The PGA Tour continues on this week as it visits La Quinta, California, for the 2023 The American Express. La Quinta Country Club, the PGA West Nicklaus Tournament Course, and the PGA West Stadium Course will all play host to this year’s tournament, which was first held in 1960. Last year’s edition was won by Hudson Swafford, who came from three behind in the final round to win this tournament for the second time in five years.
Player to Fade:
Everyone loves Jon Rahm based off of his first two events, but let’s remember his Strokes Gained: Around-The-Green is higher than usual. With three different courses and a Pete Dye design in the mix, I think he will struggle. I know everyone is on the Rahm train, but I just don’t see it at this event.
Dark Horse:
Cam Davis finished 3rd in this event in 2021 and seems to really like the feel of the Stadium Course. He is solid off the tee, but can make a run against the odds. He has it in him to play well and turn those bets upside down.
Top 10:
One thing we know about Scottie Scheffler is that he is consistently good. His strong suit is keeping it together over a matter of days and I think these courses will provide him an opportunity to play some of his best golf. Scottie has come a long way in his career since the last American Express tournament. I think that mentally, he will be able to put some solid golf together this year.
Winner:
Cameron Young is definitely a favorite this week to take home the win. With three courses to navigate, Young has the distance to put himself in scoring position. The Pete Dye course is always a test, but his length should keep him from too much trouble.