time winner on TOUR this season, joining Brian Campbell (Mexico Open at VidantaWorld) and Thomas Detry (WM Phoenix Open).

Scottie Scheffler looks to defend his title at Bay Hill

World No. 1 and reigning FedExCup champion Scottie Scheffler is seeking his first official victory since the 2024 TOUR Championship. He returns this week to defend his title after his dominant five-stroke victory in 2024.

Tournament Information:

  • Dates: March 6th – March 9th, 2025
  • Location: Orlando, Florida, United States
  • Course: Bay Hill Club and Lodge
  • Course Type: Florida
  • Par: 72 (4x 3’s / 10x 4’s / 4x 5’s)
  • Length: 7,466 Yards
  • Format: 72-hole stroke play
  • Greens: TifEagle bermudagrass .110”
  • Fairways: Perennial ryegrass overseed .350”
  • Rough: Perennial ryegrass overseed 3”
  • Bunkers: 84 (4 acres)
  • Water Hazard(s): 8 (In-Play on 9 Holes)
  • Average Green Size: 7,500 sq. ft.
  • Stimpmeter: 12.0 ft.
  • Purse/ Winner: $20,000,000 /$4,000,000
  • FedEx Cup Points: 700
  • Field: 72 Players
  • Cut: Top 50 and Ties- 36 Holes
  • Playoff Format: Sudden Death (18, 18, 17 and then 18 repeated)
  • Course Scoring Average:
    • 2024: 72.33 (+0.33), Rank 10 of 51
    • 2023: 72.66 (+0.66), Rank 10 of 49
    • 2022: 73.89 (+1.89), Rank 4 of 50
  • Historic Cut Line:
  • 2024: +3
  • 2023: +3
  • 2022: +3

Social Media:

  • Course X: @APBayHill
  • Tournament X: @APinv

Course Information:

Course Architect:

  • Course Architect: Dick Wilson (1961)
  • Renovations: Arnold Palmer, ASGCA (2009)

Comparable Courses:

  • PGA National Resort (The Champion Course) – Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches – RESULTS
  • Quail Hollow Club – Wells Fargo Championship – RESULTS

    Comparable Location (Orlando, Florida):

    • PGA National – Palm Beach Gardens, Florida – Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches
    • TPC Sawgrass – Ponte Verda Beach, Florida – THE PLAYERS Championship
    • Innisbrook Resort – Palm Harbor, Florida – Valspar Championship

    Designer Link (Dick Wilson):

    • TPC Blue Monster at Doral – Dick Wilson (1962) – WGC-Cadillac Championship (2007-2016)
    • Cog Hill #4 – Dick Wilson (1964) – BMW Championship (2007, 2009-2011)

    Designer Link (Arnold Palmer):

    • TPC Twin Cities – Arnold Palmer (2000) – 3M Open

    Comparable Yardage (7,466 Yards):

    • El Cardonal at Diamante – 7,452 Yards – World Wide Technology Championship
    • Vidanta Vallarta – 7,456 Yards – Mexico Open at Vidanta
    • The Country Club of Jackson – 7,461 Yards – Sanderson Farms Championship
    • TPC Craig Ranch – 7,468 Yards – THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson
    • Tahoe Mountain Club (Old Greenwood) – 7,480 Yards – Barracuda Championship

    Comparable Greens (TifEagle bermudagrass .110”):

    • Kapalua (Plantation) – TifEagle bermudagrass .115” – Sentry ToC
    • PGA WEST (Nicklaus) – TifEagle bermudagrass .110” – The American Express
    • PGA National – TifEagle bermudagrass .120” – Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches
    • Port Royal Golf Course – TifEagle Bermudagrass .130″ – Butterfield Bermuda Championship
    • Sea Island Golf Club – TifEagle bermudagrass – RSM Classic

    Comparable Average Green Size (7,500 sq. ft.):

    • Riviera Country Club – 7,500 sq. ft. – The Genesis Invitational
    • TPC Summerlin – 7,400 sq. ft. – Shriners Children’s Open

    TV Information (all times ET):

    • Round 1: Thursday, March 6th, 2025
      • ESPN + (PGA TOUR Live) – 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
      • Golf Channel – 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
    • Round 2: Friday, March 7th, 2025
      • ESPN + (PGA TOUR Live) – 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
      • Golf Channel – 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
    • Round 3: Saturday, March 8th, 2025
      • ESPN + (PGA TOUR Live) – 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
      • Golf Channel – 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
      • NBC – 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
    • Round 4: Sunday, March 9th, 2025
      • ESPN + (PGA TOUR Live) – 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
      • Golf Channel – 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
      • NBC – 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM

    Weather:

    Course/ Tournament History:

    The Arnold Palmer Invitational is held annually at the Bay Hill Club and Lodge in Orlando, Florida. Originally established in 1966 as the Florida Citrus Open, the tournament moved to Bay Hill in 1979 and was renamed in honor of golf legend Arnold Palmer, who owned the club and served as its iconic host until his passing in 2016. Known for its challenging course setup, firm greens, and demanding closing stretch, the event attracts the world’s top golfers each year. Winners not only receive a coveted red cardigan sweater — a tribute to Palmer’s signature style — but also a three-year PGA Tour exemption, compared to the standard two years for most tour events.

    Bay Hill Club and Lodge, located in Orlando, Florida, was built in 1961, designed by architect Dick Wilson, and quickly gained a reputation for its challenging layout and scenic beauty. Arnold Palmer first visited Bay Hill in 1965, fell in love with the course, and officially purchased the property in 1974. Palmer made numerous design changes over the years, shaping Bay Hill into a world-class golf destination. The Championship Course, a par-72 stretching over 7,400 yards, is famous for its demanding fairways, thick rough, and the iconic 18th hole that tests players’ precision and nerve. Beyond the course, Bay Hill offers luxurious lodging, fine dining, and a rich atmosphere steeped in Palmer’s legacy.

    Previous Tournament Venues:

    DurationCourseLocation:
    1979-PresentBay Hill Club and LodgeOrlando, Florida
    1966-1978Rio Pinar Country ClubRio Pinar, Florida

    Previous Tournament Names:

    DurationTournament Name
    2007-PresentArnold Palmer Invitational
    1996-2006Bay Hill Invitational
    1989-1995Nestle Invitational
    1985-1988Hertz Bay Hill Classic
    1980-1984Bay Hill Classic
    1979Bay Hill Citrus Classic
    1972-1978Florida Citrus Open
    1970-1971Florida Citrus Invitational
    1966-1969Florida Citrus Open Invitational

    Tournament Records:

    • Most Wins at Event:
      • 8, Tiger Woods (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013)

    Course Records:

    • 72-Hole Record (Bay Hill Club and Lodge):
      • 264, Payne Stewart (1987)

    • 18-Hole Record (Bay Hill Club and Lodge):
      • 62, Andy Bean (Round 2, 1981), Greg Norman (Round 2, 1984), Adam Scott (Round 1, 2014)

    • Largest Margin of Victory (Bay Hill Club and Lodge):
      • 11 Strokes – Tiger Woods (2003)

    Course Guide/ Scorecard:

    Originally designed by Dick Wilson in 1961, Bay Hill Club and Lodge boasts a traditional Par 72 layout comprising four Par 3s, ten Par 4s, and four Par 5s.

    Spanning a formidable 7,466 yards, Bay Hill ranks among the PGA Tour’s lengthiest courses. While distance is advantageous, precision off the tee is equally essential, with the penal 3-inch ryegrass rough demanding accuracy. The course features narrow fairways, emphasizing the significance of proficient tee shots for contenders. With an ample average green size of 7,500 square feet, the course offers a fair challenge. However, in the past, holding greens has proven challenging, primarily due to approach shots often exceeding 200 yards. This year, the greens are expected to be more receptive, benefiting from recent rainfall.

    Bay Hill presents an array of hazards, including 84 bunkers, placing it 11th on the list of courses with the most bunkers players will encounter this year. Additionally, water comes into play on nine holes, ranking it ninth in water hazards on the PGA Tour. Furthermore, the forecast predicts significant wind, particularly on Saturday and Sunday, adding an extra layer of difficulty. With previous scoring averages indicating its challenging nature, Bay Hill stands as one of the toughest courses players will encounter all season.

    The four Par 3’s range between 199 yards and 231 yards. In terms of stats, the majority (two) of the Par 3’s range between 200 – 225 yards. Last year, all of the Par 3’s had a scoring average over par.

    No. 2, 231 yards, Par 3: From the tee the second hole appears long and demanding. It is. #2 is 231 yards from the Palmer tees. A smart shot is to favor the right side of the green. If you want you can let the slope help you onto the green. Missing the green left leaves you with a challenging up and down. Once you are on the green you must negotiate a green that tilts right to left.

    No. 17, 221 yards, Par 3: The 17th hole is a par 3 that measures 221 yards from the Palmer tees. The putting surface has the beach bunker short of the green. In addition there are bunkers left and long left of the green. In front and wrapping around the right of the green there is water. A tee shot that finds the green is well played and increases your chances for a par.

    There are ten Par 4’s at Bay Hill with the majority of those holes ranging between 450 and 500 yards. No. 13 is the shortest listed at 382 yards with the longest being No. 9, playing 480 yards. In terms of scoring average, the toughest Par 4 on the course last year was No. 9 (+0.299).

    No. 3, 434 yards, Par 4: Hole #3 is an attractive par 4 that measures 434 yards from the Palmer tees. Finding the fairway off the tee is the first step to securing a par. There is a lake to the left of the fairway and to the right is thick rough. The green is guarded by water left and bunkers left, right and long. Two accurate shots could offer you a reasonable chance for birdie.

    No. 18, 458 yards, Par 4: The 72nd hole of the Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented By MasterCard, the 18th hole is a par 4 458 yards from the Palmer tees. There is OB along the entire left side of this demanding par 4. To the right of the driving area is thick rough. Ideally, the tee shot should be played left of center. From the left side of the fairway you have options depending on the hole location. If your tee shot finds the rough the smart play is to play towards the left front of the green. If you choose to play aggressive there are bunkers left and long. If you have ever watched the Arnold Palmer Invitational you already knew about the pond guarding the front of the putting surface.

    There are four Par 5s on the course, No. 4, No. 6, No. 12, and No. 16. All of these holes had a scoring average under par in 2024. The easiest hole on the course last year was No. 16 with a scoring average of 4.48.

    No. 4, 561 yards, Par 5: The fourth hole is a par 5 that measures 561 yards from the Palmer tees. It plays uphill with a creek and OB running along the right side of the hole. It is reachable in two for the longest hitters. Avoid the bunker on the left side of the fairway if you choose to lay up. Regardless of whether you go for the green in two or not the left side of the green is shallow in depth. A miss to the right of the green drops off sharply leaving a difficult up and down. Accuracy is a must into this elevated target if you expect a par or better.

    No. 6, 555 yards, Par 5: The 6th hole at Bay Hill is one of the most recognizable holes on the course. It is a par 5 that measures 555 yards from the Palmer tees. With three aggressive swings at conservative targets a birdie opportunity awaits. An overly aggressive swing at an aggressive target could lead to double digits. From the tee you should aim towards the fairway bunkers. If you are playing your second shot from the fairway aim towards the bunker on the right side of the fairway. The green is deep so double check your yardage for your third shot. A par or better is within reach.

    Featured/ Signature Hole(s): 6

    Key Statistics:

    The Arnold Palmer Invitational takes place at Bay Hill Club and Lodge. Here are the key statistics to keep an eye on for this week’s event.

    StatisticsPGA Tour AverageBay Hill Club and Lodge
    Driving Distance (Yards)284.00278.08
    Driving Accuracy62%64%
    GIR Percentage66%60%
    Avg GIR Prox to Hole (Feet)29.1730.50
    Scrambling Percentage58%57%
    Avg 3 Putts / Round0.550.56

    Per DataGolf, this is the favored skillset at Bay Hill Club and Lodge.

    • Strokes Gained: Off the Tee
      • Success this week will hinge on players’ ability to position themselves effectively off the tee. While the course’s considerable length underscores the significance of distance, precision holds equal importance.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Taylor Pendrith
        • Daniel Berger
        • Taylor Moore
        • Davis Thompson
        • Rory McIlroy
        • Aldrich Potgieter
        • Robert MacIntyre
        • Sam Stevens
        • Isaiah Salinda

    • Strokes Gained: Approach
      • Excellent approach play has been a key factor in determining success at this week’s tournament. Over the past five editions of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, every winner has ranked 18th or better in Strokes Gained: Approach amongst the field.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Justin Thomas
        • J.J. Spaun
        • Sepp Straka
        • Nick Taylor
        • Maverick McNealy
        • Scottie Scheffler
        • Lucas Glover
        • Tommy Fleetwood
        • Tom Kim
        • Jake Knapp

    • Strokes Gained: Putting (Bermudagrass)
      • The green complexes at Bay Hill Club and Lodge are TifEagle bermudagrass. Over the past three editions of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, every winner has ranked 17th or better in Strokes Gained: Putting amongst the field.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Jacob Bridgeman
        • Collin Morikawa
        • Thomas Detry
        • Sam Burns
        • Maverick McNealy
        • Russell Henley
        • Max Greyserman
        • Hideki Matsuyama
        • Denny McCarthy
        • Matthieu Pavon

    • Par 3 Scoring: 200-225 Yards
      • Two of the four Par 3’s at Bay Hill range between 200-225 Yards.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Maverick McNealy
        • Xander Schauffle
        • Nick Dunlap
        • Aldrich Potgieter
        • Sam Burns
        • Matt Fitzpatrick
        • Brian Campbell
        • Austin Eckroat
        • Lucas Glover
        • Min Woo Lee

    • Par 4 Scoring: 450-500 Yards
      • Five of the ten Par 4’s at Bay Hill range between 450-500 Yards.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Xander Schauffele
        • Daniel Berger
        • Justin Thomas
        • Sam Stevens
        • Nick Taylor
        • Alex Smalley
        • J.J. Spaun
        • Joe Highsmith
        • Russell Henley
        • Michael Kim

    • Par 5 Scoring: 550-600 Yards
      • Three of the four Par 5’s at Bay Hill range between 550-600 Yards.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Sepp Straka
        • Taylor Moore
        • Alex Smalley
        • Si Woo Kim
        • Taylor Pendrith
        • J.T. Poston
        • Lee Hodges
        • Jake Knapp
        • Adam Scott
        • Billy Horschel

    • Driving Distance Gained
      • Bay Hill Club & Lodge is one of the longest courses on Tour playing over 7,400 Yards.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Aldrich Potgieter
        • Rory McIlroy
        • Min Woo Lee
        • Cameron Young
        • Byeong Hun An
        • Taylor Pendrith
        • Max Greyserman
        • Ludvig Aberg
        • Isaiah Salinda
        • Xander Schauffele

    • Bogey Avoidance
      • Bay Hill ranks among the most challenging courses on the PGA Tour. Patience will be key this week as players navigate the layout and capitalize on limited scoring chances. Throughout the event, players must strive to minimize any black numbers scores on their cards.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Xander Schauffele
        • Sam Stevens
        • Michael Kim
        • J.J. Spaun
        • Justin Thomas
        • Daniel Berger
        • Brian Harman
        • Scottie Scheffler
        • Alex Smalley
        • Hideki Matsuyama

    • Scrambling Gained
      • Players who excel at getting up and down from tough spots gain a significant edge in avoiding bogeys and keeping their rounds on track. With smaller-than-average greens and the unpredictable nature of Poa annua surfaces, even the best iron players frequently miss their targets. Skilled scramblers can turn difficult situations into par saves, gaining strokes on the field while others struggle.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Brian Campbell
        • Harris English
        • Michael Kim
        • Patrick Rodgers
        • Alex Smalley
        • Christiaan Bezuidenhout
        • Wyndham Clark
        • Andrew Novak
        • Sam Stevens
        • Daniel Berger

    • Proximity Gained: 200+ Yards
      • Bay Hill Club & Lodge sees a significantly higher volume of approach shots from the 200+ yard range compared to the PGA Tour average.
    • Leaders in Proximity Gained 200+ Yards in the last 24 Rounds:
      • Denny McCarthy
      • Xander Schauffele
      • Max Greyserman
      • Akshay Bhatia
      • Kris Ventura
      • Viktor Hovland
      • Nick Dunlap
      • Ludvig Aberg
      • Taylor Pendrith
      • Tom Hoge

    • Comparable Courses and Event History
      • The Data Golf Course History Tool suggests that past success at Bay Hill Club & Lodge has been a strong predictor of future performance in this tournament.
    • Leaders in this category (Stokes Gained Total at Bay Hill Club & Lodge):
      • Scottie Scheffler
      • Rory McIlroy
      • Sungjae Im
      • Max Homa
      • Corey Conners
      • Matthew Fitzpatrick
      • Harris English
      • Keegan Bradley
      • Viktor Hovland
      • Chris Kirk

    The Field:

    This year’s Arnold Palmer Invitational will feature a total of 72 competitors. Among them are eighteen of the top twenty players in the Official World Golf Ranking.

    Basis of qualification for each entrant this week:

    • Current FedExCup Points List (projected thru Cognizant Classic)
    • Top 30 OWGR – PGA TOUR Members (projected thru Cognizant Classic)
    • Top 50 on Prior Year’s FedExCup Points List
    • Aon Swing 5 (projected through the Cognizant Classic)
    • Aon Next 10 (projected through the Cognizant Classic)
    • Sponsor Exemptions – Members not otherwise exempt

    Previous Winners in the Field (Event):

    • Scottie Scheffler (2024, 2022), Rory McIlroy (2018), Jason Day (2016)

    Debutants in the Field:

    Akshay Bhatia, Aldrich Potgieter, Andrew Novak, Brian Campbell, Harry Hall, Isaiah Salinda, Jackson Koivun, Max Greyserman, Nicolas Echavarria, Rafael Campos, Samuel Stevens

    Exemptions:

    • Rafael Campos – Sponsor Exemptions – Members not otherwise exempt
    • Mackenzie Hughes – Sponsor Exemptions – Members not otherwise exempt
    • Jackson Koivun – Unrestricted Exemption – Palmer Cup Award Winner
    • Min Woo Lee – Sponsor Exemptions – Members not otherwise exempt
    • Justin Rose – Sponsor Exemptions – Members not otherwise exempt

    Notable Withdraws/ Changes:

    • N/A

    Tee Times & Groupings:

    https://twitter.com/PGATOURComms/status/1897002322506793388

    The Odds:

    Here are the current favorites for this week’s event:

    Tournament Props:

    Playoff:

    • Will There Be a Playoff at the Arnold Palmer Invitational? (Yes +350 / No -500)

    The Arnold Palmer Invitational has not been decided by a playoff since 1999.

    Hole-in-One:

    • Will There Be A Hole-in-One at the Arnold Palmer Invitational? (Yes +155/ No -215)

    Recent Horses for Courses (Bay Hill Club and Lodge):

    Arnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer Invitational
    Bay Hill Club and LodgeBay Hill Club and LodgeBay Hill Club and LodgeBay Hill Club and LodgeBay Hill Club and Lodge
    GolferEvents PlayedSG: Total (Event)20242023202220212020
    Scottie Scheffler4+45.71WONT4WONT15
    Rory McIlroy10+36.87T21T2T13T10T5
    Sungjae Im6+30.91T18T21T20T213
    Max Homa5+29.91T8T14T17T10T24
    Keegan Bradley13+23.89T36T10T11T10T42
    Harris English12+25.73T21T2T26T9
    Viktor Hovland6+20.91T36T10T2T49T42
    Chris Kirk12+19.26T44T39T5T8
    Will Zalatoris4+18.29T4T53T38T10
    Russell Henley8+16.09T4T53T10
    Matthew Fitzpatrick10+26.19MCT14T9T10T9
    Corey Conners6+27.94T18T21T113MC
    Cameron Young3+14.07T36T10T13
    Justin Thomas3+9.92T12T21

    Recent Donkeys for Courses (Bay Hill Club and Lodge):

    Arnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer Invitational
    Bay Hill Club and LodgeBay Hill Club and LodgeBay Hill Club and LodgeBay Hill Club and LodgeBay Hill Club and Lodge
    GolferEvents PlayedSG: Total (Event)20242023202220212020
    Justin Rose19-14.30MCMCMCWDMC
    Sepp Straka5-23.74T57MCMCMCMC
    Nicolai Hojgaard2-5.59MCMC
    JT Poston4-19.0055MCMC
    Min Woo Lee3-20.23T44MCMC

    Previous Winners Scores, Prices, and Strokes Gained (Rank at Tournament):

    • 2024: Scottie Scheffler (-15)
      • Price: 11-2
     SG: Off the TeeSG: Tee to GreenSG: ApproachSG: Around the GreenSG: Putting
    Scottie Scheffler1st1st12th1st5th
    • 2023: Kurt Kitayama (-9)
      • Price: 200-1
     SG: Off the TeeSG: Tee to GreenSG: ApproachSG: Around the GreenSG: Putting
    Kurt Kitayama42nd14th18th18th2nd
    • 2022: Scottie Scheffler (-5)
      • Price: 16-1
     SG: Off the TeeSG: Tee to GreenSG: ApproachSG: Around the GreenSG: Putting
    Scottie Scheffler48th8th1st28th17th
    • 2021: Bryson Dechambeau (-11)
      • Price: 12-1
     SG: Off the TeeSG: Tee to GreenSG: ApproachSG: Around the GreenSG: Putting
    Bryson Dechambeau1st2nd9th30th21st
    • 2020: Tyrrell Hatton (-5)
      • Price: 55-1
     SG: Off the TeeSG: Tee to GreenSG: ApproachSG: Around the GreenSG: Putting
    Tyrrell Hatton24th5th2nd27th15th

    Previous Winners Incoming Form (Last 5 Starts):

    • 2024: Scottie Scheffler
      • T10 – The Genesis Invitational (PGA)
      • T3 – WM Phoenix Open (PGA)
      • T6 – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (PGA)
      • T17 – The American Express (PGA)
      • T5 – The Sentry (PGA)
    • 2023: Kurt Kitayama
      • MC – The Genesis Invitational (PGA)
      • T23 – WM Phoenix Open (PGA)
      • T29 – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (PGA)
      • MC – Farmers Insurance Open (PGA)
      • T73 – Sony Open in Hawaii (PGA)

    • 2022: Scottie Scheffler
      • T7 – The Genesis Invitational (PGA)
      • WON – WM Phoenix Open (PGA)
      • T20 – Farmers Insurance Open (PGA)
      • T25 – The American Express (PGA)
      • 2 – Hero World Challenge (PGA)

    • 2021: Bryson Dechambeau
      • T22 – WGC-Workday Championship (PGA)
      • MC – The Genesis Invitational (PGA)
      • T18 – Saudi International (DPWT)
      • T7 – Sentry Tournament of Champions (PGA)
      • T34 – The Masters (MAJ)

    • 2020: Tyrrell Hatton
      • T6 – WGC-Mexico Championship (PGA)
      • T14 – WGC-HSBC Champions (PGA)
      • T6 – THE CJ CUP (PGA)
      • 46 – DP World Tour Championship, Dubai (DPWT)
      • WON – Turkish Airlines Open (DPWT)

    Previous Winners Finishes at Event:

    2024: Scottie Scheffler

    Arnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer Invitational
    Bay Hill Club & LodgeBay Hill Club & LodgeBay Hill Club & Lodge
     202320222020
    Scottie SchefflerT4WONT15

    2023: Kurt Kitayama

    • Tournament Debut

    2022: Scottie Scheffler

    Arnold Palmer Invitational
    Bay Hill Club & Lodge
     2020
    Scottie SchefflerT15

    2021: Bryson Dechambeau

    Arnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer Invitational
    Bay Hill Club & LodgeBay Hill Club & LodgeBay Hill Club & LodgeBay Hill Club & Lodge
     2020201920182016
    Bryson Dechambeau4T462T27

    2020: Tyrrell Hatton

    Arnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer InvitationalArnold Palmer Invitational
    Bay Hill Club & LodgeBay Hill Club & LodgeBay Hill Club & Lodge
     201920182017
    Tyrrell HattonT29T69T4

    Picks:

    Outrights

    Collin Morikawa (+2000) – DraftKings

    Justin Thomas (+2500) – DraftKings

    Patrick Cantlay (+2800) – FanDuel

    Shane Lowry (+5000) – FanDuel

    Best of luck, and as always you can find me on Twitter @GatorBetting and Instagram @Gator_Sports_Betting. Any feedback whether positive or negative is always encouraged.

    2025 Puerto Rico Open Preview & Picks

    The Puerto Rico Open at Grand Reserve Golf Club serves as an alternate event to this week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational.

    Tournament Information:

    • Dates: March 6th – March 9th, 2025
    • Location: Rio Grande, Puerto Rico
    • Course: Grand Reserve Golf Club
    • Course Type: Resort/ Coastal
    • Par: 72 (4x 3’s / 10x 4’s / 4x 5’s)
    • Length: 7,506 Yards
    • Format: 72-hole stroke play
    • Greens: Seadwarf Paspalum
    • Fairways: Seashore Paspalum
    • Rough: Seashore Paspalum 2.5″
    • Bunkers: 63
    • Water Hazard(s): – (In-Play on 12 Holes)
    • Average Green Size: 6,500 sq. ft.
    • Stimpmeter: 11.0 ft.
    • Purse/ Winner: $4,000,000 /$720,000
    • FedEx Cup Points: 300
    • Field: 132 Players
    • Cut: Top 65 and Ties – 36 Holes
    • Playoff Format: Sudden Death (18 repeated)
    • Course Scoring Average:
      • 2024: 70.07 (-1.93), Rank 38 of 51
      • 2023: 71.25 (-0.75), Rank 27 of 49
      • 2022: 71.34 (-0.66), Rank 23 of 50
    • Historic Cut Line:
    • 2024: -4
    • 2023: -1
    • 2022: -1

    Social Media:

    • Course X: @PuertoRicoOpen
    • Tournament X: N/A

    Course Information:

    Course Architect:

    • Course Architect: Tom Kite (2006)
    • Renovations: N/A

    Comparable Courses:

    • Corales Golf Course – Corales Puntacana Championship – RESULTS
    • El Cardonal at Diamante – World Wide Technology Championship – RESULTS
    • Vidanta Vallarta – Mexico Open at Vidanta – RESULTS

    Comparable Location (Rio Grande, Puerto Rico):

    • Corales Golf Course – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – Corales Puntacana Championship

    Designer Link (Tom Kite):

    • Liberty National – Tom Kite (2006) – The Barclays 2009, 2013/ The Nothern Trust 2019, 2021

    Comparable Yardage (7,506 Yards):

    • Augusta National Golf Club – 7,510 Yards – Masters Tournament
    • Quail Hollow Club – 7,521 Yards – Wells Fargo Championship

    Comparable Greens (Seadwarf Paspalum):

    • Vidanta Vallarta – Paspalum – Mexico Open at Vidanta
    • Corales Golf Course – Supreme paspalum .100” – Corales Puntacana Championship
    • El Cardonal at Diamante – Platinum paspalum .100” – World Wide Technology Championship

    Comparable Average Green Size (6,500 sq. ft.):

    • TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course) – 6,400 sq. ft. – Valero Texas Open
    • Augusta National Golf Club – 6,486 sq. ft. – Masters Tournament
    • TPC Twin Cities – 6,500 sq. ft. – 3M Open
    • Quail Hollow Club – 6,578 sq. ft. – Wells Fargo Championship

    TV Information (all times ET):

    • Round 1: Thursday, March 6th, 2025
      • Golf Channel – 10:00 PM – 1:00 PM
    • Round 2: Friday, March 7th, 2025
      • Golf Channel – 10:00 PM – 1:00 PM
    • Round 3: Saturday, March 8th, 2025
      • Golf Channel – 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
    • Round 4: Sunday, March 9th, 2025
      • Golf Channel – 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM

    Weather:

    Course/ Tournament History:

    The Puerto Rico Open originally took place from 1956 to 1967 as part of the PGA-sponsored Caribbean Tour, holding its spot until 1965 before shifting later in the calendar. After a long hiatus, the tournament was revived in 2004 and 2005 as part of the Tour de las Américas, eventually joining the PGA Tour in 2008. Since then, it has found a permanent home at the Grand Reserve Country Club in Río Grande, previously known as Trump International Puerto Rico and Coco Beach Resort. The club features two 18-hole courses — the “Championship” and the “International” — with the tournament contested on the “Championship” course.

    As an alternate event on the PGA Tour, the Puerto Rico Open offers 300 FedEx Cup points and 24 Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points to the winner. While a victory doesn’t grant a Masters invitation, it does secure a two-year PGA Tour exemption and a spot in the PGA Championship. The tournament also provides eight sponsor exemptions — four reserved for players from Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, and four unrestricted — adding a unique international flair to the field.

    Previous Tournament Venues:

    DurationCourseLocation:
    2008-PresentGrand Reserve Golf ClubRio Grande, Puerto Rico

    Previous Tournament Names:

    DurationTournament Name
    2019-2024Puerto Rico Open
    2018No Tournament
    2008-2017Puerto Rico Open
    2006-2007No Tournament
    2004-2005American Express Puerto Rico Open
    1968−2003No Tournament
    1956-1967Puerto Rico Open

    Tournament Records:

    • Most Wins at Event:
      • 2, Michael Bradley (2009, 2011)

    Course Records:

    • 72-Hole Record (Grand Reserve Golf Club):
      • 267, Chesson Hadley (2014), Nico Echavarria (2023)

    • 18-Hole Record (Grand Reserve Golf Club):
      • 62, Jhonattan Vegas (Round 4, 2020)

    • Largest Margin of Victory (Grand Reserve Golf Club):
      • 6 Strokes – Ryan Brehm (2022)

    Course Guide/ Scorecard:

    Originally designed by Tom Kite in 2006, the ‘Champion’ Course at Grand Reserve Country Club boasts a standard Par 72 layout with four Par 3’s, ten Par 4’s, and four Par 5’s.

    Stretching across 7,506 yards, the Champion Course stands as one of the lengthiest courses on the PGA Tour. Drivers capable of hitting long distances will hold a notable advantage, as this week emphasizes distance over accuracy off the tee. With the rough measuring a modest 2.5 inches, it poses less of a threat, while the generous average green size of 6,500 square feet enhances the course’s playability.

    Coming in 2025, Grand Reserve Golf Club will unveil a re-routed course, flipping the nines. The round will now finish with a challenging 236-yard par 3 followed by a 450-yard par 4 as the closing holes.

    This event tends to be a “birdie fest,” judging from previous winners’ scores. The primary defenses of the course lie in water hazards, which come into play on 12 holes, and the wind that blows in from the Atlantic Ocean.

    Featured/ Signature Hole(s): 12

    Key Statistics:

    The Puerto Rico Open takes place at Grand Reserve Golf Club Here are the key statistics to keep an eye on for this week’s event.

    StatisticsPGA Tour AverageGrand Reserve Golf Club
    Driving Distance (Yards)283.80N/A
    Driving Accuracy62%60%
    GIR Percentage66%68%
    Avg GIR Prox to Hole (Feet)29.17N/A
    Scrambling Percentage58%62%
    Avg 3 Putts / Round0.550.39

    • Strokes Gained: Off the Tee
      • Success this week will hinge on players’ ability to position themselves effectively off the tee. While the course’s considerable length underscores the significance of distance, precision holds equal importance.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Cameron Champ
        • Alejandro Tosti
        • Joseph Bramlett
        • Rico Hoey
        • Steven Fisk
        • Bud Cauley
        • Samuel Stevens
        • Matthias Schmid
        • Niklas Norgaard Moller
        • Scott Piercy

    • Strokes Gained: Approach
      • Excellent approach play has been a key factor in determining success at this week’s tournament.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Antoine Rozner
        • David Lipsky
        • Henrik Norlander
        • Joel Dahmen
        • Joe Highsmith
        • Matthias Schmid
        • David Skinns
        • Kevin Roy
        • Rikuya Hoshino
        • Matthew NeSmith

    • Strokes Gained: Putting (Paspalum)
      • The green complexes at Grand Reserve Golf Club are Seadwarf Paspalum.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Chan Kim
        • Cameron Champ
        • Davis Riley
        • Aaron Baddeley
        • Quade Cummins
        • Martin Trainer
        • Trace Crowe
        • James Hahn
        • Joel Dahmen
        • Takumi Kanaya

    • Par 3 Scoring: 200-225 Yards
      • Two of the four Par 3’s at Grand Reserve Golf Club range between 200-225 Yards.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Brian Stuard
        • Chris Stroud
        • Rikuya Hoshino
        • Kevin Roy
        • Takumi Kanaya
        • John Pak
        • Angel Ayora
        • Garrick Higgo
        • Kevin Chappell
        • William Mouw

    • Par 4 Scoring: 400-450 Yards
      • Six of the ten Par 4’s at Grand Reserve Golf Club range from 400-450 Yards.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Greyson Sigg
        • Kevin Roy
        • Bud Cauley
        • Joel Dahmen
        • Brandt Snedeker
        • William McGirt
        • Zac Blair
        • Blades Brown
        • Matthew Jordan
        • Braden Thornberry

    • Par 5 Scoring: 500-550, 600-650 Yards
      • Two of the four Par 5’s at Grand Reserve Golf Club range between 500-550 Yards.
      • Two of the four Par 5’s at Grand Reserve Golf Club range between 600-650 Yards.
      • Leaders in Par 5 Scoring: 500-550 in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Kevin Tway
        • Cameron Champ
        • Jackson Suber
        • Ryan Brehm
        • Noah Goodwin
        • Matthias Schmid
        • Hayden Springer
        • Lanto Griffin
        • Steven Fisk
        • Rico Hoey
      • Leaders in Par 5 Scoring: 600-650 in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Andrew Novak
        • Vincent Whaley
        • Trey Mullinax
        • Joseph Bramlett
        • Scott Piercy
        • Braden Thornberry
        • Kyoung-Hoon Lee
        • Jeremy Paul
        • Nick Hardy
        • Henrik Norlander

    • Driving Distance Gained
      • Grand Reserve Golf Club is one of the longest courses on Tour, playing over 7,500 Yards. Over the past three editions of the Puerto Rico Open, every winner has ranked 20th or better in Driving Distance amongst the field.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Cameron Champ
        • Chris Gotterup
        • Alejandro Tosti
        • Pierceson Coody
        • Tim Widing
        • Michael Thorbjornsen
        • Ryan Brehm
        • Joseph Bramlett
        • Trevor Cone
        • Norman Xiong

    • Birdies or Better Gained
      • Grand Reserve Golf Club historically demands low scoring to contend. With each of the last three winners posting a winning score of -19 or better, players need to convert birdie opportunities.
      • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Joe Highsmith
        • Niklas Norgaard Moller
        • Alejandro Tosti
        • Wesley Bryan
        • Michael Thorbjornsen
        • Patrick Fishburn
        • Ryan Gerard
        • Danny Walker
        • Joel Dahmen
        • Trace Crowe

    • Proximity Gained: 200+ Yards
      • Grand Reserve Golf Club sees a significantly higher volume of approach shots from the 200+ yard range compared to the PGA Tour average.
      • Leaders in Proximity Gained 200+ Yards in the last 24 Rounds:
        • Nick Hardy
        • Rikuya Hoshino
        • Zac Blair
        • Kevin Chappell
        • Jackson Suber
        • Kevin Roy
        • Troy Merritt
        • Wesley Bryan
        • Alejandro Tosti
        • Joseph Bramlett

    • Comparable Courses and Event History
      • The Data Golf Course History Tool suggests that past success at Grand Reserve Golf Club has been a strong predictor of future performance in this tournament.
    • Leaders in this category (Stokes Gained Total at Grand Reserve Golf Club):
      • Brice Garnett
      • Ryan Brehm
      • Vincent Whaley
      • Matthias Schmid
      • Ben Kohles
      • Henrik Norlander
      • Martin Laird
      • Bill Haas
      • Richy Werenski
      • Max McGreevy

    The Field:

    This year’s Puerto Rico Open will feature a total of 132 competitors. Among them are just six of the top one hundred players in the Official World Golf Ranking.

    Basis of qualification for each entrant this week:

    • Tournament Winner in Past Two Seasons
    • Top Finishers from Korn Ferry Tour Medical
    • Top 5 Finishers and Ties from PGA TOUR Q-School
    • Top 30 on the FedExCup Playoffs & Eligibility Points List
    • Top 125 FedExCup Fall Point Lists
    • Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Sponsors Exemptions – PGA TOUR Member not otherwise exempt
    • Players 2-30 on the Prior Season Korn Ferry Tour Points List
    • PGA TOUR University #1 – Prior Season
    • PGA Section Champion\Player of the Year
    • PGA Club Professional Champion – 6 Events
    • Past Champion of Respective Event
    • Minor Medical Extension
    • Major Medical Extension
    • Leading 10 players (not otherwise exempt) on DP World Tour
    • Designated Sponsor Exemption
    • Commissioner Exemption – 2 Foreign Players
    • Career Money Exemption
    • Beyond 150 on Prior Seasons FEC Playoffs & Eligibility Points List
    • 300 PGA TOUR Career Cuts Made
    • 126-150 on FedExCup Fall Points List

    Previous Winners in the Field (Event):

    • Brice Garnett (2024), Ryan Brehm (2022), Martin Trainer (2019), Chesson Hadley (2014)

    Debutants in the Field:

    Andrew Filbert, Antoine Rozner, Ben Polland, Ben Warian, Blades Brown, Braden Thornberry, Brett White, Connor Williams, Cristobal Del Solar, Danny Walker, Danny Willett, David Lipsky, Dylan Frittelli, Gustavo Rangel, Hayden Buckley, Jackson Suber, Jeremy Paul, John Pak, Kaito Onishi, Karl Vilips, Kevin Velo, Kieron Van Wyk, Lanto Griffin, Mason Andersen, Matteo Manassero, Matthew Jordan, Matthew Riedel, Max Kennedy, Michael Thorbjornsen, Niklas Norgaard Moller, Paul Peterson, Philip Knowles, Quade Cummins, Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen, Reinaldo Simoni, Ricky Castillo, Rikuya Hoshino, Santiago De La Fuente, Steven Fisk, Takumi Kanaya, Taylor Dickson, Taylor Montgomery, Thomas Rosenmueller, Thriston Lawrence, Tim Widing, Vince Covello, Will Chandler, William Mouw

    Players with Puerto Rico ties in the Field:

    Birthplace:

    • Kelvin Hernandez – Caguas, Puerto Rico
    • Chris Nido – San Juan, Puerto Rico
    • Gustavo Rangel – Guaynabo, Puerto Rico

    Exemptions:

    • Angel Ayora – Designated Sponsor Exemption
    • Blades Brown – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Santiago de la Fuente – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Jason Dufner – Sponsors Exemptions – PGA TOUR Member not otherwise exempt
    • Justin Hastings – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Kelvin Hernandez – Designated Sponsor Exemption
    • Matthew Jordan – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Max Kennedy – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen – Commissioner Exemption – 2 Foreign Players
    • Chris Nido – Designated Sponsor Exemption
    • Ryan Palmer – Career Money Exemption
    • Gustavo Rangel – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Reinaldo Simoni – Designated Sponsor Exemption
    • Brandt Snedeker – Career Money Exemption
    • Kieron Van Wyk – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Ben Warian – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Brett White – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
    • Connor Williams – Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted

    Notable Withdraws/ Changes:

    • David Skinns WD / Jonathan Byrd IN
    • Fabian Gomez WD / Adam Long IN
    • Vincent Norrman WD / Sung Kang IN
    • Joel Dahmen WD / Kyle Stanley IN
    • Brendon Todd WD / Sangmoon Bae IN
    • Max McGreevy WD / Brian Stuard IN
    • Joe Highsmith WD / Ryan Armour IN
    • Martin Trainer WD / Ben Crane IN
    • Greyson Sigg WD / David Hearn IN
    • Andrew Novak WD / Dylan Frittelli IN
    • Sam Stevens WD / Jim Herman IN
    • Dylan Frittelli WD / Jimmy Walker IN
    • Jackson Suber WD / Chris Stroud IN

    Tee Times & Groupings:

    The Odds:

    Here are the current favorites for this week’s event:

    Tournament Props:

    Playoff:

    • Will There Be a Playoff at the Puerto Rico Open? (Yes +350 / No -500)

    Since becoming an official PGA TOUR event in 2008 and moving to Grand Reserve Golf Club this tournament has been decided by a playoff four times.

    2024: Brice Garnett defeated Erik Barnes

    2016: Tony Finau defeated Steve Marino

    2015: Alex Čejka defeated Jon Curran, Emiliano Grillo, Tim Petrovic, and Sam Saunders

    2011: Michael Bradley defeated Troy Matteson

    Hole-in-One:

    • Will There Be A Hole-in-One at the Puerto Rico Open? (Yes -135/ No +100)

    Recent Horses for Courses (Grand Reserve Golf Club):

    Puerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico Open
    Grand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf Club
    GolferEvents PlayedSG: Total (Event)20242023202220212020
    Brice Garnett8+35.70WONT48T7T5T20
    Martin Laird3+15.00T10T6
    Ben Kohles4+16.11T6T16
    Vincent Whaley3+19.23T18T15T9
    Samuel Stevens2+12.56T18T15
    Adam Schenk3+11.13T27T14
    Matthias Schmid2+17.56T10T33
    Henrik Norlander5+15.45T15T15T44
    Ryan Brehm5+29.25T55WONT11T35
    Aaron Baddeley5+13.35T23T28T30

    Recent Donkeys for Courses (Grand Reserve Golf Club):

    Puerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico Open
    Grand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf Club
    GolferEvents PlayedSG: Total (Event)20242023202220212020
    David Hearn9-11.25MCMCMCMC
    Carl Yuan2-4.80MCMC
    Alejandro Tosti2-5.49MCMC
    Martin Trainer6-32.48MCT64MCMCMC
    Ben Crane5-21.04MC68MC
    Ryan Armour6-10.04MCT61MC
    Nick Watney3-8.80MCT57MC
    Chris Nido5-6.31T49MCMCMC

    Previous Winners Scores and Prices:

    • 2024: Brice Garnett (-19)
      • Price: 150-1

    • 2023: Nicolas Echavarria (-21)
      • Price: 125-1

    • 2022: Ryan Brehm (-20)
      • Price: 70-1

    • 2021: Branden Grace (-19)
      • Price: 20-1

    • 2020: Viktor Hovland (-20)
      • Price: 12-1

    Previous Winners Incoming Form (Last 5 Starts):

    • 2024: Brice Garnett
      • T51 – Astara Golf Championship (KFT)
      • MC – The Panama Championship (KFT)
      • MC – The Bahamas Great Abaco Classic (KFT)
      • MC – The RSM Classic (PGA)
      • T30 – Butterfield Bermuda Championship (PGA)

    • 2023: Nicolas Echavarria
      • MC – The Honda Classic
      • MC – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
      • MC – Farmers Insurance Open
      • MC – The American Express
      • T12 – Sony Open in Hawaii

    • 2022: Ryan Brehm
      • T38 – LECOM Suncoast Classic (KFT)
      • T9 – Astara Golf Championship (KFT)
      • T32 – The Panama Championship (KFT)
      • T18 – The Bahamas Great Abaco Classic (KFT)
      • MC – Korn Ferry Tour Championship (KFT)

    • 2021: Branden Grace
      • T20 – The Genesis Invitational (PGA)
      • T34 – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (PGA)
      • MC – Sony Open in Hawaii (PGA)
      • T40 – Mayakoba Golf Classic (PGA)
      • T30 – The RSM Classic (PGA)

    • 2020: Viktor Hovland
      • T38 – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (PGA)
      • MC – Waste Management Phoenix Open (PGA)
      • T23 – Omega Dubai Desert Classic (DPWT)
      • MC – Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship (DPWT)
      • MC – Mayakoba Golf Classic (PGA)

    Previous Winners Finishes at Event:

    2024: Brice Garnett

    Puerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico Open
    Grand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf Club
     2023202220212020201620152014
    Brice GarnettT48T7T5T20T26T38T72

    2023: Nicolas Echavarria

    • Tournament Debut

    2022: Ryan Brehm

    Puerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico OpenPuerto Rico Open
    Grand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf ClubGrand Reserve Golf Club
     202120202017
    Ryan BrehmT11T35MC

    2021: Branden Grace

    • Tournament Debut

    2020: Viktor Hovland

    • Tournament Debut

    Picks:

    Outrights

    Kevin Roy (+2800) – FanDuel

    Michael Thorbjornsen (+4000) – FanDuel

    Matti Schmid (+4000) – FanDuel

    Matthew Jordan (+4000) – FanDuel

    Hayden Springer (+5000) – FanDuel

    Ricky Castillo (+5000) – FanDuel

    Best of luck, and as always you can find me on Twitter @GatorBetting and Instagram @Gator_Sports_Betting. Any feedback whether positive or negative is always encouraged.

    College Basketball Early Conference Tournament Plays – Sports Betting

    It’s March baby, and the madness has already started.   I think that there is some value in some of the futures on these smaller conference tournaments.   There are situations where there are home teams and situations where the whole tournament is played on a neutral court.  Here are some of my thoughts and plays.

    The Horizon League:  Robert Morris +270 to win – This tournament is first played at home, and then moves to Indianapolis for the semi-finals and finals.   The Favorite Milwaukee is a solid team, but they have faltered more away from home.  The Panthers also lost to the Colonials of Robert Morris twice this year.   Cleveland state was at one time the top team, but they faltered down the stretch losing five of their last eight games.   Give me the to seed here.

    The Summit League:  Omaha +450 to win – This lovely tournament will be played at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls South Dakota.   Now this might give a little edge to the Dakota teams, but it isn’t like this conference is not used to travel.   There is literally nothing better to do than watch college basketball if you live in these parts.  The top seed is Omaha, and they only have the 4th best odds of winning it at +450.   St Thomas has been the strongest team in this conference, yet a win doesn’t get them to the big dance as they are ineligible.   The Omaha Maverick’s have beaten all three of the top seeds once this year, so I can’t see why they would not do it again as they have an efficient offense and play quite well on the road.

    The CAA:  Towson +450 to win – This tournament will be played at CareFirst Arena in Washington, D.C.  This is another situation where the one seed is quite disrespected.   The Favorite UNC Wilmington had lost to Towson in their only matchup back on January 2nd.   The Seahawks certainly have improved since, but so did the Tigers who rank 189th in offensive efficiency and 143rd in defensive efficiency.   The other seed to worry about is Charleston who has been deemed the third luckiest team in college basketball.

    The WCC:  St Mary’s +130 to win – This conference tournament is in Vegas at the Orleans Arena starting on Thursday.  The only two teams that can contend are Gonzaga at -125 and St Mary’s at +130.  I honestly have no clue why Saint Mary’s is only the second favorite here behind a Gonzaga team that the Gaels had beaten twice this year during the regular season.   This is where efficiency sites tend to get it wrong.  Just because a team with a solid fast paced offense puts extra points up on the bad teams doesn’t make them any better when finally playing a good defense.  Gonzaga might be playing for their post season homes, but Saint Mary’s is very disrespected here.   Take the Gaels.

    Podcast 679 – 14 – 25 – With Kyle Hunter – College Hoops Early Conference Tournaments – Sports Betting

    We have a great show for you today!  March Madness is here and we have a ton to talk about.   The one and only Kyle Hunter @KyleHunterPicks from  Hunter Sports Picks is back to break down some conference tournaments.   First, Kyle and Kiev talk about some contests that they are putting on for us in March.  Next, the guys get into some capping spots this week in NCAAB.  Then, Kyle and Kiev talk some conference tournaments with some Free Plays that they like based on value.   After that, Kyle gives us a sleeper for tournament time that can make some noise.  Finally, we recap our plays.   Should you have any questions for the podcast, or games that you want us to cap during our shows, please message us at Info@TheOddsBreakers.com.  Have a wonderful week!

    Link to wagering on our best bets from the show:  https://theoddsbreakers.com/mybookie/ Must Be 21+. Gambling Problem? Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER.

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