PGA Phoenix Open Best Bets Plus Top 20 Model Picks For DFS

As the PGA Tour calendar flips to February, the golfing world turns its gaze towards the desert oasis of Scottsdale, Arizona, where the 2024 Phoenix Open is set to unfold. Known affectionately as "The Greatest Show on Grass," the event is unparalleled, blending top-tier golf with an electric party atmosphere that is unmatched in the sport.

The TPC Scottsdale, with its iconic Stadium Course, serves as the perfect backdrop for this unique blend of sport and spectacle. The 16th hole, a par-3 surrounded by grandstands, transforms into an arena, offering a gladiatorial stage for golfers and an unrivaled experience for spectators. It's here that the roars of the crowd can turn a simple tee shot into a moment of high drama, making the Phoenix Open a bucket-list event for fans and a must-win for players.

A Look Back at Champions

The honor roll of past Phoenix Open winners reads like a who's who of golfing royalty. From the precision of Jon Rahm to the power of Brooks Koepka, and the resilience of Webb Simpson, the event has crowned champions who excel under the unique pressures of TPC Scottsdale. Last year's victor, whose strategic play and nerveless putting clinched the title, will be back to defend his crown against a field brimming with talent.

Key to Success at TPC Scottsdale

Success at the Phoenix Open often comes down to a blend of accuracy and aggression. The course, known for its forgiving fairways, still punishes those who stray too far from the beaten path. Players who can combine pinpoint accuracy with the courage to take on the Stadium Course's riskier shots, particularly around the notorious 16th, often find themselves in contention come Sunday.

Statistically, strong iron play and a hot putter are the tools most needed to navigate TPC Scottsdale successfully. Past winners have consistently ranked high in Greens in Regulation (GIR) and Strokes Gained: Putting during their victorious weeks, showcasing the importance of a sharp short game amidst the party-like atmosphere.

The Party Atmosphere

What truly sets the Phoenix Open apart is the unparalleled atmosphere. The event is as much a social gathering as it is a golf tournament, attracting over 700,000 fans throughout the week. The 16th hole, with its stadium seating, embodies the essence of the event, where golf claps are replaced by raucous cheers and the energy is more akin to a football game than a traditional golf tournament.

As the sun sets over the desert, the festivities continue off-course with concerts and events that ensure the party doesn't stop when the day's play is done. This year's lineup promises to be as star-studded as the field itself, making the 2024 Phoenix Open the place to be this February.

Wrapping Up

The 2024 Phoenix Open is more than just a golf tournament; it's a celebration of the sport, set against the backdrop of one of its most entertaining venues. As the pros tee up to tackle the challenges of TPC Scottsdale, fans can look forward to a week of world-class golf and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're drawn to the skill of the players or the spirit of the spectacle, the Phoenix Open promises to deliver on all fronts.

The Model

• Driving Distance (27%): In the desert landscape of Scottsdale, where the fairways are generous but the desert lurks ominously for the errant shot, power off the tee is a significant advantage. The model allocates a hefty 27% to driving distance, acknowledging that longer hitters can shorten holes and turn challenging par-4s into birdie opportunities. However, it's not just brute force; strategic power plays a crucial role in navigating the risk-reward nature of TPC Scottsdale.

• Putting (17%): The greens at TPC Scottsdale are renowned for their speed and subtlety, making putting a critical factor in a player's success. Accounting for 17% of the model, a hot putter can be the difference-maker, turning pars into birdies and keeping momentum on a player's side amidst the electric atmosphere.

• Around the Green (13%): The undulating greens and strategic bunker placements demand excellence in the short game. This 13% allocation underscores the importance of creativity and finesse around the greens, allowing players to save pars and maintain a steady scorecard even when greens in regulation are missed.

• Approach (23%): Precision on approach shots is paramount at TPC Scottsdale, where hitting the right section of the green can set up birdie opportunities, and missing can lead to challenging two-putts or worse. The model's 23% weighting on approach play highlights the significance of iron play, particularly on holes like the 16th, where the pressure is amplified, and accuracy is rewarded.

• Driving Accuracy (20%): While the fairways might be more forgiving than most, the penalty for missing them is severe. The model gives a substantial 20% weight to driving accuracy, emphasizing the importance of keeping the ball in play. In the high-energy environment of the Phoenix Open, minimizing errors off the tee is crucial to maintaining composure and building a score.
  
  Winner

Top 5

Top 20 DFS Players


1. Eric Cole - $8,500
2. Adam Scott - $8,300
3. Scottie Scheffler - $11,600
4. Max Homa - $9,800
5. Akshay Bhatia - $7,800
6. Shane Lowry - $7,700
7. Min Woo Lee - $8,700
8. Sahith Theegala - $9,100
9. Lucas Glover - $7,200
10. J.T. Poston - $8,900
11. Wyndham Clark - $9,000
12. Billy Horschel - $7,100
13. Byeong Hun An - $8,800
14. Daniel Berger - $7,700
15. Doug Ghim - $6,800
16. Alex Noren - $7,900
17. Adam Svensson - $7,000
18. Justin Thomas - $10,000
19. Gary Woodland - $7,000
20. Grayson Murray - $6,600