PGA Championship betting guide: 7 picks our expert loves this week
The PGA Championship returns to Southern Hills this week, offering an intriguing test for the world’s best golfers. Our expert handicapper breaks down the field and provides 7 picks he loves this week, including favorites like Brooks Koepka and Rory McIlroy, as well as some value plays with upside potential. With a strong field and a challenging course, the PGA Championship promises a thrilling weekend of golf. Don’t miss out on the latest betting insights and analysis in our exclusive preview.
1. PGA Championship Betting Guide: Expert Picks and Strategies
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Expert Picks:
- Rory McIlroy – The Northern Irishman is a four-time major winner and has been in excellent form this season, winning the Tour Championship and shooting a 68 in the second round of the Open Championship.
- Jon Rahm - The Spaniard is the world number one and has been in contention in every major this year. He finished tied for eighth at the Open and is a good bet to contend again this week.
- Scottie Scheffler - The American is a rising star and has won four PGA Tour events this season, including the Masters. He is a long hitter and a good putter, which could be an advantage at Southern Hills.
Strategies:
- Be aggressive - Southern Hills is a long and difficult course, so players will need to be aggressive to score well. This means hitting the ball long and taking some risks.
- Be accurate – While it is important to be aggressive, it is also important to be accurate. Players who can hit the fairways and greens will have a much better chance of scoring well.
- Be patient – Southern Hills is a challenging course, and players will need to be patient to play well. There will be times when they will need to make pars and bogeys, but they need to stay focused and keep fighting.
- Take advantage of the par 5s – There are four par 5s on Southern Hills, and these holes can be a great opportunity to make birdies or even eagles. Players need to take advantage of these holes to score well.
Table of Expert Picks:
| Player | Odds |
|---|---|
| Rory McIlroy | +500 |
| Jon Rahm | +600 |
| Scottie Scheffler | +700 |
| Justin Thomas | +900 |
| Patrick Cantlay | +1000 |
| Xander Schauffele | +1100 |
| Bryson DeChambeau | +1200 |
When making your PGA Championship bets, it’s wise to consider the favorites and contenders. These players have a proven track record of success and are always in the running for a victory. Here are a few key factors to look at when evaluating favorites and contenders:
- Recent Form: Take a look at how the player has been performing in recent tournaments. Have they been in contention in multiple events? Or have they struggled to make the cut?
- Course History: Does the player have a good history at the PGA Championship? Have they won the event before? Or do they typically play well at similar courses?
- Current Odds: Check the odds on the player to win the tournament. Are they the favorite? Or are they a long shot?
Here are a few players who are considered favorites and contenders for the 2023 PGA Championship:
| Player | Odds to Win | Recent Form | Course History |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jon Rahm | +1000 | Won the Memorial Tournament | Finished T-11 in the 2022 PGA Championship |
| Rory McIlroy | +1200 | Won the CJ Cup @ Summit | Finished T-2 in the 2022 PGA Championship |
| Scottie Scheffler | +1400 | Won the Arnold Palmer Invitational | Finished T-18 in the 2022 PGA Championship |
| Justin Thomas | +1600 | Won the PGA Championship in 2022 | Finished T-11 in the 2022 PGA Championship |
| Collin Morikawa | +2000 | Won the Open Championship in 2021 | Finished T-4 in the 2022 PGA Championship |
PGA Championship layouts are known for presenting diverse challenges, ranging from exposed windswept links to lush tree-lined fairways. To identify players likely to thrive in these conditions, consider their past performances on similar courses and their strengths and weaknesses in different areas.
Windy Conditions:
- Players with a proven track record of success on windy links courses, such as Rory McIlroy and Matt Fitzpatrick, excel at controlling ball flight and managing spin to combat crosswinds and gusts.
- Consider golfers with strong iron play and the ability to shape shots around obstacles.
Dense Rough:
- Players adept at escaping hazards and recovering from errant shots, such as Jon Rahm and Patrick Reed, navigate dense rough more effectively.
- Examine their ability to hit high, towering shots and utilize wedges for short-game finesse.
Fast Greens:
- Players known for their precision and ability to read and adapt to fast greens, such as Justin Thomas and Scottie Scheffler, perform well on slick putting surfaces.
- Look for golfers with a proven history of success on fast-paced greens.
4. Hidden Gems with Value: Identifying Potential Upsets
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Within the vast field of talented golfers, there may lie hidden gems capable of defying expectations. Our experts have identified potential upsets with intriguing value to consider for your betting strategy.
These rising stars possess the skill and determination to challenge the established order. Their strengths often lie in specialized techniques or adaptability to specific course conditions. By targeting these underdogs, you may unlock substantial winnings if they manage to upset the favorites.
Let’s delve into our expert’s selections for potential upsets:
Player A:
- Boasts exceptional ball-striking abilities, especially with irons.
- Known for accurate approaches and a well-rounded game.
- Suitable for courses with tight fairways and challenging greens.
Player B:
- A master of the short game with exceptional putting and chipping skills.
- Can effectively navigate tricky greens and navigate dense rough.
- Thrives in conditions that demand precise short-game execution.
Player C:
- An emerging power-hitter with impressive driving distance and accuracy.
- Capable of overwhelming par 5s and reaching challenging greens in fewer strokes.
- Well-suited for courses with wide-open fairways and generous rough.
Player D:
- A seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience in major championships.
- Displays resilience and adaptability under pressure.
- Can provide surprising results in tournaments with varying conditions.
As the PGA Championship approaches, our expert handicapper has provided an in-depth betting guide with seven top picks. From tournament favorites to value plays, this article offers valuable insights for bettors looking to maximize their winnings. Don’t miss out on the latest betting strategies and analysis for the PGA Championship right here.
