Deep in The Rough: The EDS Byron Nelson Championship

Wow, if you caught the end of last week’s Verizon Heritage, you would know that Boo Weekley won for the second straight year. This is a very rare thing in golf, but the man deserves some serious respect. The Heritage is a very tough event, and Boo Weekley showed that he is capable of winning at the highest level. This is the same guy who got caught going through airport security on his way to a tourney with bullets in his bag, which makes him that much more likable. He’s a big hunter guys, not a psychopath.

That being said, let’s move on to the event of the week, the EDS Byron Nelson Championship. Last year, Scott Verplank finished with a 66 to take a one shot victory over Luke Donald. This year, there are a number of candidates consider, so allow me to help you sift through the rough.

Players to Consider

Adam Scott: Scott hasn’t played here since 2006, but he finished in a tie for 3rd. He is due to have a big week somewhere, and this just might be it. He is one of the best players in the world, and it is getting close to time for him to win something.

Rory Sabbatini: Rory has a big mouth, but he also should be a good pick this week. The A-List is a little thin, and Rory also tied for 3rd here last year. This hasn’t been Rory’s best year so far, but with a thinner field, he may be a breakout candidate as well.

Sean O’Hair: Sean laid an egg last week at the Heritage, but he has been playing well and he has done well at this event in the past, finishing 2nd in 2005 and 2 top 25’s his other years playing. Look for a strong bounce back week.

Ian Poulter: Ian started off great at the Masters, but finished in a tie for 25th. He has a strong track record in this event, including a tie for 3rd last year. Pick with confidence this week.

Trevor Immelman: The question is, will winning the Masters boost or slow Immelman’s game in the coming events? Last year, Zach Johnson proved it to be a booster, this year we can bet the same for Immelman.

Players to Avoid

Scott Verplank: Yes, he won here last year, and yes he is a wily vet, but he has had a pretty bad year with only one top 10 and 3 missed cuts. I’d use this week to evaluate his play for the rest of the year.

Nick Watney: Watney was a common pick last year, but he has yet to come in the top 50 at this event throughout his career. Steer clear.

My Picks

A List:

*Adam Scott
Rory Sabbatini


B List:

*Sean O’Hair
*Ian Poulter
Anthony Kim
Chad Campbell

C List:

*Trevor Immelman
Luke Donald

I am starting big Adam, Sean, Ian, and Trevor. Kim played well last week, Campbell has a good track record here, and Donald is probably the best C list player, so if he is in the event, you should have him on your team.

Remember, this format matches the Fantasy Golf format of Yahoo Fantasy sports. If you are looking to give it a try, sign up at fantasysports.yahoo.com. It's a blast.

Thanks all, and good luck this week!

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