Defending champion can strike again

Welcome to Power Rankings, a weekly feature on SI Golf from our partners at KeyCompete. This week, the PGA Tour moves to Southern Illinois for the annual John Deere Classic. Here’s how our model sees the event unfolding:

Preview of the 2024 John Deere Classic

TPC Deere Run, a DA Weibring-designed course that opened in 2000, recently underwent a renovation to improve playability while preserving its original character. Known for its scenic beauty along the Rock River, it demands precision off the tee and finesse around the greens. The risk-reward par-5 17th often becomes crucial late on Sundays. Here are the 10 players our model likes this week.

KeyCompete’s 2024 John Deere Classic Power Rankings:

(DraftKings Odds – Place Your Weekly Bets Here)

1. Sungjae Im (+1600): The frontrunner is Sungjae Im, whose recent form includes three top 10s in his last four starts. His accuracy with irons and confident putting have been crucial, which also suits the demands of TPC Deere Run.

2. Aaron Rai (+2000): Known for controlled ball striking and steady putting. T2 last week in Detroit.

3. Sepp Straka (+1800): The reigning champion with a short game that will serve him well in his attempts to win two matches in a row.

4. Davis Thompson (+2500): Powerful drives and an improving overall game make him an outsider to watch, and his recent performances, including T2 last week, show a breakthrough is approaching.

5. Maverick McNealy (+3000): Accurate irons, consistent putting. A great addition to your line-ups.

6. Denny McCarthy (+2200): Famous for his putting skills, a statistic to keep an eye on this week.

7. JT Poston (+3500): Stable, experienced and a reliable ball catcher make him a permanent threat. Winner here in 2022.

8. Keith Mitchell (+3000): An aggressive style of play and long drives should be a factor in this week, which is usually characterized by low scores. (Straka won last year at 21 under par.)

9. Jordan Spieth (+2000): Creative shot-making and experience make him a favorite, but inconsistent year won’t make him the favorite. Hasn’t had a top 10 since the Valero Texas Open in April.

10. Seamus Kracht (+6000): Well rounded and mentally strong. Not afraid to score birdies.

Rocket Mortgage Classic 2024 Recap

Cam Davis emerged victorious in Detroit, ending a string of mediocre finishes leading up to the event. Meanwhile, Akshay Bhatia failed on the final hole with a heartbreaking three-putt to lose a stroke and earn his second victory of the season.

KeyCompete had a solid week of matchup betting, pushing our annual record to 116-69.

The odds of winning are updated regularly and may change.

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