Power Rankings: 10 Players to Bet This Week at Torrey Pines
Welcome to Power Rankings, a weekly feature on SI Golf from our partners at KeyCompete. The 2024 Farmers Insurance Open once again returns to Torrey Pines and its storied history. It’s also an opportunity for players to lay down an early-season marker.
Course Preview: Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines, a municipal golf treasure, was designed by William F. Bell and opened in 1957. It’s undergone numerous renovations, most notably by Rees Jones in preparation for the 2008 U.S. Open. Its South Course, which will host the bulk of the tournament, is renowned for its punishing layout, breathtaking vistas and strategic complexity. Stretching over 7,700 yards, it demands precision, power and patience.
Recent renovations have further elevated Torrey's challenge. Its kikuyu grass fairways, Poa annua greens and strategic bunkering demand a nuanced approach, rewarding those who can adapt and overcome. Here’s who we're watching this week:
USA Today
KeyCompete Power Rankings for 2024 Farmers Insurance Open
1) Max Homa (+1000): The two greatest home field advantages in sports right now are the Lions in Detroit, and Max Homa in California. His current form is as good as it’s ever been, and there’s no reason to believe he can’t defend his title.
2) Xander Schauffele (+900): A local favorite, Schauffele’s intimate knowledge of Torrey Pines gives him a unique advantage. Combined with his balanced game and recent top finishes, he’s poised for a strong showing.
3) Collin Morikawa (+900): Morikawa’s irons could be the key to conquering Torrey’s challenging greens. His precision and calm demeanor under pressure will serve him well here.
4) Min Woo Lee (+2200): A rising star with a rapidly maturing game, Lee has shown he can compete with the best. His adaptability to tough courses places him high in our rankings.
5) Ludvig Aberg (+1800): The Swedish sensation has been turning heads with his powerful driving and impressive short game. His recent performances indicate he’s ready.
6) Patrick Cantlay (+1000): Known for his strategic approach and consistency, Cantlay’s game fits well here. He’s a steady contender who could easily outperform expectations.
7) Sahith Theegala (+3300): With his dynamic play, fearlessness and ability to make birdies in bunches, he’s a good fit here. T4 last year.
8) Sungjae Im (+2000): Im’s relentless consistency and iron play make him a formidable contender. If he can find his rhythm early, expect him to contend.
9) Jason Day (+2500): The former World No. 1, known for his exceptional short game and experience in big tournaments, has shown glimpses of top form. If fully fit, he could surprise.
10) Tony Finau (+2500): Finau’s top-10 finishes in previous editions suggest he shouldn’t be overlooked.
About Last Week
Key Compete finished the week with a disappointing 4-4-1 record on matchups, but our record on the year is 17-9 for a total gain of 5 units.