The PGA TOUR makes its final stateside stop before the Scottish Open and Open Championship at TPC Deere Run for the John Deere Classic. The course, located in Silvis, Ill., is a 7,268-yard par 71 with easy-to-hit fairways and Bentgrass greens, leading to short approach shots into the greens and a putting contest.
The field at the John Deere Classic will consist of 156 golfers, including notable players like Jason Day, Sungjae Im, and defending champion Sepp Straka. The course has a history of producing low scores, with past winners including Sepp Straka, J.T. Poston, and Jordan Spieth.
Key statistics for TPC Deere Run include Strokes Gained: Approach, Strokes Gained: Total on Easy Courses, Birdie or Better Percentage, Course History, and Strokes Gained: Putting on Midwest Bentgrass. These metrics will determine which golfers have the best chances of success at the tournament.
Using a combination of these key statistical categories, a model has been created to rank the top contenders for the John Deere Classic. Players like Patton Kizzire, Keith Mitchell, and Sungjae Im top the list based on their performance in these key areas.
Picks for the 2024 John Deere Classic include Denny McCarthy, Nick Dunlap, Beau Hossler, Jhonnatan Vegas, Neal Shipley, Troy Merritt, and Harry Higgs. These selections are based on the players’ recent performances, strengths in key statistical categories, and historical success at TPC Deere Run.
Denny McCarthy, a strong putter, has come close to winning on the PGA Tour and has shown consistency with his putting at TPC Deere Run in past years. Nick Dunlap, an up-and-coming player, has shown the ability to go low in birdie-filled events like the John Deere Classic. Beau Hossler, despite a challenging year, has demonstrated improved ball striking and could rely on his putting to contend.
Jhonnatan Vegas, Neal Shipley, Troy Merritt, and Harry Higgs are players to watch for as they have shown recent promising performances and could surprise at TPC Deere Run. These picks offer a mix of experienced contenders and rising talents, adding excitement to the upcoming tournament.
