John Deere Classic

The John Deere Classic has been known as one of the least attractive events on Tour for yearsm and it still offers up the least prize money of any event on the regular summer schedule (that isn't opposing a WGC or major event).  Still, I'd arguer that, at least in 2010, the Deere's field isn't half bad, and has risen above events like the Nelson, Zurich and a couple others.

Steve Stricker is the headliner here and he's also the defending champion.  While his form has been off since early in the year due to injury, I'd expect a rebound this week.  If not, I can't see him being much of a factor until after the PGA.

The other favorites this week who have notched positive results on this track include Tim Clark (second and 18th in two apps.), Zach Johnson (second in 2009 to Stricker), Jonathan Byrd (a win and a second), and Kenny Perry, who has five top 10s in nine starts.  Of those guys, Clark and Johnson have already posted victories in 2010 and are very capable of doing the same here.  Perry isn't really on form, and seems like a long shot to ever regain the top spot on the regular tour.

Others playing well entering this week that are in the field include Jason Day, KJ Choi, Rickie Fowler and Jeff Overton, all of whom are establishing themselves as top 20 players on tour for the 2010 season.  Each should be making some money this week.  Bubba Watson is here too, coming off his win in Connecticut.  I'd be surprised if he repeats in his frost event after a huge, huge moment for him.

Most Talent
Stricker
Fowler
Choi
Z. Johnson
Clark

Course History
Perry
Stricker
Byrd
JP Hayes
K. Sutherland

Who's Hot?
B. Watson
J. Day
Overton
Fowler
Choi

Who's Not?
Stricker
Perry
Mediate
Duval
Love

My Picks
Fowler
J. Day
Choi
Overton
Clark
Stricker

Cheers,
TFAM