The John Deere Classic is the next stop on the PGA TOUR schedule after the Rocket Mortgage Classic. Held at TPC Deere Run, a 7,268-yard par 71 course in Silvis, Illinois, the event is known for its easy-to-hit fairways and Bentgrass greens, making it an approach shot and putting contest for most players. The field for the John Deere Classic includes notable golfers such as Jason Day, Sungjae Im, Jordan Spieth, and defending champion Sepp Straka.
The past winners of the John Deere Classic include Sepp Straka, J.T. Poston, Lucas Glover, Dylan Frittelli, and Michael Kim, among others. To analyze the upcoming tournament, golf data engine Rabbit Hole by Betsperts Golf has been used to develop a custom model. Key statistics for TPC Deere Run, such as Strokes Gained: Approach, Strokes Gained: Total on Easy Courses, Birdie or Better Percentage, Course History, and Strokes Gained: Putting (Midwest Bentgrass), have been considered to determine the top-performing golfers.
The model rankings for the John Deere Classic include Patton Kizzire, Keith Mitchell, Sungjae Im, Maverick McNealy, Michael Kim, Kelly Kraft, Sam Ryder, Daniel Berger, Greyson Sigg, and Seamus Power. Notable picks for the tournament include Denny McCarthy, Nick Dunlap, Beau Hossler, Jhonnatan Vegas, Neal Shipley, Troy Merritt, and Harry Higgs. These players have shown promising performances in recent events and could potentially stand out in the upcoming tournament.
Denny McCarthy, known for his excellent putting skills, has had solid results at TPC Deere Run in the past and is a contender for victory. Nick Dunlap, a young player with a win earlier this season, excels in approach shots and birdie opportunities. Beau Hossler, despite an inconsistent year, has shown improved ball striking and could rely on his putting to secure a win at TPC Deere Run.
Jhonnatan Vegas has been battling injuries but showed promising signs with his ball striking last week. Neal Shipley, a recent professional with impressive performances, and Troy Merritt, who has shown consistency in approach shots, are also potential dark horses for the event. Additionally, Harry Higgs, coming off recent Korn Ferry Tour wins, has the ability to capitalize on birdie opportunities and continue his hot streak at the John Deere Classic.
