We came agonizingly close to our first outright win of the season last week, with Nico Echavarria (100-1) falling just short in a playoff to Nick Taylor at the Sony Open in Hawaii. Earlier at The Sentry, Sungjae Im (18-1) also came close, finishing 3rd.

Up next is The American Express, the third event of the 2025 PGA TOUR season and the second full-field event of the year.

Pre-Tournament Storylines:

Nick Taylor’s Sony Open Triumph: A Stunning Comeback Victory

Nick Taylor pulled off a stunning victory at the Sony Open in Hawaii, defying all odds at Waialae Country Club. Heading into the final hole, Taylor sat at -14 with a mere 0.4% chance of winning, as the leaders were at -16. However, he delivered a clutch chip-in to put himself in contention for a potential playoff. Nico Echavarria also birdied the last hole, finishing at -16 to set up the dramatic showdown.

J.J. Spaun and Stephan Jaeger, who led much of the final round, were widely expected to battle for the title but faltered late, opening the door for Taylor’s remarkable comeback.

The playoff lasted two holes, where Taylor triumphed over Echavarria, securing his fifth career PGA TOUR victory. The win also moved Taylor to a perfect 3-0 record in career playoffs, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer in high-pressure moments.

Nick Dunlap looks for repeat success at the American Express

Nick Dunlap returns to PGA WEST looking to replicate his remarkable success from last year, when he made history by winning the event as an amateur. That victory marked him as the first amateur to win on the PGA TOUR since 1991. Dunlap followed up his American Express triumph with another win at the Barracuda Championship, solidifying his status as one of golf’s rising stars.

17-Year-Old Sensation: Blades Brown

Seventeen-year-old Blades Brown is set to make his second career PGA TOUR start and his first since turning professional last month. In his debut, Brown delivered an impressive performance with a T26 finish at the Myrtle Beach Classic. The young phenom will look to continue showcasing his potential against a strong field.

Tournament Information:

• Dates: January 16th – January 19th, 2025
• Location: La Quinta, California, United States
• Courses: PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course, PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course, La Quinta Country Club
• Format: 72-hole stroke play
  • Thursday-Saturday: 3 Course Rotation
    • PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course
    • PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course
    • La Quinta Country Club
  • Sunday: PGA West Stadium Course
• Purse/ Winner: $8,500,000 /$1,530,000
• FedEx Cup Points: 500
• Field: 156 Players
• Cut: Top 65 and Ties – 54 Holes
• Playoff Format:
• Historic Cut Line:
  • 2024: -13
  • 2023: -10
  • 2022: -7

Social Media:

• Course X: @PGAWESTGOLF
• Tournament X: @theamexgolf

PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course

• Par: 72 (4x 3’s / 10x 4’s / 4x 5’s)
• Length: 7,210 Yards
• Greens: TifDwarf Bermudagrass with Poa overseed .115”
• Fairways: Ryegrass overseed .375”
• Overseeded Rough: 1.5”
• Non-overseeded Rough: Tifgreen 328 Bermuda 2”
• Bunkers: 90-plus
• Water Hazard(s): — (In-Play on 7 Holes)
• Average Green Size: 7,000 sq. ft.
• Stimpmeter: 11 ft.
• Course Scoring Average:
  • 2024: 69.15 (-3.86), Rank 48 of 51
  • 2023: 69.20 (-2.80), Rank 47 of 49
  • 2022: 70.57 (-1.43), Rank 37 of 50

Course Architect:

• Course Architect: Pete Dye (1986)
• Renovations: None

Comparable Courses:

• TPC Sawgrass – THE PLAYERS Championship – RESULTS
• TPC Scottsdale – WM Phoenix Open – RESULTS
• TPC Summerlin – Shriners Children’s Open – RESULTS

Comparable Location (La Quinta, California, United States):

• Torrey Pines Golf Course – San Diego, California – Farmers Insurance Open
• Pebble Beach Golf Links – Pebble Beach, California – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
• The Riviera Country Club – Pacific Palisades, California – The Genesis Invitational
• Silverado Resort and Spa – Napa, California – Procore Championship
• Tahoe Mountain Club (Old Greenwood) – Truckee, California – Barracuda Championship

Designer Link (Pete Dye (1986)):

• TPC Sawgrass (Stadium Course) – Pete Dye (1980) – THE PLAYERS Championship
• Harbour Town Golf Links – Pete Dye (1969) – RBC Heritage
• TPC Louisiana – Pete Dye (2004) – Zurich Classic of New Orleans
• TPC River Highlands – Pete Dye (1982) – Travelers Championship

Comparable Yardage (7,210 Yards):

• Harbour Town Golf Links – 7,191 Yards – RBC Heritage
• Colonial Country Club – 7,209 Yards – Charles Schwab Challenge

Comparable Greens (TifDwarf Bermudagrass with Poa overseed .115”):

• Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course) – TifEagle bermuda overseeded with Poa Trivialis .120” – Valspar Championship
• Quail Hollow Club – Champion G12 bermudagrass overseeded with Poa trivialis .125” – Wells Fargo Championship

Comparable Average Green Size (7,000 sq. ft.):

• Memorial Park Golf Course – 7,000 sq. ft. – Texas Children’s Houston Open
• TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course) – 7,069 sq. ft. – WM Phoenix Open

PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course

• Par: 72 (4x 3’s / 10x 4’s / 4x 5’s)
• Length: 7,147 Yards
• Greens: TifEagle Bermudagrass with Poa overseed .115”
• Fairways: Ryegrass overseed .375”
• Overseeded Rough: 1.5”
• Non-overseeded Rough: Tifgreen 328 Bermuda 2”
• Bunkers: 90-plus (8.8 acres)
• Water Hazard(s): — (In-Play on 6 Holes)
• Average Green Size: 5,500 sq. ft.
• Stimpmeter: 10.5 ft.
• Course Scoring Average:
  • 2024: 68.09 (-3.91), Rank 49 of 51
  • 2023: 68.73 (-3.27), Rank 48 of 49
  • 2022: 70.26 (-1.74), Rank 39 of 50

Course Architect:

• Course Architect: Jack Nicklaus (1987)
• Renovations: None

Comparable Courses:

• Summit Club – 2021 CJ Cup – RESULTS
• TPC Scottsdale – WM Phoenix Open – RESULTS
• TPC Summerlin – Shriners Children’s Open – RESULTS

Comparable Location (La Quinta, California, United States):

• Torrey Pines Golf Course – San Diego, California – Farmers Insurance Open
• Pebble Beach Golf Links – Pebble Beach, California – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
• The Riviera Country Club – Pacific Palisades, California – The Genesis Invitational
• Silverado Resort and Spa – Napa, California – Procore Championship
• Tahoe Mountain Club (Old Greenwood) – Truckee, California – Barracuda Championship

Designer Link (Jack Nicklaus (1987)):

• Muirfield Village Golf Club – Jack Nicklaus (1974) – the Memorial Tournament
• Tahoe Mountain Club (Old Greenwood) – Jack Nicklaus (2004) – Barracuda Championship
• Castle Pines Golf Club – Jack Nicklaus (1981) – 2024 BMW Championship
• PGA National (The Champion) – Jack Nicklaus Renovation (2002, 14, 18) – Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches

Comparable Yardage (7,147 Yards):

• Silverado Resort and Spa (North Course) – 7,123 Yards – Procore Championship
• Sedgefield Country Club – 7,131 yards – Wyndham Championship

Comparable Greens (TifEagle Bermudagrass with Poa overseed .115”):

• Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course) – TifEagle bermuda overseeded with Poa Trivialis .120” – Valspar Championship
• Quail Hollow Club – Champion G12 bermudagrass overseeded with Poa trivialis .125” – Wells Fargo Championship

Comparable Average Green Size (5,500 sq. ft.)

• Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club – 5,500 sq. ft. – ZOZO Championship
• TPC Deere Run – 5,500 sq. ft. – John Deere Classic
• TPC Sawgrass (THE PLAYERS Stadium Course) – 5,500 sq. ft. – THE PLAYERS Championship

La Quinta Country Club

• Par: 72 (4x 3’s / 10x 4’s / 4x 5’s)
• Length: 7,060 Yards
• Greens: TifDwarf Bermudagrass with Poa trivialis/ryegrass overseed .105”
• Fairways: Ryegrass overseed .400”
• Rough: Ryegrass overseed 1.75”
• Bunkers: 82 (92,000 sq. ft / 2.13 acres)
• Water Hazard(s): 5 lakes (In-Play on 7 Holes)
• Average Green Size: 4,773 sq. ft.
• Stimpmeter: 11.5 ft.
• Course Scoring Average:
  • 2024: 67.91 (-4.09), Rank 50 of 51
  • 2023: 69.58 (-2.46), Rank 46 of 49
  • 2022: 69.92 (-2.08), Rank 43 of 50

Course Architect:

• Course Architect: Lawrence Hughes (1959)
• Renovations: Damian Pascuzzo (1999)

Comparable Courses:

• TPC Summerlin – Shriners Children’s Open – RESULTS
• Pebble Beach – Pebble Beach Golf Links – RESULTS

Comparable Location (La Quinta, California, United States):

• Torrey Pines Golf Course – San Diego, California – Farmers Insurance Open
• Pebble Beach Golf Links – Pebble Beach, California – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
• The Riviera Country Club – Pacific Palisades, California – The Genesis Invitational
• Silverado Resort and Spa – Napa, California – Procore Championship
• Tahoe Mountain Club (Old Greenwood) – Truckee, California – Barracuda Championship

Comparable Yardage (7,060 Yards):

• Sea Island Golf Club (Plantation Course) – 7,060 Yards – The RSM Classic
• Waialae Country Club – 7,044 Yards – Sony Open in Hawaii
• Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club – 7,041 Yards – ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP
• Spyglass Hill Golf Course – 7,041 Yards – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Comparable Greens (TifDwarf Bermudagrass with Poa trivialis/ryegrass overseed .105”):

• TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course) – TifEagle bermuda os/w Poa Trivialis / perennial ryegrass .100” – WM Phoenix Open

Comparable Average Green Size (4,773 sq. ft.)

• Albany – 4,500 sq. ft. – Hero World Challenge
• Spyglass Hill Golf Course – 5,000 sq. ft. – AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
• Colonial Country Club – 5,000 sq. ft. – Charles Schwab Challenge
• Muirfield Village Golf Club – 5,000 sq. ft. – the Memorial Tournament
• TPC River Highlands – 5,000 sq. ft. – Travelers Championship
• Torrey Pines Golf Course (South Course) – 5,000 sq. ft. – Farmers Insurance Open

TV Information (all times ET):

• Round 1: Thursday, January 16th, 2025
  • ESPN + (PGA TOUR Live) – 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Golf Channel – 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Round 2: Friday, January 17th, 2025
  • ESPN + (PGA TOUR Live) – 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Golf Channel – 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Round 3: Saturday, January 18th, 2025
  • ESPN + (PGA TOUR Live) – 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Golf Channel – 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Round 4: Sunday, January 19th, 2025
  • ESPN + (PGA TOUR Live) – 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Golf Channel – 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Weather:

Course/ Tournament History:

The American Express golf tournament, originally known as the Palm Springs Golf Classic, is one of the most historic and unique events on the PGA Tour. Established in 1960 to promote tourism in the Coachella Valley, the tournament quickly gained prominence due to its pro-am format, where Hollywood celebrities were paired with professional golfers. Played across several pristine courses in the Palm Springs area, the event became a star-studded celebration of golf. Over the years, it has undergone several name changes to reflect its sponsors, most notably the Bob Hope Desert Classic, a name synonymous with the tournament for decades due to Bob Hope’s long-standing association.

The tournament’s 3-course rotation is a defining characteristic, providing a unique challenge for participants. Players rotate between the PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course, the PGA West Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course, and La Quinta Country Club during the first three days. The PGA West complex hosts three of the four rounds, with the Stadium and Nicklaus Tournament Courses situated on-site. La Quinta Country Club, located about five miles from the complex, serves as the third course and requires the only travel for players during the event. This rotation adds diversity and showcases the distinct features of each course.

Another distinctive feature of The American Express is the pro-am structure, where each professional is paired with an amateur for the first three rounds. Groups consist of two pros and two amateurs, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. To accommodate the amateurs, pin placements are typically in easier positions during the first three days, and rounds can extend to six hours. Additionally, the tournament’s cut is made after 54 holes rather than the standard 36, reflecting the three-course rotation.

PGA West boasts nine unique golf courses, each offering its own set of challenges. The Stadium Course, designed by Pete Dye, is the most well-known, hosting the prestigious American Express tournament. Another public course, the Nicklaus Tournament Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, enhances the venue’s reputation. For private members, PGA West features several acclaimed courses, including the Palmer Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, the Weiskopf Course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, and the Greg Norman Course, designed by Greg Norman. Additionally, there are four more private courses: the Mountain Course, Dunes Course, Citrus Course, and Nicklaus Course, all of which provide breathtaking views and distinctive golfing experiences.

The PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course, one of the most challenging in the U.S., opened in 1986 as part of the PGA West complex. Designed by Pete Dye, the course is known for its dramatic hazards, deep bunkers, and the iconic par-3 17th hole, “Alcatraz,” surrounded by water. While its difficulty initially led to its removal from the tournament rotation, it returned triumphantly in 2016 and has been a staple of The American Express since. The PGA West Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course, opened in 1987, reflects Nicklaus’s vision of blending natural beauty with strategic design. Known for its wide fairways, water hazards, and the backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains, it provides a visually stunning yet challenging test for golfers. La Quinta Country Club, established in 1959, has been part of the event since its inception. Renowned for its tree-lined fairways and well-manicured greens, the course is steeped in history and has long been a favorite among professionals.

Previous Tournament Venues:

Previous Tournament Names:

Tournament Records:

• 72-Hole Record (The American Express):
  • 259, Nick Dunlap (2024)
• 18-Hole Record (The American Express):
  • 59, David Duval (Round 5, 1999 at PGA WEST/Palmer), Adam Hadwin (Round 3, 2017 at La Quinta CC)

• Largest Margin of Victory (The American Express):
  • 6 Strokes, Tom Kite (1993), Rik Massengale (1977)

• Most Wins at Event:
  • 5, Arnold Palmer (1960, 1962, 1968, 1971, 1973)

Course Records:

• 18-Hole Record (PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course):
  • 61, Patrick Cantlay (Round 4, 2021)

• 18-Hole Record (PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course):
  • 61, Will Zalatoris (Round 2, 2022), Sam Burns (Round 2, 2024)

• 18-Hole Record (La Quinta Country Club):
  • 59, Adam Hadwin (Round 3, 2017 at La Quinta CC)

Course Guides/ Scorecard:

PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course

The four Par 3’s range from 165 to 223 yards.

No. 6 “Amen”, 227 yards, Par 3: One of the more intimidating holes on the course, however, there is a bailout area left and the green is large enough to receive just about any club you choose to hit here.

No. 17 “Alcatraz”, 165 yards, Par 3: Alcatraz is our signature hole at the Pete Dye Stadium Course. A precise tee shot here is a must into this island green which is surrounded by imposing boulders and a treacherous water hazard.

There are ten Par 4s on the Pete Dye Stadium Course with the majority of those holes ranging between 450 and 500 yards.

No. 7 “Black Hole”, 346 yards, Par 4: This may be the shortest par-4 on the course but this hole requires a very precise drive. There is a water hazard that runs down the entire right side and the bailout area left is no bargain. If you are lucky enough to hit the fairway you will be left with a short iron into the green.

No. 18 “Coliseum”, 439 yards, Par 4: One of the more intimidating drives on the course with water down the entire left side of the hole. You will need to favor the right side and try to avoid the bunkers. Your approach shot into this green has no bail out on the left and water that comes into play and bunkers that protect the front right.

There are four Par 5s on the course, No. 5, No. 8, No. 11, and No. 16.

No. 5 “Double Trouble”, 535 yards, Par 5: This par-5 is a true risk-reward hole that requires a drive that avoids the water down the left side. Laying up here is no easy feat as you need to favor the left side to stay out of the water on the right.

No. 16 “San Andreas Fault”, 600 yards, Par 5: Avoid the bunker down the left off the tee. If you have a chance to go for the green you will need to keep your second shot down the right as the bunker that is greenside is approx. 20 feet deep. Getting out of this bunker could take some time. Laying up is always the suggested play as a short iron into this green should set you up nicely.

Featured/ Signature Hole(s): 17

PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course

The four Par 3’s range from 165 to 209 yards.

No. 8 “Lilly Pad”, 172 yards, Par 3: A beautiful semi-island green that has no room for shots that come up a little short. Aiming at the middle of this green is always the best option, no matter where the pin location is for the day.

No. 12 “Fatal Attraction”, 165 yards, Par 3: The center of the green is always the best spot to aim on this hole. Miss this green to the right or short left in the bunker and you will be left with a nearly impossible up and down.

There are ten Par 4’s on the Nicklaus Tournament Course with the majority of those holes ranging between 400 and 450 yards. One thing to note is that hole No. 1 was listed at 378 Yards and this year has changed to 412 Yards.

No. 9 “Jack’s Revenge”, 461 yards, Par 4: Try to favor the left side of this fairway as a shot down the right could leave you with a blind second shot. The green is well guarded by a large water hazard, so choosing the correct club here is a must. You can bail out a little right if needed.

No. 18 “Bear Trap”, 431 yards, Par 4: It is hard to find a more beautiful finishing hole than this one. Your tee shot plays back to the clubhouse and will need to avoid the fairway bunker and water hazard down the right side. You will have a second shot that will require a mid to long iron and will need to have enough carry to get over the bunker that guards the front of the green. The green slopes severely from back to front and from left to right.

There are four Par 5’s on the course, No. 4, No. 7, No. 11, and No. 15.

No. 11 “Moguls”, 528 yards, Par 5: Aim to the right of the moguls on the left side of the fairway to set up the best view of this green for your second shot. The layup shot is crucial here as you need to decide whether to lay up short of the fairway bunker or take on the carry to set up a short pitch into the green. Make sure to avoid the left side of the green at all costs as it falls off severely and leaves an almost impossible up and down.

No. 15 “Long Island”, 572 yards, Par 5: One of the more scenic driving holes that requires a straight drive that avoids the deep fairway bunker off the tee. Keeping your lay-up shot down the right is a must and will leave you an approach shot that will need to carry the water hazard onto an island green.

Featured/ Signature Hole(s): 8

La Quinta Country Club

The four Par 3s range from 168 to 206 yards.

No. 3, 202 yards, Par 3: This picturesque par three features water and bunkers on the left. The proper club selection is required for a good position on this two-tiered green. If the green is missed on the right side there is a great opportunity to get up and down for par.

No. 7, 168 yards, Par 3: This beautiful par three has a large bunker on the left side of the green as well as a waterfall on the right, which empties into a small lake at the front of the green. Don’t let its beauty or its short yardage distract you. You must hit a great shot to score on this hole.

There are ten Par 4’s at La Quinta Country Club with the majority of those holes ranging between 350 and 450 yards.

No. 10, 405 yards, Par 4: The back nine starts off with a short dogleg left. It’s best not to cheat the corner due to the large eucalyptus and mesquite trees on the left. By using the aiming bunker on the far, right side of the dogleg, the player will set up a perfect approach to the green. The fairway slopes from right to left from the turning point all the way to the green. This will help the ball feed into the proper positions on the fairway as well as on the green.

No. 18, 412 yards, Par 4: Eighteen’s beauty begins at the tee box with a full view of the fairway, lake, clubhouse, and a backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Avoiding the water left off the tee and again for the approach shot near the green are the challenges on this great finishing hole. The right side is framed with a lone fairway bunker and a series of greenside bunkers.

There are four Par 5’s on the course, No. 5, No. 6, No. 11, and No. 13.

No. 5, 516 yards, Par 5: The first par five rewards a long drive aimed at the bunkers on the left side of the fairway. There is an opportunity to reach this green in two. However, there is only a small opening in front of the green where the ball can enter. For the player who wishes to lay up, the shot should favor the left side deep down the fairway. This will leave the player with a short pitch and a chance to make a birdie.

No. 11, 543 yards, Par 5: Eleven is a par five that plays like the letter “s”. A good tee shot should finish just to the right of the left fairway bunker. This will set up an opportunity to carry the fairway bunker, which guards the green, and possibly run the ball up on the green. If the player elects to lay up, the best landing area is left of the fairway bunker. From this point, the approach shot must finish on the correct level of the three-tiered green to capture a birdie.

Featured/ Signature Hole(s): 18

The three possible course rotations will be as follows:

• R1: PGA West Stadium -> R2: La Quinta -> R3: Nicklaus Tournament
• R1: La Quinta -> R2: Nicklaus Tournament -> R3: PGA West Stadium
• R1: Nicklaus Tournament -> R2: PGA West Stadium -> R3: La Quinta

Key Statistics:

The Sony Open occurs at the PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course, the PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course, and La Quinta Country Club. Here are the key statistics to keep an eye on for this week’s event.

Per DataGolf, this is the favored skillset at the PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course.

Per DataGolf, this is the favored skillset at the PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course.

Per DataGolf, this is the favored skillset at La Quinta Country Club.

• Good Drives Gained
  • 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:
    • Ben Martin
    • Andrew Putnam
    • Ben Kholes
    • Greyson Sigg
    • Mark Hubbard
    • Xander Schauffele
    • Chan Kim
    • Ben Griffin
    • Doug Ghim
    • Bud Cauley

• Strokes Gained: Approach
  • A strong iron game is crucial for success at this event, as demonstrated by recent history. With low scores typically winning the event (e.g., -20 or better), players must hit their approach shots close to the pins to set up birdie opportunities.
  • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
    • Lucas Glover
    • J.J. Spaun
    • Antoine Rozner
    • Mac Meissner
    • Tom Kim
    • Kurt Kitayama
    • Matteo Manassero
    • Matt Kuchar
    • Charley Hoffman
    • David Lipsky
      

• Strokes Gained: Putting (Bermudagrass, Poa)
  • The green complexes at PGA West’s Pete Dye Stadium Course and PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course are TifEagle Bermudagrass with Poa overseed .115”. At La Quinta Country Club the green complexes are TifDwarf Bermudagrass with Poa trivialis/ryegrass overseed .105”.
  • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
    • Braden Thornberry
    • Matt Kuchar
    • Max Greyserman
    • Mackenzie Hughes
    • Davis Riley
    • Sam Burns
    • Taylor Montgomery
    • Jason Day
    • Ben Silverman
    • Chad Ramey

• Par 3 Scoring
  • On the Pete Dye Stadium Course, the par 3s are notoriously challenging and tend to play closer to par. In contrast, at La Quinta and the Nicklaus Tournament Course, players often score below par on the par 3s, capitalizing on their more forgiving layouts. While par 5s are typically the primary source of birdies, the par 3s present key scoring opportunities that can help players separate themselves from the field. With a low cut line around -10, minimizing mistakes on par 3s is crucial. Bogeys or worse on these holes can quickly disrupt momentum in such a low-scoring event.
  • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
    • Nico Echavarria
    • Michael Thorbjornsen
    • Brian Harman
    • Vince Whaley
    • Sam Burns
    • Harry Hall
    • David Lipsky
    • Harris English
    • J.J. Spaun
    • Matt McCarty

• Par 4 Scoring: 350-400, 400-450 Yards
  • PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course:
    • Three of the ten Par 4’s on the Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA West range between 350-400 Yards.
      • Three of the ten Par 4’s on the Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA West range between 400-450 Yards.
  • PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course:
    • Three of the ten Par 4’s on the Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West range between 350-400 Yards.
    • Four of the ten Par 4’s on the Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West range between 400-450 Yards.
  • La Quinta Country Club:
    • Four of the ten Par 4’s at La Quinta Country Club range between 350-400 Yards.
    • Four of the ten Par 4’s at La Quinta Country Club range between 400-450 Yards.
  • Leaders in Par 4 Scoring: 350-400 Yards in the last 24 Rounds:
    • Joel Dahmen
    • Mark Hubbard
    • Ben Kholes
    • Jhonattan Vegas
    • Max Greyserman
    • Chris Kirk
    • Wyndham Clark
    • Justin Thomas
    • Sungjae Im
    • J.J. Spaun
  • Leaders in Par 4 Scoring: 400-450 Yards in the last 24 Rounds:
    • Greyson Sigg
    • Sam Burns
    • Beau Hossler
    • Braden Thornberry
    • Patrick Cantlay
    • Jacob Bridgeman
    • J.T. Poston
    • Lucas Glover
    • Daniel Berger
    • Ryo Hisatsune

• Par 5 Scoring: 500-550, 550-600 Yards (x3)
  • PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Course:
    • One of the four Par 5’s on the Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA West ranges between 500-550 Yards.
    • Three of the four Par 5’s on the Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA West range between 550-600 Yards.
  • PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course:
    • Three of the four Par 5’s on the Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West range between 500-550 Yards.
    • One of the four Par 5’s on the Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West ranges between 550-600 Yards.
  • La Quinta Country Club:
    • Two of the four Par 5’s at La Quinta Country Club range between 500-550 Yards.
    • Two of the four Par 5’s at La Quinta Country Club range between 550-600 Yards.
  • Leaders in Par 5 Scoring: 500-550 Yards in the last 24 Rounds:
    • Ben Griffin
    • Michael Kim
    • Ryo Hisatsune
    • Matti Schmid
    • Justin Thomas
    • Jhonattan vegas
    • Davis Thompson
    • Max Greyserman
    • Jackson Suber
    • Joe Highsmith
  • Leaders in Par 5 Scoring: 550-600 Yards in the last 24 Rounds:
    • Kurt Kitayama
    • Justin Lower
    • Wesley Bryan
    • Matti Schmid
    • Alex Smalley
    • Ryan Gerard
    • Chandler Phillips
    • Max Greyserman
    • Patrick Rodgers
    • Bill Haas

• Birdies or Better Gained
  • Low scores are a staple of the tournament, with winning scores typically around -23 or better. Players must capitalize on birdie opportunities, especially on the Par 4’s and Par 5’s.
  • Leaders in this category in the last 24 Rounds:
    • Harry Hall
    • Sam Burns
    • Max Greyserman
    • Nico Echavarria
    • Joe Highsmith
    • Michael Thorbjornsen
    • Matti Schmid
    • Jacob Bridgeman
    • Si Woo Kim
    • Jesper Svensson

• Proximity Gained: 75-100 Yards & 150-175 Yards
  • The Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA West sees a significantly higher volume of approach shots from the 75-100 and 150-175 yard range compared to the PGA Tour average.

• Leaders in Proximity Gained 75-100 Yards in the last 24 Rounds:
  • Alejandro Tosti
  • Matt Kuchar
  • Chris Kirk
  • Francesco Molinari
  • Jason Dufner
  • Camilo Villegas
  • Keith Mitchell
  • Davis Riley
  • William Mouw
  • Bud Cauley
• Leaders in Proximity Gained 150-175 Yards in the last 24 Rounds:
  • Ben Kholes
  • Harris English
  • Nico Echavarria
  • Tom Kim
  • Andrew Novak
  • Jason Dufner
  • Michael Kim
  • Matteo Manassero
  • Hayden Buckley
  • Ben Silverman

• Comparable Courses and Event History
  • The Data Golf Course History Tool suggests that past success at PGA West’s Pete Dye Stadium Course, PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course, and La Quinta Country Club has not been a strong predictor of future performance in this tournament.

• Leaders in this category (Stokes Gained Total at the American Express, Last 100 Rounds):
  • Adam Hadwin
  • Si Woo Kim
  • Harris English
  • Ben Griffin
  • Patrick Cantlay
  • Brian Harman
  • Sungjae Im
  • Justin Thomas
  • Christiaan Bezuidenhout
  • Sam Burns

The Field:

This year’s American Express will feature a total of 156 competitors.

Basis of qualification for each entrant this week:

• Winner – PGA/U.S. Open Championship
• Winner – Masters Tournament
• Winner – British Open
• Winners of the Arnold Palmer, Memorial, Genesis (Last 3 Years)
• Tournament Winner in Past Two Seasons
• Career Money Exemption
• Sponsor Exemptions: DPWT / Korn Ferry Tour / Q-School Category
• Sponsors Exemptions – PGA TOUR Member not otherwise exempt
• Sponsors Exemptions – Unrestricted
• Designated Sponsor Exemption
• PGA Club Professional Champion – 6 Events
• PGA Section Champion\Player of the Year
• Open Qualifying
• Top 30 on the FedExCup Playoffs & Eligibility Points List
• Top 70 on Prior Year FEC Playoff & Elig List through the Playoffs
• Top 125 FedExCup Fall Point Lists
• Major Medical Extension
• PGA TOUR University #1 – Prior Season
• Leading 10 players (not otherwise exempt) on DP World Tour
• Players 2-30 on the Prior Season Korn Ferry Tour Points List

Previous Winners in the Field (Event):

• Nick Dunlap (2024), Si Woo Kim (2021), Jason Dufner (2016), Bill Hass (2015, 2010), Jhonattan Villegas (2011), Charley Hoffman (2007)

Debutants in the Field (Event):

• Aldrich Potgieter, Antoine Rozner, Blades Brown, Braden Thornberry, Cristobal Del Solar, Danny Walker, Frankie Capan III, Jackson Suber, Jeremy Paul, Jesper Svensson, Kaito Onishi, Kevin Velo, Mason Andersen, Matt McCarty, Matteo Manassero, Matthew Riedel, Michael Thorbjornsen, Noah Goodwin, Paul Peterson, Quade Cummins, Ricky Castillo, Rikuya Hoshino, Ryan Gerard, Steven Fisk, Takumi Kanaya, Taylor Dickson, Thomas Rosenmueller, Tim Widing, Victor Perez, Will Chandler, William Mouw

Sponsors Exemptions:

• Blades Brown – (Unrestricted)
• Wesley Bryan – (Unrestricted)
• Chesson Hadley – (Unrestricted)
• Zach Johnson – (Members not otherwise exempt)
• Chez Reavie – (Members not otherwise exempt)
• Kevin Streelman – (Unrestricted)

Notable Withdraws/ Changes:

• Harris English IN
• Daniel Berger IN
• Maverick McNealy WD / Matthew Riedel IN
• Seamus Power WD / Bronson Burgoon IN
• Anders Albertson IN
• Norman Xiong IN
• Xander Schauffele WD / Aaron Baddeley IN
• Denny McCarthy WD / Philip Knowles IN

Tee Times & Groupings:

The Odds:

Here are the current favorites for this week’s event, along with a summary of their recent form and course history:

Sungjae Im (+1200)

Sungjae Im kicked off his 2025 season with an impressive T3 finish at The Sentry. While he didn’t capture a win last season, he displayed excellent form late in the year with four consecutive top-15 finishes. This marks his seventh appearance at this tournament, where he’s consistently performed well, finishing inside the top 25 in every outing. His best finish was T10 in 2020.

Justin Thomas (+1400)

Justin Thomas began his 2025 PGA TOUR season two weeks ago at The Sentry, finishing T26. He closed out a challenging 2024 season with strong performances, including a T2 at the ZOZO Championship and a 3rd-place finish at the Hero World Challenge. This will be his fourth appearance at this tournament, having missed the cut in 2014, finished T7 in 2015, and placed T3 last year.

Sam Burns (+1600)

Sam Burns opened his 2025 season at The Sentry with a solid T8 finish. Like Sungjae, he didn’t win last season but closed strong with four straight top-15 finishes. This will be his sixth appearance at this event, with four top-20 finishes already to his name.

Patrick Cantlay (+1800)

Patrick Cantlay started his 2025 season two weeks ago at The Sentry, finishing T15. Despite not securing a victory last season, he displayed consistency with four straight top-20 finishes to close out the year. This will be his seventh appearance at this tournament, with his best finish being a runner-up in 2021.

Tournament Props:

Playoff:

• Will There Be a Playoff at the American Express? (Yes +350 / No -500)

While the American Express’s winning margin has been 1-2 strokes in each of the past six editions, the tournament has not been decided by a playoff since 2018, when Jon Rahm triumphed over Andrew Landry.

Hole-in-One:

• Will There Be A Hole-in-One at the American Express? (Yes -230/ No +165)

A hole-in-one has been recorded in each of the last three editions of this tournament.

Recent Horses for Courses (Event):

Recent Donkeys for Courses (Event):

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

• 2024: Nick Dunlap (-29)
  • Price: 350-1

• 2023: Jon Rahm (-27)
  • Price: 13-2 (+650)

• 2022: Hudson Swafford (-23)
  • Price: 175-1

• 2021: Si Woo Kim (-23)
  • Price: 66-1

• 2020: Andrew Landry (-26)
  • Price: 200-1

Previous Winners Incoming Form (Last 5 Starts):

• 2024: Nick Dunlap
  • MC – Butterfield Bermuda Championship (PGA)
  • 2 – World Amateur Team Championship (Amateur)
  • 2 – Hamptons Intercollegiate (Amateur)
  • WON – SEC Stroke Play (Amateur)
  • T8 – OFCC Fighting Illini Invitational (Amateur)

• 2023: Jon Rahm
  • WON – Sentry Tournament of Champions (PGA)
  • T8 – Hero World Challenge (PGA)
  • T4 – THE CJ CUP in South Carolina (PGA)
  • WON – DP World Tour Championship (DPWT)
  • WON – acciona Open de Espana (DPWT)

• 2022: Hudson Swafford
  • T48 – Sony Open in Hawaii (PGA)
  • MC – The RSM Classic (PGA)
  • T35 – Hewlett Packard Enterprise Houston Open (PGA)
  • T33 – World Wide Technology Championship (PGA)
  • T32 – THE CJ CUP (PGA)

• 2021: Si Woo Kim
  • T25 – Sony Open in Hawaii (PGA)
  • T34 – The Masters (MAJ)
  • MC – Vivint Houston Open (MC)
  • T17 – THE CJ CUP (PGA)
  • T8 – Shriners Hospitals for Children Open (PGA)

• 2020: Andrew Landry
  • MC – Sony Open in Hawaii (PGA)
  • MC – The RSM Classic (PGA)
  • MC – Mayakoba Golf Classic (PGA)
  • MC – Houston Open (PGA)
  • MC – Shriners Hospitals for Children Open (PGA)

Previous Winners Finishes at Event:

2024: Nick Dunlap

• Tournament Debut

2023: Jon Rahm

2022: Hudson Swafford

2021: Si Woo Kim

2020: Andrew Landry

Picks:

Outrights

Max Greyserman (+3500) – Bet365

Risk 0.23 Units to win 8.05 Units

Max Greyserman finished the 2024 season strong, with a T2 at the ZOZO Championship and a 4th at the World Wide Technology Championship. He carried that momentum into the 2025 season, finishing T24 at the Sony Open last week.

Greyserman made his debut at The American Express last year, finishing T56. He’s come close to a win several times, including runner-up finishes at both the Wyndham Championship and the 3M Open. With his strong recent form, improved putting, and solid iron play, Greyserman is well-positioned to contend this week.

Ben Griffin (+6000) – FanDuel

Risk 0.14 Units to win 8.40 Units

Ben Griffin wrapped up the 2024 season on a strong note with four consecutive top-25 finishes during the FedExCup Fall Swing. He followed that up with a T45 finish at the Sony Open last week.

Griffin has competed at The American Express twice before, finishing T32 in 2023 and a solid T9 in 2024. With his recent form and a solid track record at this event, Griffin is worth considering this week.

Eric Cole (+6500) – FanDuel

Risk 0.13 Units to win 8.45 Units

Eric Cole wrapped up the 2024 season with strong form, posting three top-20 finishes in his last four events. He’s carried that momentum into the 2025 season, finishing 52nd at The Sentry and an impressive 5th at the Sony Open last week.

This marks Cole’s third appearance at The American Express, where he finished T36 in 2023 and T21 in 2024. With his ball-striking ability, accuracy off the tee, and recent success with the putter, Cole has the tools to contend if he stays hot on the greens.

Lee Hodges (+8000) – FanDuel

Risk 0.10 Units to win 8.00 Units

Lee Hodges ended the 2024 season on a strong note, recording three top-16 finishes in his last four events. He carried that momentum into the 2025 season, finishing T10 at the Sony Open last week. This will mark his fourth appearance at The American Express, where he shined with a T3 finish in his debut (2022) but missed the cut in his last two trips to La Quinta (2023, 2024).

Hodges struggled with his putting throughout the 2024 season but showed improvement last week, gaining strokes on the greens at the Sony Open. If he can maintain that progress with the putter, his strong ball striking could make him a serious contender this week.

Mac Meissner (+8000) – BetMGM

Risk 0.10 Units to win 8.00 Units

Mac Meissner kicked off his 2025 PGA TOUR season with an impressive T21 finish at the Sony Open, where he ranked 2nd in SG: Approach in the field. While he struggled in his debut at The American Express last season, missing the cut, he enters this year’s event in much stronger form.

Meissner’s success typically hinges on his putting, which often correlates to top-20 finishes when he performs well on the greens. Additionally, he has shown improvement on this specific grass type, which could give him an edge. If his putter heats up, Meissner could be in the mix this week.

Lucas Glover (+8000) – FanDuel

Risk 0.08 Units to win 8.00 Units

Michael Kim (+10000) – FanDuel

Risk 0.08 Units to win 8.00 Units

Michael Kim finished the 2024 season on a strong note, recording a T5 at the Shriners Children’s Open, T30 at the World Wide Technology Championship, T12 at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, and T11 at the RSM Classic. However, that momentum didn’t carry into the 2025 season, as he missed the cut at the Sony Open, primarily due to struggles with his approach play and putting.

Despite the slow start, Kim has a proven track record at The American Express, highlighted by a T6 finish last season. If he can rediscover his recent form, Kim has the potential to contend at a great value this week.

Matt Kuchar (+12000) – FanDuel

Risk 0.07 Units to win 8.40 Units

At 46 years old, Matt Kuchar continues to perform at a high level, opening the season with a T21 finish at the Sony Open in Hawaii, where he gained strokes in every category. This week, he returns to a venue he knows well, with six top-25 finishes in ten prior appearances at The American Express. Kuchar has come close to victory here twice, finishing runner-up in 2010 and 2015.

Although he missed the cut last year due to poor iron play, Kuchar enters this year’s event in solid form, having gained strokes on approach in 10 of his last 12 events. With his course history and recent consistency, Kuchar offers intriguing longshot value.

Justin Lower (+15000) – FanDuel

Risk 0.06 Units to win 9.00 Units

Justin Lower made his 2025 season debut last week at the Sony Open in Hawaii, finishing T37. This week marks his fourth appearance at The American Express, where he missed the cut in 2022 but improved with finishes of T41 in 2023 and T39 last season.

Lower ended the 2024 season on a high note, securing a T2 finish at the World Wide Technology Championship and T5 at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship. His putting and iron play have shown marked improvement in recent events. Known for thriving in low-scoring, birdie-heavy tournaments, Lower could surprise if he gets hot with the putter this week. A longshot, but worth a look given his recent form.

Top 20 (Inc. Ties)

Wyndham Clark (+140) – DraftKings

Risk 1.00 Units to win 1.40 Units

Wyndham Clark opened the 2025 season with a strong showing, finishing T15 at The Sentry. This week, he’ll make his seventh appearance at The American Express, where he’s recorded two top-20 finishes in previous starts. Clark’s solid form and familiarity with the event make him an appealing play at this number.

Si Woo Kim (+150) – DraftKings

Risk 1.00 Units to win 1.50 Units

Si Woo Kim hasn’t had the smoothest start to 2025, finishing T32 at The Sentry and missing the cut at last week’s Sony Open. His struggles in Hawaii were largely due to his putting, as he lost 2.86 strokes on the greens. However, as I noted yesterday, Kim has a tendency to rebound strongly following poor putting performances.

Kim also has a strong history at The American Express, including a victory in 2021 and top-25 finishes in each of the last three editions. Given his track record and potential for a bounce-back week, Kim offers solid value at this number.

Top 40 (Inc. Ties)

Michael Thorbjorsen (+115) – BetMGM

Risk 1.00 Units to win 1.15 Units

Michael Thorbjornsen makes his 2025 PGA TOUR season debut this week after withdrawing from the Sony Open. He showed solid form during the FedExCup Fall Swing, posting two top-10 finishes in his last three starts (T8 at the Sanderson Farms Championship and T8 at the RSM Classic).

This will be Thorbjornsen’s first appearance at The American Express, but the course setup should suit his game well. With his recent consistency and potential to adapt quickly, he’s a strong value pick this week.

Francesco Molinari (+400) – BetMGM

Risk 0.50 Units to win 2.00 Units

Francesco Molinari makes his 2025 PGA TOUR Season debut this week. During the FedExCup Fall Swing, he finished T17 at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship but missed the cut at the RSM Classic. Despite mixed recent form, Molinari boasts an impressive track record at this event, with four top-15 finishes in six prior appearances. His last two starts in La Quinta were particularly strong, finishing T8 in 2021 and T6 in 2022.

While this is certainly a longshot, the number is appealing given his course history. Molinari may lack length off the tee, but his accuracy and improved iron play over his last three starts make him an intriguing pick. Additionally, his putting has shown noticeable progress, further bolstering his chances this week.

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.