Poston/Mitchell and Horschel/Hoge Among Favorites for Zurich Classic of New Orleans
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans, a unique pairs event on the PGA Tour, is set to deliver thrilling competition. Experts are highlighting the teams of J.T. Poston/Keith Mitchell and Billy Horschel/Tom Hoge as strong contenders for the title.
top Teams to Watch
- J.T. Poston/Keith Mitchell: This duo stands out as a promising team, with odds around 18/1.
- Billy Horschel/Tom Hoge: Another team generating buzz, Horschel and Hoge are listed at approximately 28/1.
- Rory McIlroy/Shane Lowry: The defending champions return, but face steeper odds this year.
Expert Betting Insights
While the McIlroy/Lowry duo returns, their odds have shortened, and some believe McIlroy’s recent Masters victory might impact his preparation for this team event. Rather, attention is turning to other pairings with possibly greater value.
Why the Zurich Classic is a Favorite
The Zurich Classic’s format, especially the alternate-shot rounds, offers a refreshing change from typical stroke-play tournaments. The team dynamic and strategic elements add an extra layer of excitement for both players and fans.
Underdog Potential
Don’t rule out longshots. The team format introduces volatility, creating opportunities for unexpected contenders to emerge. The pressure of foursomes play can level the playing field, as evidenced by past results.
Other Teams to Consider
Beyond the favorites, several other teams present intriguing possibilities. Keep an eye on pairings that demonstrate strong chemistry and complementary skill sets,as they could surprise in this unpredictable format.
Zurich Classic of New Orleans: Expert Pairings to Watch
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — As the Zurich Classic of New Orleans tees off, several teams stand out as potential contenders, blending complementary skills and course history. Experts are closely watching pairings such as Billy Horschel and Tom Hoge, and also the duo of J.T. Poston and keith Mitchell.
Horschel and Hoge: A Formidable Force
Billy Horschel’s stellar course record makes him a strong contender. Twelve years ago, he secured his first PGA Tour win at this very location.he later won the revamped Zurich Classic with scott Piercy, and achieved fourth and second-place finishes with Sam Burns. Despite a missed cut last year with Tyson Alexander, horschel’s partnership with Tom Hoge marks a significant upgrade.
Hoge has consistently performed well, with finishes of 3rd, 5th, 14th, and 18th in his last four starts, including a strong showing at TPC Sawgrass, another Dye-designed course. His familiarity with Pete Dye designs, coupled with Horschel’s impressive track record on such courses, positions them as a team to watch. Horschel boasts top finishes at Harbour Town, Crooked Stick, Sawgrass, Kiawah Island, and Whistling Straits, demonstrating his proficiency on Dye’s layouts.
Poston and Mitchell: Southern Ties and Complementary Skills
The pairing of J.T.Poston and Keith Mitchell is also drawing attention.Poston’s putting accuracy complements Mitchell’s powerful iron play. while Mitchell has struggled with putting, Poston’s proficiency could be the key to their success.
Mitchell’s past performances at this course, including a sixth-place finish with Sungjae Im and a fourth-place finish with Brandt Snedeker, highlight his potential.playing alongside a friend like Poston could ease the pressure Mitchell often places on himself, potentially unlocking his best performance.
Poston’s runner-up finish at River Highlands and his strong record at Harbour Town, both Pete Dye tracks, suggest that TPC Louisiana is a good fit for him. Both players have strong southern ties, which could give them an edge.
The Importance of Power: Clark and Moore
Historically, powerful drivers have fared well at this tournament. Wyndham Clark, who placed second two years ago, and Taylor Moore fit this profile. However, Moore’s recent rib injury might impact their performance.
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans promises an exciting competition with strategic pairings ready to compete on the challenging course.
PGA Tour Preview: Underdog Duos and Formidable Pairings Vie for Zurich classic Crown
NEW ORLEANS – The zurich Classic of New Orleans,known for its unique team format,presents a compelling challenge for PGA Tour professionals. This year’s edition features a mix of established partnerships and intriguing new pairings,all vying for the coveted title. Several teams offer remarkable value, making this tournament a must-watch for golf enthusiasts.
Horschel and Hoge: A Formidable force?
Billy Horschel and Tom Hoge emerge as a duo with strong potential for success. Hoge’s consistent tee-to-green performance, coupled with Horschel’s flashes of brilliance, positions them as a threat. Hoge’s past victory in a pairs event,the QBE Shootout,underscores his comfort in the team format. If their putting aligns, they could become serious contenders.
Sleeper Pick: Lipsky and Wu Poised to Surprise
David lipsky and Dylan Wu represent a compelling dark horse pick.Wu’s past success at the Zurich Classic, including a 10th-place finish, demonstrates his suitability for the course. lipsky’s improved form, combined with Wu’s steady play, could lead to an unexpected surge, potentially outperforming higher-ranked pairings. The presence of Wu’s brother Jeremy as caddie after a period of illness adds an emotional element to their quest.
Riley and Hardy: Can Previous Success Spark a Repeat?
Davis Riley’s recent form resurgence makes him and partner Nick Hardy a team to watch closely. While Hardy has struggled with his short game, his strong long game, combined with Riley’s red-hot iron play, offers a promising dynamic. Their prior Zurich Classic victory in 2023 proves their ability to excel as a team, even when not at their peak. Riley’s consistent cuts made and near-wins since returning to familiar conditions highlight his current confidence and skill.
Other Potential Contenders
While Horschel/Hoge, Lipsky/Wu, and Riley/Hardy stand out, other pairings could factor into the competition. The team aspect often allows players to elevate their game. The Zurich Classic’s unpredictable nature ensures an exciting tournament with numerous potential outcomes.
PGA Tour Pairs to Watch: Underdogs and Veteran Duos Eye Zurich Classic Glory
AVONDALE, La. — The Zurich Classic of New Orleans, known for its unique team format, tees off with several intriguing pairings aiming to contend. From long-shot duos with local ties to seasoned veterans with a proven track record at this event, the tournament promises compelling storylines.
Kim and Ghim: A Formidable International Pairing
S.H. Kim and Doug Ghim present a compelling partnership,blending Kim’s recent form,including a T7 finish at the Corales Puntacana Championship,with Ghim’s consistency on Dye-designed courses.Ghim’s solid ball-striking and past performances at this event, including an 11th-place finish with Justin Suh, position them as a dark horse contender.
Lashley and Springer: Overcoming Adversity, Chasing Success
Nate Lashley, with improved putting, joins forces with the powerful Hayden Springer. Both players have overcome personal tragedies to reach the PGA Tour, adding an emotional dimension to their partnership. While rookies traditionally face challenges at this event, their combined resilience and determination could make them a compelling story to follow.
Fishburn and Blair: A Study in Contrasts, United by Friendship
Patrick Fishburn, a long hitter, and Zac Blair, known for his precision, form a fascinating duo. Despite entering last year’s event with limited positive form, they secured a fourth-place finish. Fishburn’s recent fifth-place finish and Blair’s runner-up at River Highlands suggest they could be poised for another strong showing.
Mullinax and Shelton: Unleashing Untapped Potential
Trey Mullinax and Robby Shelton, both hailing from Alabama, bring a blend of power and iron play to the competition. mullinax has past experience contending at this event, and Shelton’s solid Korn Ferry Tour form, including a recent top-10 finish, indicates he’s comfortable playing in the Deep South. Their combined talent could unlock their underachieved potential.
Bridgeman and Phillips: Solid Foundation, Seeking Breakthrough
Jacob Bridgeman and Chandler Phillips, who finished 19th in their debut as a team, offer a consistent pairing. Bridgeman’s putting prowess and Phillips’ consistent improvement make them a team capable of surprising. However, a recent struggles for Bridgeman at Harbour Town may hinder their chances, but they still remains a threat.
hoffman and Watney: Veteran Savvy, Targeting Top-20 Consistency
Charley Hoffman and Nick Watney, having played all seven previous editions of the Zurich Classic together, boast an impressive record with five top-20 finishes. Watney’s recent signs of form on the Korn Ferry Tour, combined with Hoffman’s play in the Dominican Republic, suggest they could once again contend for a top-20 spot.
What impact could Rory McIlroy’s recent Masters win have on his performance at the Zurich Classic?
Zurich Classic of new Orleans: Your essential Q&A
Get ready for the Zurich Classic of New Orleans! this unique team event on the PGA tour sparks plenty of interest. Here’s a rapid guide to get you up to speed:
Key Teams & Questions Answered
Q: Who are the favorites this year?
A: The article highlights J.T. Poston/Keith Mitchell and Billy Horschel/Tom Hoge as strong contenders. Horschel’s course history and Hoge’s consistent play make them a team to watch, while Poston’s putting and Mitchell’s power could be a winning combination.
Q: What makes the Zurich Classic so different?
A: It’s a team event! Players compete in pairs, with formats that include best-ball and alternate shot. This team dynamic adds a layer of strategy and excitement not found in typical stroke-play tournaments.
Q: Are the defending champions a threat?
A: While Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry are returning, their odds are steeper this year. Some experts believe McIlroy’s recent Masters victory might affect his preparation.
Q: What about underdog teams?
A: Don’t count them out! The pairs format introduces volatility. Keep an eye on teams like David Lipsky/Dylan Wu, Davis riley/Nick Hardy, S.H. Kim/Doug Ghim,and Patrick Fishburn/Zac Blair. These pairings could surprise.
Q: Why is the Horschel/Hoge pairing considered so strong?
A: Billy Horschel has a stellar course record,including a win at the Zurich Classic. Tom Hoge has been consistently performing well with recent top finishes.Their skills complement each other, making them a formidable force.
Q: what other factors can impact the outcome?
A: Power hitting is frequently enough an advantage at this course. Consider Wyndham Clark/Taylor Moore (though Moore’s rib injury is a concern), and Trey Mullinax/Robby Shelton.Southern ties and team chemistry can also play a role. The emotional component, such as Dylan Wui’s brother caddying, can also boost performance.
Q: Is there a long-shot worth watching?
A: consider the team of Nate Lashley and Hayden Springer. Both players have overcome adversity, adding an emotional dimension to their game. Also, keep an eye on Charley Hoffman and Nick watney, who have played together in all previous Zurich Classics.
Q: What kind of course does this tournament take place on?
A: TPC Louisiana. It’s a Pete Dye-designed course.
Final Thought
With exciting pairings and an unpredictable format,the Zurich Classic of New orleans promises thrilling golf. Keep these teams in mind as you follow the action!
