Charles Schwab Challenge: Player-by-player guide to entire field

AN, Byeong Hun

• Course form: MC-68
• Scoring average: 71.33

Popular on social media ever since a superb retaliation to Grayson Murray's latest nonsense a few years ago, but has not kicked on as had been expected since Wentworth win in 2015. It's all down to the putter, of course, and from tee-to-green he's genuinely top-class. If you think that's over the top, consult last year's strokes-gained stats, which have just six players ahead of him, each elite. Now, An's stats are boosted by what he does around the greens but the point is if he holes putts he'll start to win tournaments. Had a great chance at the Wyndham last year when beaten by a player who went bogey-free for the tournament. This isn't the snappiest start to what's going to be a real grind for you, but stick at it.

ANCER, Abraham

• Course form: 52-58
• Scoring average: 70.25

Subject of some nonsense #takes at the Presidents Cup, and a bit of a needless line from Tiger, who beat him in the singles, but should serve him well in the long-run. Back at the start of the year was one of several of those International players to return to action in top form and had a great chance to win the Desert Classic, which would've been his first PGA Tour title. Still waiting, then, but he's become a really solid player and he's got some valuable Colonial experience to his name. Born in Texas, too.

BERGER, Daniel

• Course form: MC-53
• Scoring average: 71.00

Forgotten man of the 2017 Presidents Cup side whose career has stalled since, chiefly due to injury. Since returning last year he's done plenty right, however, and form figures of 9-5-4 prior to the shutdown were supplemented by an opening 68 at Sawgrass. Timing couldn't have been worse, then, but at least he gets to tackle some ideal courses now back in action. Although River Highlands stands out - he was mugged there by Jordan Spieth three years ago - it's not as though Colonial is somehow unsuitable; indeed it ties in quite nicely with Southwind where he's twice a winner. Doing everything well.

BEZUIDENHOUT, Christiaaaaaaaaaan

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Not sure fairytale or feel-good are the right ways to describe his story, because it begins with ingesting rat poison as a child, and goes on to include being disqualified from the Amateur Championship because of the medication he was on to deal with the long-lasting effects of that life-threatening, life-changing incident, and still involves a speech impediment he has to work hard to deal with. And yet, here he is on the PGA Tour, having won on the European Tour last year at the expense of a certain Jon Rahm. He's impossible not to admire, and it's a mark of the man that his response to blowing a big chance in Dubai earlier this year was to win back home in South Africa two weeks later. Continues to improve, and his blend of pinpoint iron play and a sharp short-game is exactly how Kevin Na got it done here last year.

BLAIR, Zac

• Course form: 62-MC-MC
• Scoring average: 71.38

Coiffured captain of woke golf, being an advocate of quality design and architecture while embracing social media. It's little wonder he likes things the old way, given that he's a short, straight-hitting type - though this isn't to diminish the validity of his views. Anyway, he's done fairly well this season but will need to strike the ball better to go ahead and win for the first time at this level. That said if and when the win does come, it'll likely be on a course like this one.

BRADLEY, Keegan

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 72.00

Twitchy sort who would be among the most likely to star alongside Mason Overstreet in a golfers' am-dram version of Dead Poets Society. When he's not acting, he's typically found missing short putts on Friday having looked fairly convincing just hours earlier, giving rise to the phrase 'Full Keegan', which is taken to mean 63-75=MC. Truth be told his numbers aren't quite so dramatic (fewer first-round leads than you'd perhaps think) but with four wins in a decade on the PGA Tour, none of them as anything like one of the favourites, he's hard to get right. Bad putters can win here but he shot 72-72 on his sole previous visit and, perversely, the biggest positive might be the field strength. For some reason (and it's probably more to do with nature of golf course), he seems to win only when the best in the world are around to see it.

BROWN, Scott

• Course form: MC-MC-33-MC-12-MC-48
• Scoring average: 70.85

Capable of occasional bursts of high-class form, as demonstrated at Riviera this year and in Canada last. Still boasts just the one, opposite-field victory in Puerto Rico, and is one of those who faces an uphill battle from the tee as a short hitter. He's coped just fine this season but is hard to get excited about. Note that he's twice been in the top five after the opening round here and it's likely any leaderboard sighting is just as fleeting as they proved to be.

BROWNE, Olin

• Course form: I refuse to type it out
• Scoring average: 70.36

Wait... what?

BURGOON, Bronson

• Course form: MC-MC
• Scoring average: 72.50

Texan whose swing is pleasing on the eye; one of those who looks like they should be better than they have so far proven to be. Followed withdrawal from the Honda Classic with a decent start at Sawgrass - he was one-under playing the last - but it's some time since he put four rounds together, and never has he been competitive in this sort of company. MC-MC at Colonial, too, although prominent ranking (7th) in birdie average stats plus local ties may pique your interest even it they don't mine.

CABRERA BELLO, Rafael

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Sun's out, guns out for this handsome devil, who had begun to show a little more in the spring with back-to-back top-20 finishes. Still, there's no denying the fact he's now more than a year on from his most recent PGA Tour top-10, with all of his best form produced when returning to the comforting embrace of the European Tour. Remains a friend to the DFS player but rarely the punter, and is one to treat with caution ahead of his Colonial debut.

CAMPBELL, Chad

• Course form: 28-40-2-MC-30-36-MC-WD-MC-MC-41-MC-30-MC-10-34-42
• Scoring average: 69.64

Former Ryder Cup player who is well past his best having recently turned 46. Loads of good rounds under his belt here, including a course-record 61, and has twice led into the final round. Still, a top-20 finish for this Texan, playing on an invite, would be surprising enough.

CAULEY, Bud

• Course form: MC-14-21-41-MC
• Scoring average: 69.81

Injury-prone talent who is at least used to things being stop-start; as well as suffering with a bad shoulder for years, he spent time away after a horrific car accident in 2018. Very solid so far this year, particularly his iron play, and I still believe the pieces are going to fall into place soon for someone who was once among the very brightest stars in the world. Could do with tidying up from the tee and is capable of much, much more than he's shown if able to solve that problem.

CHAMP, Cameron

• Course form: 58
• Scoring average: 71.25

Fires his hips like Darcy Bussell in a drunken tussle, and it works: Champ is one of the longest hitters in the sport. 'That will only get you so far' they'll say, and they're not necessarily wrong, but two awesome displays off the tee have helped him pick up two PGA Tour wins in his first two seasons. To get competitive on a more consistent basis he'll need to do brush up on his approach play, but his particular method is one which lends itself to popping up unannounced. Wouldn't have thought it'll happen here, though, and for now both wins at a lower level.

CLARK, Wyndham

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 73.50

Dynamite putter who wallops it off the tee and has shown flourishes of real quality throughout a season and a half at this level. Bit disconcerting to see him spraying it all over the shop and his ball-striking in general needs to improve. Perhaps he might try, I don't know, not using PXG clubs? Just a thought, but in the meantime it's hard to see how this goes well for him and the breakthrough will probably have to wait a while.

CLEARWATER, Keith

• Course form: He won this in 1987
• Scoring average: With weekend 64s

Keith... Clearwater...?

CONNERS, Corey

• Course form: 8-31
• Scoring average: 69.00

Part of a nice little collection of Canadian players on the circuit right now and could go right to the top if he can work out how to putt. Despite ranking among the worst on the circuit both last year and this, he's managed to go from qualifier on Monday to champion on Sunday at the Texas Open, and has since been flirting with the world's top 50. Victory in San Antonio confirmed he only needs to putt to a proficient level to have a squeak and though he's not been great so far this year, this is a very good course for him, and he did start well in the PLAYERS.

CORPENING, Franklin

• Course form: 14-MC-MC
• Scoring average: 70.13

Owes his invite to some strong local ties, with dad and grandfather both former Colonial members. Shot 62 here in 2013, finishing 12th, but last appeared in 2016. Has been practicing here, though, and I feel sure he'll get a mention somewhere. Don't fall for it.

DAHMEN, Joel

• Course form: 20-MC
• Scoring average: 69.50

Popular character who has slowly climbed the ladder having overcome some serious challenges in his life. Disappointing to see him fail to convert in the Scottsdale Open during this hiatus, and even more disappointing that he didn't appear to care much for silly things like social distancing. Shouldn't be judged solely on those missteps and the hope is the PGA Tour will be firmer. As for his form, it's been very strong (14-5-5 before Scottsdale) as he seeks to take inspiration from friend Nick Taylor's Pebble Beach win. Five of his six rounds here have been under-par.

DAVIS, Cameron

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Ambidextrous Aussie who followed an excellent amateur career by winning the Australian Open in 2017. Quickly graduated to the PGA Tour and much better in his second season, producing a string of solid results since January - including eighth in the Honda Classic. Big-hitter with a big future, especially now there are signs the putter is coming round.

DAY, Jason

• Course form: MC-4-50-31
• Scoring average: 68.50

Five years now since he conquered the world, reaching the top of the rankings and winning the PGA Championship. Having fallen 50 places since, he's a shadow of his former self and would no doubt blame matters of health, which have certainly played their part. Short-game remains dynamite - his around-the-green numbers for the current season are absurd - but putter isn't firing as it was, and his iron play has been poor for several years now. Suddenly very hard to see a path back to the top but it would amuse plenty were he to prove otherwise by playing eight of the next nine tournaments, something beyond comprehension for golf's own Darren Anderton (husband of Julie). Almost a decade since he played here although was fourth in 2009.

DECHAMBEAU, Bryson

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Every man wants to be a macho macho man
To have the kind of body, always in demand
Jogging in the mornings, go man go
Works out in the health spa, muscles glow
You can best believe that, he's a macho man
Ready to get down with, anyone he can

Hey! Hey! Hey, hey, hey!
Macho, macho man (macho man)
I've got to be, a macho man
Macho, macho man
I've got to be a macho! Ow....

Now one of the best drivers in the sport having committed himself to the gym. It's not that he was a poor one before, but now he ranks right up there with the behemoths and it's because of the distance, which is because of the clubhead speed, which is because of the gym work. Yes, he's a bit of a prat, and he could do with a close friend who a) isn't a prat and b) can tell him when he's being a prat/legitimising a murderous regime. But look, life isn't simple... especially when you make everything complicated. But he's splendid. And he might go on to be great, his dedication to improvement reminiscent of the more charming loon, Padraig Harrington. Here and now he won't gain as much off the tee as he might elsewhere but he's nevertheless one of the key contenders if able to overcome a lack of course knowledge.

DUFNER, Jason

• Course form: MC-59-MC-2-46-2-43-6-MC-MC-40
• Scoring average: 69.56

Twice a runner-up here at Colonial, where as a Ben Hogan acolyte he'd dearly love to win. That form is dated, as is all of his best, but there had been some signs of promise prior to the PLAYERS where I put him up at 350/1 and was encouraged by an opening 68. Looks capable of picking up another title at some stage and could even come here if the putter behaves.

DUNCAN, Tyler

• Course form: 71
• Scoring average: 70.25

Won the RSM Classic late last year, beating Webb Simpson in a play-off. One of those you just cannot explain, and his form since is more in keeping with his poor results prior. Has at least bought himself time to figure things out, but the only thing he was doing well when last seen was hitting fairways. It won't get him far.

ENGLISH, Harris

• Course form: 5-MC-30-2-29-20
• Scoring average: 68.91

Back to his best after years of toil, and will have been really miffed to have had the PLAYERS rug taken from underneath his feet after an opening 65. Still, it's basically good news for this drawling, balling southerner, who was once touted as the Next Big Thing. Didn't Bob Estes say he'd be better than Jordan Spieth? Heck, he's probably right these days. Anyway, English has a truly excellent record here (two top-fives, and five top-30 finishes in six), even when he couldn't keep his drives in bounds, so he seems sure to be popular. Stats back up his results, too: he's gaining strokes in all four departments, he's fifth in greens hit, and he's rapidly returning to where he belongs.

FINAU, Tony

• Course form: 19-34-29-2
• Scoring average: 68.94

Good egg who was absolutely robbed in Phoenix, having appeared set to end his long wait for a second PGA Tour victory. Took that in his stride, along with subsequent, genius tribute song from the excellent Sam Harrop (see below), and will be winning again at some stage. Colonial wouldn't look an obvious fit but he was runner-up last year, has made all four cuts, and boasts a sub-69 scoring average. Often saves his best for the strongest fields (albeit opened with 75 at Sawgrass) so if you are going to back him, at least do so in an event like this where you can get paid out if he does find a couple too good again.

FITZPATRICK, Matt

• Course form: 64
• Scoring average: 71.50

Arrived in the US just in time to complete a two-week quarantine and gear up for a busy run, having decided to set up camp in Florida for the next five months. Quarantine hasn't been quite as restrictive as it may sound - he's been able to practice at the nearby Bear's Club - but his preparation is nevertheless a concern. Prior to leaving the UK, had been hitting balls at home for half an hour a day before struggling to score when finally getting onto a course, and confessed to Golf Channel that his expectations are low. Still, made for this and is one to watch for any signs of promise ahead of Hilton Head. Yes, if you hadn't heard, he likes it there - even if his results don't quite show it yet.

FOWLER, Rickie

• Course form: 38-16-5-54-MC-14-MC
• Scoring average: 69.75

Turbulent 2019 included a bacterial infection from which he only just recovered in time for the Presidents Cup. Also split from long-time coach(es), Butch and Claude Harmon, and now works with John Tillery. New swing was put to the test in the final group of The American Express and he stalled there, though there's been promise since which has been undermined by slow starts - another of which he produced at Sawgrass. Overall signs are encouraging and he looked pretty sharp in the TaylorMade Driving Relief skins game which he and partner Matt Wolff lost in a nearest-the-pin play-off. That competitive outing can't hurt and he has rounds of 63 and 64 here to his name, albeit at the start of his career.

FRITTELLI, Dylan

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Played college golf in Texas and has gradually fulfilled his potential since, despite for a while looking completely lost on the Challenge Tour. Won last year's John Deere Classic despite losing strokes with his approach shots, a rare thing indeed and made possible only by astounding short-game numbers. He'd be a threat here if reproducing them, though that's rather like trapping lightning in a bottle. Bit troubled by issues with the driver that have arisen lately as that club threatened to end his career prematurely a few years ago.

FROST, David

• Course form: 1997 winner
• Scoring average: 71.92. This year. On the Champions Tour.

Wait until that Korn Ferry Tour fella who got angry at Vijay finds out about this. I mean, seriously - could they not have said 'with respect, gents, we need to put a limit on the past champions category for now'? Yes, they could. Still, that was some performance when he won here *twenty-three years ago*.

FURYK, Jim

• Course form: 38-8-2-55-8-22-MC-5-26-17-2-MC-9-MC-31-4-31-51-MC-66-13
• Scoring average: 69.00

Still topping those driving accuracy and greens in regulation charts at 50 (fully 12 years younger than Frosty), and still capable of competing when putting the ball in play is of paramount importance, or else when that one-eyed stare tells us his iron play is especially hot. Showed all that to be true with second place in the PLAYERS last year, and though he's not achieved much this year a second-round 68 at the Honda followed by an opening 71 back at Sawgrass was more like it. Used to lengthy enough breaks though tends not to be all that competitive on his first start out of them, but did play in the final group here last spring.

GARCIA, Sergio

• Course form: 1-MC-MC-35-MC-16-13-12
• Scoring average: 69.77

Brilliant winner on debut here in 2001, shooting a final-round 63 to defy the numbers which dictate that experience goes such a long way at Colonial. No top-10 finishes in seven subsequent visits but twice opened with rounds of 66 and contended last time he was here; it remains a good course for him. Subtle hints of promise this season, especially off the tee, and returning in Texas fits nicely. Could go well if he can bring everything together at a course which rewards his ability to shape the ball.

GARNETT, Brice

• Course form: 30-MC-MC-40
• Scoring average: 70.50

Impressive winner in the Dominican Republic two years ago and certainly knows how to get the job done. Good putting week saw him finish 11th in the Honda last time and best caught on technical, shorter courses when there's a bit of breeze around ideally. Led at halfway here on debut (67-66) and possible he could feature early on once more.

GAY, Brian

• Course form: 41-2-68-45-14-57-12-MC-10-27-33-31-MC-WD-57-34-13
• Scoring average: 69.61

Looks increasingly like yer dad after the divorce, but is a much better putter. Yet to win here and that isn't about to change, 20 years on from his first attempt.

GHIM, Doug

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 72

Former world amateur number one who was beaten in the final of the US Am and went on to make the cut at the Masters. Professional career yet to really get going but did hole a ballsy putt to earn his PGA Tour card. Hasn't built on that yet and improvement needed throughout the bag, but most missed cuts haven't been disastrous and now has a bit more time to get comfortable. Shot 75-69 here in 2019.

GLOVER, Lucas

• Course form: MC-MC-MC-29-15-41-44-40-MC-MC-43-MC-MC
• Scoring average: 70.45

It's over 200 starts since this former US Open winner added the Wells Fargo to his collection, and as a supreme ball-striker it's those long, championship courses which have tended to bring out his best. Turned 40 late last year but no real sign of an upturn in fortunes since, especially now that last season's improved putting stats have been forgotten. Keeps coming back here so must enjoy his visits to Fort Worth, but for a player of his talent the fact he hasn't bettered 15th place in 13 starts tells us plenty.

GOOCH, Talor

• Course form: MC-29
• Scoring average: 71.17

Like his dad, Graham, he's not flashy, but he is effective, and he arrives here having made his last 12 cuts, albeit an opening 74 at Sawgrass had placed that sequence under threat. A bit of breeze would probably help his prospects as he seems to enjoy toughing it out, and he does have some solid Colonial form courtesy of last year's share of 29th. One of those for whom the break basically came at a bad time but his trajectory has been steadily upward for a while and he is more than capable of winning on the PGA Tour.

GRACE, Branden

• Course form: 53
• Scoring average: 71.00

Endured such a difficult 2019 that he managed to miss out on selection for a Presidents Cup side captained by Ernie Els. Perhaps the result would've been different had this terrier played, and it was nice to see him come out fighting with a closing 62 to win the SA Open followed by more encouragement in Abu Dhabi and Phoenix. Progress has stalled a little since then, but Riviera and Mexico are easily forgiven and he might get back on track returned to the east coast. Former winner at Harbour Town so watch for signs of life at Colonial, where he made a low-key debut last year but at least played four rounds.

GRIFFIN, Lanto

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

One of the success stories of the season, one which started with six consecutive top-20 finishes, among which was his first PGA Tour win. That came in Houston, which is a nice little bonus, and he's since held his form to climb inside the world's top 100 and build a platform for a lengthy career at this level. The fact he's now practicing with Vijay Singh is interesting - who better to learn from when it comes to dedication - and his all-round game means he can attack his first look at Colonial with confidence.

GRILLO, Emiliano

• Course form: 55-24-3-19
• Scoring average: 68.94

More disappointing than Alton Towers given his pedigree, as one of that fabled Class of '11. Like many, I had particularly high hopes when he won on the Korn Ferry (née Web.com) Tour and then won immediately on the PGA Tour, especially as he managed the latter despite ranking a lowly 61st in putting. Alas, the putter has held him back with only rare exceptions, such as the career-best week he had here two years ago only for Justin Rose and Brooks Koepka to spoil it by confining him to third place. Frustrating, like everything else he's done for the last half a decade.

HAAS, Bill

• Course form: 77-MC-13-8-55-21-47-12-14-48
• Scoring average: 69.79

Involved in a serious, fatal car crash at Riviera two years ago and, though he returned a month later to finish seventh, we can now look back to that period as the one which began his fall from something approaching elite level. Once ranked 12th in the world and still on the fringes of the top 50 back then, he's now down at 518th and could only muster 27th in Puerto Rico when last seen. Younger than you might think at 38, but increasingly hard to imagine a route back to where he was. Still, nine cuts made in 10 visits here, and an under-par scoring average, will put him on the radar of those spying a fantasy golf bargain.

HADLEY, Chesson

• Course form: MC-24-MC-20-31
• Scoring average: 70.50

Like Brown, Finau, and others, he's a former Puerto Rico Open winner who hasn't added to that victory since. Shares a coach with last year's winner - and Justin Timberlake - but the reach for some kind of positive nugget says enough. Capable on his day but hard to predict.

HADWIN, Adam

• Course form: 5-22-53-52
• Scoring average: 69.19

Likeable Canadian who started the season nicely and performed well at the Presidents Cup. Took January off having become a father but returned in solid enough form, following up 29th at Riviera with a nice opening round at the PLAYERS. Admitted a few weeks ago to struggling to motivate himself to practice and keep fit from his base in Kansas, but won't be alone in that and can at least look forward to returning to Colonial, where his form reads 5-22-53-52. Note that when he shot 59 at the CareerBuilder Challenge, he'd been off for 10 weeks prior.

HARMAN, Brian

• Course form: MC-30-10-25-7-14-31
• Scoring average: 69.27

Has a reputation for being tenacious and though there's a risk of attaching that to every golfer who is less than six-feet tall, in this case it's earned. Made Brooks Koepka work for it at the 2017 US Open and holed out to beat Dustin Johnson and co in the Wells Fargo, having done the same to beat Zach Johnson in the John Deere. Due another win (those came in 2014 and 2017) but no real sign of it coming so far this year. That said, since a poor debut at Colonial he's made six cuts from six, finishing between seventh and 31st, and averaging more than a shot under-par per round. If he's managed to get that putter back to where it was, he'll go well.

HARRINGTON, Scott

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

One of the success stories of the Korn Ferry Tour last year, graduating thanks to the shot of his life - his words - and earning reward and validation after years of toil, on and off the course. Started his rookie season really well, flushing his way to second place in Houston where anything like a decent putting week would've seen him deny Lanto Griffin. Hasn't been able to reproduce that - finished a lowly 47th at Bay Hill despite leading the field in putting - and was not a factor in the Scottsdale Open.

HENRY, J.J.

• Course form: 68-MC-MC-MC-68-52-MC-22-44-MC-MC-42-57-MC-MC-MC-MC-27
• Scoring average: 70.73

Fort Worth resident has been invited back to play in the event for the 19th time in succession, despite not yet managing to crack the top 20 and missing 10 cuts in 18 so far. Hasn't looked like winning again since August 2015 and victory in the Barracuda.

HERMAN, Jim

• Course form: 33-29
• Scoring average: 69.25

Finest hour came down in Houston where he beat world-class opposition to earn an eleventh-hour Masters invite. Won again last year, this time in moderate company and in spite of a run of abysmal form beforehand. Would wager his Colonial scoring average is up there with his best across all events, and for that reason he's worth a second glance.

HICKOK, Kramer

• Course form: MC-MC
• Scoring average: 73.00

Arrived on the scene with a fairly tall reputation, but in retrospect it looks like it was more about the company he keeps, with Jordan Spieth a friend and former roommate. In fairness, he's looked good at a lower level in Canada and had no issues winning back his card at Korn Ferry Tour Finals, but his efforts at this level need dramatic improvement. Did okay in the Honda and has at least played in this twice; however, best round is a one-over 71 and he was down the field in one of the Maridoe events. Hard to fancy.

HIGGS, Harry

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Texas-based slugger who won a shootout on the Korn Ferry Tour last year on his way to this higher level. Distant second to Brendon Todd in Bermuda all but secured his status for 2021 and he's backed it up, notably with a big-boy top-10 at the Farmers. Not all that surprising he went well at Torrey Pines, given how well he drives the ball, and while there's still work to do in other areas he's impressed a lot of people. Played in both editions of the Maridoe Invitational, finishing fourth and 31st, but need to sharpen up his approach play or else rely on a white-hot putter despite scoring well on the par-fours all season.

HOFFMAN, Charley

• Course form: 30-MC-46-13-18-51-10-42-24-52-13
• Scoring average: 69.30

Augusta specialist who probably ought to have more than four titles in the locker, the most recent of which came in the 2016 Texas Open. Now 43, he's lacking a little on and around the greens - and his long-game hasn't been quite good enough to cover the gap. Still makes a heck of a lot of birdies and has made 10 of 11 cuts here, largely thanks to quality ball-striking. With rounds of 63 in each of his last two visits, he's clearly one to consider at a big price having shown just a little more at Bay Hill and Sawgrass back in March. If you are treating this like a major, you must surely have a small first-round leader punt and hope for one more of those 63s.

HOGE, Tom

• Course form: 17-42-40
• Scoring average: 69.42

Unspectacular type who has nevertheless taken his game to new levels over the last 12 months. Hard to know exactly where it came from, but suddenly he's producing consistently strong ball-striking stats, the like of which underpin long-term success, and three top-sixes for the season already seem sure to make it his best yet. That this has all come just as he stood upon the brink makes it all the more baffling, but I will get told off if I go over 120 words on Tom Bloody Hoge. Opened with a round of 70 at Sawgrass and might extend his run of cuts made at this event to four from four.

HOMA, Max

• Course form: MC-27
• Scoring average: 70.83

Salvaged his career on the Web.com Tour and took advantage back on the PGA Tour when beating a high-class field at Quail Hollow last summer. That was a hugely popular success for a player best known these days for his twitter swing analysis, which is always funny and often hilarious. Plays aggressively and putts well, with last year's solid top-30 here enough to put him on the radar. Break came at a bad time: he'd made all seven cuts, six of them good enough for top-25s, to begin the year; if he picks up where he left off the Ryder Cup could even come into consideration.

HORSCHEL, Billy

• Course form: 34-19
• Scoring average: 69.88

Gotham's finest, and one of the most likeable do-gooders on the circuit; proof that you shouldn't always judge a man by the company he keeps (see: Zurich Classic win). His last individual success came in Texas and he's also scored in Louisiana and Georgia, so this Florida Gator is clearly one who reserves his very best golf for the east coast. It's been three years since that victory, but he's regularly hit the frame in the interim and it's interesting to note he's made a strength of the putter. That could result in something spectacular should his long-game return to its very best and he's a player I'd be positive about in the long-term, especially now he's left PXG. Might want a slightly tougher test than this one, but form figures of 34-19 are rock-solid, and so is he.

HOSSLER, Beau

• Course form: MC-64-40
• Scoring average: 70.90

Brilliant amateur who has quickly established himself on the PGA Tour and would've won the Houston Open two years ago but for Ian Poulter engaging Ryder Cup mode. Went on to finish second again at the Travelers but no top-fives at this level since, and had to drop down to the Korn Ferry Tour to get his card back. Some good signs this year though, with an element of consistency returning, and this long-time Texas resident can keep progressing having gone MC-64-40 here.

HOVLAND, Viktor

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Even better than Hossler as an amateur, winning the United States Amateur Championship and then making cuts at Augusta and Pebble Beach in majors last year. Already a winner as a professional, taking the Puerto Rico Open, and there's just no way he's going to fall victim to the supposed hoodoo of that event. It's true that he hasn't done much away from that win this year, but time is on his side and he played nicely enough in those two Maridoe events, finishing third despite an opening 75 in the first before a so-so 11th in the second. Many felt he'd be making his Ryder Cup debut this year and while the delay probably hasn't helped him, he still has a chance to earn a spot should it go ahead. Note that Pete Cowen described his short-game as 'one of out 10' when they began working together, so he can get better and better yet.

HOWELL, Charles III

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 73.00

Quiet since his reliably solid start to the year in the Sony Open, and largely a non-factor since that fabulous victory in the RSM Classic a couple of years ago. Seems the aim every year is to get into the Masters field for this Augusta resident and he's now got time to do that, although he'll need to show more. Much more. Hasn't played here since 2002.

HUBBARD, Mark

• Course form: 62
• Scoring average: 70.75

Started the season hitting the ball really nicely, and was rewarded with second place in Houston, one of five top-20 finishes so far. Strokes-gained around-the-green figure for the year is .000, which is nice. Surely in too deep here but might make the weekend.

HUGHES, Mackenzie

• Course form: MC-42-8
• Scoring average: 70.30

Won a five-way play-off for the RSM Classic as a PGA Tour rookie and has kept his head above water since. Ended a run of missed cuts with second place at the Honda Classic when last seen (before a so-so start at Sawgrass), shooting a pair of 66s at the weekend to almost do the unthinkable from the cut line. Dedicated that performance to a friend who had recently passed away and certainly won't lack for perspective as the son of a Canadian nurse. Says he's been practicing plenty from his North Carolina base and while he has to show he can back-up that effort at PGA National, he was eighth here last year and defied a poor start to climb the leaderboard in 2018.

IM, Sungjae

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 72.00

Workhorse who finished first and third when last seen, completing his inevitable graduation from standout rookie to sophomore winner, via an impressive Presidents Cup debut. Easy to forget he only recently turned 22 and this Korean is right on the verge of becoming the leading Asian golfer in the men's game; indeed he's currently one place behind Hideki Matsuyama in the world rankings. That's all rather anecdotal: of more relevance is that he drives it straight, which works here, although he does nothing badly his best golf has generally been on this side of the USA. If there's a concern it may be that he has thrived on a busy schedule, but that can be viewed in two ways and it's at least taken on trust that he's barely left the range. Wouldn't dwell on last year's missed cut for longer than it takes to unleash his ponderous backswing.

JANEWATTANANOND, Jazz

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 73.00

One of the success stories of the Asian Tour over the last couple of years, dominating that circuit and adding yet more evidence that Cowen has something of a Midas touch. Started this year in excellent form but has been found out in deeper waters since, and the concern is he won't be up to bridging the gap. That said, he played really well in last year's PGA Championship and is only 24. Does have some experience here, but difficult to know what use rounds of 70 and 76 back in 2017 will prove to be, and he's not been playing like the world number 39 in minor events lately.

JOHNSON, Dustin

• Course form: MC-14
• Scoring average: 69.86

Another of the world's best players who simply would not be here but for the circumstances we find ourselves in. Rounds of 65 and 66 on his last visit are no more surprising than the 70 and 74 which undermined them, and Colonial just isn't the best place for a bang-on-song DJ. Of course, it wouldn't always matter but he's undoubtedly struggled for many months now, showing only flashes of his best since returning from surgery late last year. Driver half a shot worse per round than it was a couple of years ago, the dip in his iron-play is even more pronounced, and the putter - which he continues to experiment with - is not trustworthy. Lots to do to convince again, so if he does manage to contend over the first month of the restart, across courses not particularly suited to him, it'll be a good sign.

JOHNSON, Zach

• Course form: 14-26-30-9-1-4-1-3-73-19-17-63-MC-MC
• Scoring average: 68.79

Two-time major champion (take that, DJ), who from 2008 to 2013 performed extraordinarily in Texas, winning four of seven starts and placing in two others. Those exploits came across multiple courses - including this one - and with his finest hour having come in Georgia, where he's lived for a number of years, this part of the US appears to bring out his best. Trouble is, he didn't manage a single top 10 finish in 2019, has been poor throughout 2020, and his more recent Colonial exploits amount to very little.

JONES, Matt

• Course form: MC-13-MC-MC-45-MC-63-MC
• Scoring average: 70.55

Two-time Australian Open champion who is best known for picking Matt Kuchar's pocket in Houston back in 2014. Presumably, there wasn't much in it. Occasionally looks really good and does have three top-five finishes on the PGA Tour since last May, which is worth mentioning purely for the fact he managed zero in 2016, 2017 and 2018 combined. Has turned 40 since last seen, which must be of some note, and has bits and pieces here including one very low round (64) in 2010. Plays ridiculously fast but that's probably even less useful to you than his age.

KANG, Sung

• Course form: 37-MC-57-MC
• Scoring average: 71.75

Won a shootout for the Byron Nelson at Trinity Forest last year and has been based in Irving, Texas for a while. Two top-10 finishes in final three starts before the break, and when his putter fires he's a serious threat; it's just quite hard to predict when it will. Ten rounds here without breaking 68 but isn't the sort of player you feel comfortable drawing a line through.

KIM, Si Woo

• Course form: MC-MC-66-MC
• Scoring average: 71.40

One of the sport's real enigmas, the youngest ever to win the PLAYERS Championship but winless in three years since, and yet capable of popping up and contending. That's what he did back at the scene of his first win last August, and it's what he was threatening to do at the scene of his second win when shooting 65 at Sawgrass when last seen. By that logic, MC-MC-66-MC suggests he'll quickly resume abysmal golf here at Colonial, before perhaps contending at Hilton Head where he somehow lost a play-off to Satoshi Kodaira a couple of years ago. Not yet 25, and might that Sawgrass round have been in some way inspired by Sungjae Im's Honda Classic win? Never draw a line through him, anyway, with hopes high that Claude Harmon will get him back on track.

KIRK, Chris

• Course form: MC-16-5-35-14-1-15-67-11
• Scoring average: 69.11

Spent the first part of his career on the brink of achieving some really significant things, but instead managing wins here and there and an admittedly ballsy Presidents Cup appearance. More recently, has been in the news for taking a leave of absence due to issues with depression and alcohol abuse, and only returned following six months away last November. Perhaps not surprising that he's only made one cut, but this is the scene of one of his four PGA Tour wins and he might be better prepared now. Keep an eye out, anyway, as there's also significance in Harbour Town, where he signed off before that time away, and there's no doubting his ability. Still trying to get my head round the fact that someone at the PGA Tour felt 'A sobering return for Chris Kirk' was an appropriate headline ahead of his Mayakoba spin.

KISNER, Kevin

• Course form: MC-5-10-1-52-MC
• Scoring average: 68.80

Straight-talking former Colonial champion who is ballsy and predictable: his best form almost always comes on short courses where he can just get the ball in play and work from there. Fourth in the Sony Open when slow, rain-softened greens found him out and while quiet since, this run of events is ideal for him as he's also gone close at Harbour Town and played well last year at River Highlands. Looks to have been staying sharp, albeit with a not unpredictable lack of respect towards regulations designed to keep us all safe. No surprise at all if he returns to his best.

KIZZIRE, Patton

• Course form: MC-63-64-MC
• Scoring average: 72.00

Won twice in four starts from the end of 2017 to the beginning of 2018, but not that surprising he's failed to really build on that given his propensity to drive a ball wildly off-target. Without a single top-40 finish this season, without a proper top-10 since that latest victory more than two years ago, and without any good form here. Swerve.

KNOX, Russell

• Course form: 21-24-20-8
• Scoring average: 68.69

Another who should relish this return sequence, having won at River Highlands and gone well both here and at Harbour Town. In fact, Colonial might be the best of the lot for him given that he's never been outside the top 25 in four visits, and a scoring average of 68.69 is right up there with the best in the field. Concern would be the way he was playing when last seen, as he hadn't broken 70 in eight rounds and hadn't made a cut since early February. That was all down to poor putting, and on balance that's probably going to have been easier to fix than other issues might have been during this quiet period. Don't be surprised if he's ready to bounce back.

KOEPKA, Brooks

• Course form: 2
• Scoring average: 65.75

Second to Rose here in 2018 on what was his third start back after a break and went on to collect his second US Open title a few weeks later. That was his sole start at Colonial and a pair of 63s mean he has an absurd, sub-66 scoring average, one which suggests he can blast his way around here for all its traditional features and propensity to unearth a less explosive champion. Still, no denying he's been terribly out of sorts since a knee injury forced him to skip the Presidents Cup, and it was alarming to hear him admit to the full extent of it back in February. "It was a lot worse than we let on," he confessed. "I'm nowhere near 100 percent, I don’t know if my knee will ever be 100 percent." We'll learn plenty over the coming weeks as he doubtless works backwards from the PGA Championship and his bid for three in a row.

KOKRAK, Jason

• Course form: 18-MC-55-MC-32
• Scoring average: 70.75

Huge hitter who was also the sixth-ranked iron player on the PGA Tour last year, only for short-game malfunctions to keep him out of the winner's enclosure. Those issues persist, and his approach work hasn't been anywhere near as good, hence he's made very little noise so far in 2020. One of those who is plainly good enough to win but who has tested the patience of many beyond breaking point. And this event, one in which good putting really is necessary, doesn't look like an ideal target.

KUCHAR, Matt

• Course form: 36-9-27-56-16-26-2-MC-6-12-32
• Scoring average: 68.69

Has proven extremely good at social-distancing from his debts, thus completing a Harvey Dent-like turnaround in the knowing eyes of the public. And he could put a dent in those debts here, because Colonial is precisely the sort of track on which he's most effective. It ties in directly with El Camaleon (winner), Waialae (winner), and Harbour Town (winner), where he'll head as a former champion and bonafide course specialist next week, so he's definite shortlist material having been runner-up here before. This new schedule presents a chance to jump into Ryder Cup places from 10th place currently.

LANDRY, Andrew

• Course form: MC-MC
• Scoring average: 73.25

Two-time PGA Tour winner who first showed how tough he can be at the 2016 US Open, when a new name to many. Hasn't exactly been a model of consistency but his strong driving has opened up a couple of real chances and he's taken them, first close to home in the Texas Open and then at the CareerBuilder/Desert Classic, where he'd previous lost a play-off. Tougher courses undoubtedly suit best and he's shot 77 on both visits here, so the advice is to watch for promising signs with a view to looking again at Harbour Town, a course he does like.

LANGER, Bernhard

• Course form: 6-MC-2
• Scoring average: 68.10

Again, I really don't know as he should be in this field when places are tight, and there are players trying to put careers back together who are forced to hope for a late withdrawal and so on. Course form figures of 6-MC-2 are strong albeit obviously dated and while he remains the standard-setter on the Champions Tour, he's not likely to threaten here.

LASHLEY, Nate

• Course form: 69
• Scoring average: 72.00

David: What’s the weather like up there?
Oggy: Oh I’ve heard that before.
David: They must have put you in a grow bag when you were little did they?
Oggy: That’s an old one.
David: Let’s grow ourselves a big lanky goggle-eyed freak of a son.
Oggy: Alright calm down mate, there’s no need to get offensive.
David: No no, I was joining in-
Oggy: I didn’t call you fatty as soon as I saw you.
David: No I was joining in with-
Oggy: Just don’t have a go at the eyes, cos that is a stigmatism I’ve had from the age of five, so that’s what make them a bit bulbous, so don’t just... I didn’t call you the whale-man or like blubber-man.
David: Yeah but I don’t go round calling myself the Mongboy.
Oggy: Well I don’t either, I call myself the Oggmonster.
David: I’m not gonna call you the Oggmonster.
Oggy: Well that’s my name-
David: No it’s not, what’s your real name?
Oggy: Nate.
David: It’s a good name.
Oggy: Is it?
David: Yes. I’ll call you Nate.
Oggy: I didn’t call you fatty, so-
David: What is, what’s the matter with him?

LEE, Danny

• Course form: 46-38-10-22-6-14-48
• Scoring average: 68.93

One-time teen prodigy who, at 29, is still trying to reach the heights expected of him. Certainly, one PGA Tour win (to go with a European Tour win) would've been the low-end of ambitions right from when he became the youngest ever winner of the US Amateur, a record taken from him by Ben An a year later. There are some clues it's all coming together, albeit slowly, with his long-game as good as it's ever been on a consistent basis, and occasionally throwing up something spectacular. Needs the rest to come round but having made all seven cuts here, and finished fifth on his last completed start back in March, he's an interesting outsider.

LEE, K.H.

• Course form: 64
• Scoring average: 71.50

Can look good on his day and produced several quality tee-to-green displays last year, most notably when contending at the Honda Classic. This time around it's been more about capitalising on occasional hot weeks with the putter, such as when fifth in the RSM Classic and 12th at Riviera. Clearly, it's been difficult to put all the pieces together and his iron play in general isn't where he needs it to be. Does hit his share of fairways, which helps here, and could better last year's debut when finishing a lowly 64th.

LEHMAN, Tom

• Course form: MC-MC this decade
• Scoring average: 69.63 since 1996 *shrugs*

See: Browne, Olin; Clearwater, Keith; Frost, David.

LEISHMAN, Marc

• Course form: 44-57-46-21-27-13-34
• Scoring average: 69.61

Back to his best in 2020, first stealing the limelight from Rahm and Rory to win at Torrey Pines, and then when second in the Arnold Palmer Invitational - an event he's won before. Kept up the good work with an opening 67 at Sawgrass and is seven-from-seven here, often lurking close to the lead without ever really contending. Would be an obvious player but for concerns that the break has hurt him more than most. Plus, he's understandably apprehensive given health issues his wife has faced; would be forgiven for not quite having his head in the game.

LEWIS, Tom

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Less than two years since he was chipping away on the Challenge Tour before winning in England and then collecting a second Portugal Masters title soon after, thus returning to the level at which he belongs. Opened up his options by winning the Korn Ferry Tour Championship last September and while form has been in-and-out since, he's added four more top-10 finishes. Concern is he's yet to translate this form to the PGA Tour and dropped down the field alarmingly after an opening 66 at the Honda. That round was Lewis at his best as he fired approach after approach right at the flag; when he's on, he's of the highest class. Still has some underlying short-game issues and not sure this will bring out his best given that he loves to unleash off the tee.

LONG, Adam

• Course form: 19
• Scoring average: 69.50

Headline writer's dream when he won the CareerBuilder Challenge or the Desert Classic or the Bob Hope last year, defying massive odds (you know, longshot) to see off event specialists Phil Mickelson and Adam Hadwin. Many would've expected him to disappear completely when he followed that with five missed cuts, but over the last 12 months he's started to produce some really solid golf. Couple of top-10 finishes, including Mayakoba Classic, are the highlights but he was also 19th here and every now and then he turns up and flushes his way through a tournament. That sort of player is always to be afforded some respect at what will again be LONG ODDS HA!

LOWRY, Shane

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Last year's Open hero has just one top-10 finish in 15 subsequent starts, and that came on the Asian Tour. However, he's spent much of the intervening 10 or so months right on the edge of things, with eight finishes of between 11th and 30th, and on balance should be pleased with how he's adapted to life as a major champion. Mission is clear - make the Ryder Cup side - and it's possible he'll prove to be at an advantage given there have been fewer events, and that he will remain Open champion if it does take place on schedule. Definitely at his best under tougher conditions than these and makes Colonial debut.

MCCARRON, Scott

• Course form: ...
• Scoring average: ?

I know what you're thinking. Past champion, right? NOPE. I think he's in the field because he won the Charles Schwab Cup last year, and, you know, this event is the Charles Schwab Challenge. Another waste of a spot.

MCCARTHY, Denny

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 71.50

Well-touted 27-year-old who is just relying too much on the putter. Granted, he is reliably among the best on the circuit in that department, but he's losing ground everywhere else and that's going to need to change. Has at least started to hit more greens in patches this season and if he can gain 10 shots on the greens - something he's done a couple of times - he'll cover a lot of the mishits.

MCCUMBER, Tyler

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

One of two 'Champions' Choice' players in the field, this son of former PGA Tour winner Mark will be looking to make the most of a surprise opportunity. Obviously. He's done reasonably well so far in his rookie season, but a best finish of tied for 20th in Puerto Rico leaves him with plenty to do. Gives it a real rip off the tee but short-game has been poor and there really isn't anything in the form book which gives him a realistic chance.

MCDOWELL, Graeme

• Course form: 29-73
• Scoring average: 71.50

Admirable former US Open winner who looked cooked before using the carrot of a home Open Championship to reignite his career last year. Two wins since, including earlier this season, have him back inside the world's top 50 and perhaps even looking towards a surprise Ryder Cup return, six years on from his last appearance. Will need to get that putter firing - he ranked fourth last season but hasn't been so good this - and if he does so, clearly has it in him to pop up on the right course. Showed that with a gritty fourth place in a rainy Sony Open at the start of the year, and this similarly short, flat, par 70 is similarly suitable. Providing he's not spent the last two months on the beerskis of course. Yeah, he drinks.

MCILROY, Rory

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

What are you doing here? And not in a bad way, they're happy to see him. But let us be clear: Rory McIlroy is among those who simply would not have been playing in the event but for these extraordinary circumstances. I'm not sure that diminishes his chance at all, but early shows of betting reveal little or no allowance has been made for the prospect that he's caught cold here. I wouldn't for a second expect his place at the top of the game to have been put under threat by a couple of months off; nor do I believe he returns on courses which make the transition from range to PGA Tour as smooth as it might have been at, say, Quail Hollow. This is a roundabout way of saying he remains the best player in the world, by quite a margin now, and could well rock up and win given he's gone well after a break. It's just not a time to be speculating with anything more expensive than a sentence. River Highlands works better.

MCNEALY, Maverick

• Course form: 42
• Scoring average: 69.00

Big, big talent, cut in the modern mould, and now benefiting from the experience and insight of Butch Harmon as well as his girlfriend, LPGA Tour player Danielle Kang. That combination has clearly helped this formerly top-class amateur find his feet as a professional, with a run of 11 cuts made only ended at Bay Hill last time. Improvement has been led by the putter but expect his power-packed long-game to show the benefits of Harmon's watchful eye in the months, and indeed years, to come.

MERRITT, Troy

• Course form: 17
• Scoring average: 68.75

Prolific birdie-maker who occasionally makes the game look very easy, such as when flushing his way to a pair of PGA Tour wins. This course, on which he was 17th four years ago, is the right sort of platform for that kind of performance - even if they have been a little hard to pin down in the past. Posted a video from his Idaho base encouraging people to stay home during the pandemic, adding to suspicion that he's one of the good guys.

MICKELSON, Phil

• Course form: 22-MC-11-1-2-23-13-35-26-1-MC-29
• Scoring average: 69.00

Twice a course winner but stopped visiting regularly over the last ten years or so, presumably a mixture of the job having been done, the course not really playing to his strengths, and the schedule. Played quite well for 29th when last here three years ago, however, and a bit of match practice via The Match: Champions for Charity is no bad thing. With 50th birthday approaching and lots of poor form over the last year, he wouldn't be at the top of the shortlist - but removing him altogether is never easy. After all, he might've won twice this year. Also of note is the fact he's often packed things up for a couple of months prior to Christmas before returning to go close in California in January. Could surprise a few.

MITCHELL, Keith

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Mentioned in a February feature earmarking players who might improve now hitting the east coast, and duly delivered with fifth place in the Arnold Palmer before opening up with a round of 68 at Sawgrass. Definite positives for last year's Honda Classic winner and the main concern would be that he finds this place a little restricting. Still, a shoo-in for Top Keith, you'd think.

MOORE, Ryan

• Course form: 65-29-52-MC-MC-26-MC-67
• Scoring average: 70.58

Does things his own way and that's often meant prolonged breaks, which might be seen as a positive here. Third-round 82 in the Arnold Palmer raises concerns but he bounced back with a solid start at Sawgrass, and his form this year - light, as usual - is fairly solid. Similar remarks can be made about his Colonial record, where several good rounds haven't yet added up to one big week, but it is a good place for him if his approach work returns to 2019 levels. Knows how to win, and these low-scoring, short courses are best.

MORIKAWA, Collin

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Gobsmacking start to life as a pro includes victory in Reno, where a combination of quality relative to opponent and comfort levels among surroundings led to what was a low-key but still significant breakthrough. Since then, he's kept climbing the ladder even as the rungs appear further apart; now ensconced within the world's top 50 he's very much here to stay. Most impressive so far has been his iron play, and while Colonial is an old-boys' course, this 23-year-old is a ball-striking metronome who should find the challenge to his liking. Wise enough, and a contender if sharp enough, as he seeks to extend cuts-made streak to a ridiculous 21/21 at this level.

MUNOZ, Sebastian

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Another of this season's first-time winners, delaying Sungjae Im's coronation with an impressive victory in the Sanderson Farms having taken inspiration from Joaquin Niemann a few days earlier at the Greenbrier. Though strong through the bag that week, it was a step up with the putter which made the difference - strikingly so at the death - and it's the putter which has underpinned his success. Some nice efforts since, notably in good company in Mexico, and eighth in the Maridoe gives us something tangible. Went to college in Texas and a case can be made ahead of his debut here.

NA, Kevin

• Course form: 17-7-59-9-22-40-13-MC-10-42-4-1
• Scoring average: 68.37

Prolific winner these days, adding his name to the long list of players who - SHOCK! - are capable of changing, of improving, of becoming something else. You know, those ones you want to hit someone on the head with when they tell you Tony Finau is this or so-and-so is that; that Sergio Garcia definitely won't win a major until he definitely does win a major. Send 'em to Kevin, he of the straight-jacket, he of the yips, he of the hack through a Texan forest. Four-time PGA Tour winner, lads. He's good. And he won this year not primarily because of a hot putter, but because of a truly elite display of approach play. On courses like Colonial, where, absurdly, three of his last eight rounds have been 62 *or better*, he's dangerous. Really dangerous.

NESMITH, Matthew

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Rookie PGA Tour member who will have eyes on the RBC Heritage, as he's from South Carolina, went to the University of South Carolina, and proposed to his wife on the 18th green at Harbour Town a couple of years ago. Combine that with a game which is steady and straight, and he'll be on the radar for next week's event at a big price having shown plenty of promise earlier in the campaign. Colonial should also suit a tidy player who probably won't be a world-beater, but does have a solid career in front of him.

NIEMANN, Joaquin

• Course form: 8-31
• Scoring average: 69.00

Joined Seve Ballesteros and Rory McIlroy to make a group of just three international players to have won on the PGA Tour before turning 21, when landing the Greenbrier at the start of the season. That had been coming - he'd started to warm the putter up having demonstrated a quality long-game ever since earning his card a year earlier - and earned him a crack at the Presidents Cup. It's all happening fast for the kid from Santiago, and he's entitled to be less reliable than we'd perhaps like him to be. Nevertheless, he's been very disappointing since fifth place in the Tournament of Champions, a run of three missed cuts likely to have been extended to four had the PLAYERS been completed. Break may have done him good, however, and form figures of 8-31 are encouraging.

NOREN, Alex

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Hard-working Swede who enjoyed a wonderful year or two which culminated in that across-the-green putt to rubber-stamp Ryder Cup victory for Europe. Like many before him, he's suffered a little for leaving the comforting surrounds of the European Tour, on which he's been prolific, in search of better on the PGA Tour, where he came closest when second at Torrey Pines. Doubtless he's been trying to find the answers but it's a long time since he produced the sort of ball-striking display which tends to be required to win at this level.

NORLANDER, Henrik

• Course form: 73
• Scoring average: 71.25

Good college golfer who hits plenty of fairways and has put that to use on suitable courses, such as Sea Island where he's lost a play-off and also been fifth before. Won his second Korn Ferry Tour title last year and looked set to kick on when starting 2020 with a top-10 finish at the Sony, but quiet since. Colonial is probably a good course for him.

OGLETREE, Andy

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

One of three notable people from Little Rock, Mississippi, according to Wikipedia. Ranked 12th in the world of amateurs.

OOSTHUIZEN, Louis

• Course form: 19-38-WD-MC-5
• Scoring average: 69.47

A case study in fine margins. The way the cards have fallen, he's considered by many to be a curious underachiever, despite of course being a major champion. The theory goes that when your swing looks that good, you should win more; it's not totally without merit, for all that the aesthetics of the swing are seldom anywhere near the primary indicators of success. I suppose the thing is he's shown us what he can do when he's on it, when winning The Open in 2010, and to have not picked up any kind of silverware in the US is not good. And now for the flip-side: he was awfully unlucky not to win The Masters, has also lost a play-off for another Open Championship, finished second in the PGA Championship, and also defied a slow start to just miss out on a US Open. On none of these occasions did he blow it, for all that he lost a Masters play-off to a par, and it only takes one putt to drop for him to be in an even more exclusive club of multiple major champions. To complete the circle, there is no denying that he can be frustrating, not least because of the various fitness issues he's had - including the neck injury which saw him withdraw at Sawgrass last time. Will the PGA Tour hotel allow him to bring his own mattress?

ORTIZ, Carlos

• Course form: 58-MC
• Scoring average: 70.83

Keen not to be upstaged by younger brother Alvaro, who played so well in the Masters last year, the boy Carlos has upped his game. He's no doubt taken a little inspiration from Munoz and Niemann, his closest friends on the circuit, and those three top-five finishes at the start of the season represent career-best form at this level. He's been a little quieter since, a reflection of improved fields, but 16th in the WGC-Mexico - on home soil, of course - was excellent. Went to college in Texas with Munoz, but no form here to speak of.

PALMER, Ryan

• Course form: MC-69-56-70-15-34-MC-31-5-14-5-MC-3-70-MC-6
• Scoring average: 69.71

Colonial member who has a solid record in his home state overall, with 12 top-10 finishes from 63 starts, a strike-rate which is ever so slightly better than it is elsewhere. Still, has never managed to get over the line in front in Texas, and he's an infrequent winner despite last year's pairs victory alongside Jon Rahm. Record here has improved over the years and is now excellent: he's hit the frame on four of his last eight starts. Those factors combined with a sprinkling of modest-but-competitive form of late will ensure he at the very least makes many punters think twice.

PAN, CT

• Course form: MC-20-3
• Scoring average: 69.30

Made a stand by withdrawing prior to the PLAYERS Championship due to concerns over safety, and it'll be interesting to see whether the PGA Tour have done enough to reassure him here. Won the RBC Heritage last year and went on to finish third here before a forgettable Presidents Cup debut. These are the right courses for one of the straightest hitters around, but his game was shot to pieces when last we saw him.

PEREZ, Pat

• Course form: 56-WD-44-4-6-10-62-63-MC-5-MC-42-WD
• Scoring average: 69.55

Former wild man of the Tour has plenty of low rounds here, and it was encouraging to see him play better over the opening lap at Sawgrass. However, before that he'd shot 77-76 and those two top-10 finishes late last year have been forgotten. Voiced some concerns to the New York Post in terms of the protocols detailed by the PGA Tour.

PEREZ, Victor

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Dundee-dwelling Frenchman who put a degree of local knowledge to use (his girlfriend goes to St Andrews University) when landing the Dunhill Links late last year. Really built on that success since, showing himself to be a wonderful ball-striker, and while driving it poorly in Mexico when last seen it's telling that he ranked third in strokes-gained approach. Indeed, there's a case to be made for him being one of the finest iron players in the sport right now and with JP Fitzgerald on the bag, all roads led to the Ryder Cup. It will be a shame if he's unable to pick up where he left off and, this year or next, represent Padraig Harrington's Team Europe. This is his first PGA Tour start outside of that WGC in the spring; went to college in New Mexico.

PIERCY, Scott

• Course form: DQ-MC-26-43-67-7-MC-19
• Scoring average: 70.00

I could come up with something witty, and biting, like... at least the absence of spectators will save him from having to yell 'Far Right!' when he misses one off the tee. But I won't. Because professionalism is... and that is what I want.

POSTON, J.T.

• Course form: 41-20-MC
• Scoring average: 70.10

Quiet improver throughout 2019, culminating in victory at the Wyndham Championship on the sort of classical course he probably prefers. Went bogey-free there - the first player to do so in victory since 1974, although Piercy had done it in defeat earlier in the year. Shame. Anyway, Poston is neat and tidy at his best, although the outstanding ball-striking which powered his Sedgefield win has been absent since. Form here is solid but unspectacular.

POULTER, Ian

• Course form: 15-8-76-5-MC-70
• Scoring average: 70.00

The real Postman (Poston has the same nickname), which begs the question: why did he dress up as a letterbox, rather than... a postman... when Europe won the Ryder Cup in 2018? Speaking of which, the Ryder Cup will be at the forefront of his mind with the next edition surely his last chance to play on US soil (he'd make a fine captain for the next away trip, wouldn't he?). Has to be considered as he was playing nicely before the break, his last win came in Texas, and he has two top-10s plus a debut 15th in five tries here. Of definite interest.

PUTNAM, Andrew

• Course form: 20-3
• Scoring average: 68.25

One of those who really kicked on after winning an opposite event in 2018, finishing fourth in a WGC and then second in the Sony Open over the following weeks and months. Stalled since, and hopes now pinned on a return to Colonial sparking improvement. He was 20th here on debut and third a year ago, doing everything well, and his accuracy-plus-putting blend is, as mentioned, the right sort of formula.

RAHM, Jon

• Course form: 2-5-MC
• Scoring average: 68.70

Hard to put context on his rise to golfing superstardom, except to say that he's not yet hit the fourth anniversary of his first professional tournament and yet is the world number two. He's won nine titles, 10 if you include the Zurich Classic, and that's in fewer than a hundred starts. This is not normal, and yet it sort of feels it; more so than just about anyone I can remember, he's just slotted himself in at the top there without any real fuss. No dips in form, at least not significant ones, and no problems rising to new challenges. Hyper-criticism might lead you to conclude that he's 'only' won two full-field PGA Tour events and that he's mopped up by winning the same three tournaments in Europe, each more than once. Meh. He's just a phenomenal talent and there's no limit to what he can achieve. He likes Colonial, too (2-5-MC), and since last year's renewal he's managed 13 top-10 finishes in 18 events, winning three. Arguably the sport's most reliable player.

REAVIE, Chez

• Course form: 64-71-5-MC-11-MC-48-MC-MC
• Scoring average: 70.21

Capped a gradual return to his best with victory in the Travelers last year, winning on the back of an excellent third place at the US Open. Quite why he's since decided to switch to PXG equipment is a mystery to me but he didn't last long, departing in late February. Perhaps he'll return to last summer's form with that behind him and he'd be on the radar if so, having once opened with a round of 62 here. At his best, undoubtedly up there with the best old-school ball-strikers around and few hit more fairways.

REDMAN, Doc

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Straight-hitting former US Amateur who earned his card thanks to second place in last year's Rocket Mortgage Classic. Already, he's demonstrated that he has the tee-to-green quality to thrive at this level - a sort of Corey Conners lite, i.e. slightly less powerful - and when last seen the putter was heating up. Of definite potential for all that his sign-off form figures, and subsequent effort in the Maridoe, suggest his game isn't in ideal shape for this.

REED, Patrick

• Course form: 46-33-15
• Scoring average: 69.08

Whether he courts it or not, has been followed around by some form of controversy for a long time now, but nothing as significant as what happened in the Bahamas late last year. ICYMI, he cheated a bit, and was called out by a few professionals - Cameron Smith perhaps the most notable. That gave the Presidents Cup added oomph and Reed did there what he does in team golf events these days: that is, he thrived when he was out on his own. Not surprisingly, he has won again since and one way or another he and his, ahem, team, have managed to turn villainy into weaponry. Hasn't played here since 2016 but his record over those three starts was progressive and is encouraging. Clearly a winner having done so in seven of the last eight years, although only one of those has been two-win.

RODGERS, Patrick

• Course form: MC-MC-MC
• Scoring average: 72.29

Arguably the biggest underachiever on the circuit, or else the player with the greatest potential to burst out from his current shell and become what he was meant to be. Remember, when at Stanford he was right up there with Alabama's Justin Thomas and he looked just as good a prospect when both embarked on their professional careers. Hasn't worked out for Rodgers just yet but he has lost a play-off and been second to Bryson DeChambeau, and there were signs in the spring that the pieces were falling into place. Given that he's become an excellent, reliable putter having arrived on the circuit as a big-hitting ball-striker, there is hope yet.

ROSE, Justin

• Course form: 14-45-34-71-1-58
• Scoring average: 68.71

Rare struggle over the last 12 months. Hey Rosey, I think I know just what the feeling is. We the people all reckoned the move from Taylor Made to Honma was the issue, and now that he's parted ways with the Japanese manufacturer there will be those expecting - rather than hoping for - a swift return to form. It's certainly possible, and he was at the top of the sport when winning here a couple of years ago, so there's a case to be made that he's overpriced. My worry is he might have lost something in the search, and there's no doubt he's also enjoyed a fruitful few seasons with the putter, a magic touch which may be hard to rediscover. Not writing him off but do suspect he's done topping the world.

RYDER, Sam

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Occasionally looks good and has five top-five finishes at this level. Back in 2018, ranked second only to Henrik Stenson in greens hit - and that's no small achievement for his rookie campaign. Regressed since and makes his debut here. No relation to the brains behind the PAW Patrol or Samuel Ryder of Ryder Cup fame.

SABBATINI, Rory

• Course form: 70-WD-MC-5-31-6-64-1-MC-34-69-16-47-MC-MC-10-MC-20-6
• Scoring average: 69.71

Absolutely *livid* that the Olympic Games are not going ahead as scheduled. Rumour has it he'd been chosen to carry the flag of Slovakia for the opening ceremony, but he'll be 45 next summer and there's a risk the likes of Erik van Rooyen and Christiaan Bezuidenhout have moved past him in the pecking order. Do pekla!

SCHAUFFELE, Xander

• Course form: 48-MC-MC
• Scoring average: 71.25

Much like Matt Fitzpatrick on the European Tour, has gone from prolific collector of titles to habitual runner-up over the last year or so, without doing all that much wrong in the main. Has been especially reliable and dangerous in no-cut, limited fields, though not sure there's a reason behind that and at some stage soon enough he'll add to his breakthrough Greenbrier win, so far the only one with a cut. 48-MC-MC is a poor return at Colonial though did start with four birdies in a row in 2018 and his prowess off the tee should mean he's dangerous anywhere. Signed off in the spring with a string of solid efforts, catching the eye with his ball-striking in Mexico, and if returning in similar form will be one to keep a very close eye on all summer. PGA champion? Maybe.

SCHEFFLER, Scottie

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Spoiler alert: you'll see young Scottie mentioned a lot this week. Why? Well, largely because he's been playing well in a couple of Texas-based, stacked events played over 54 holes. As form guides go (1-2), there haven't been many if any better during the blackout. Throw in the fact that this standout Korn Ferry Tour graduate is from Dallas, has three top-fives and a further four top-30s in his rookie season already, and was good enough to threaten the leaders on the PGA Tour as far back as 2014, and the case is right there in front of you. Therein lies the problem, although anyone telling you they can confidently place a value on his relative sharpness is a liar. Personally, I think he's dramatically underpriced at less than half the odds he started the PLAYERS. But I can't be certain.

SCHENK, Adam

• Course form: MC-MC
• Scoring average: 74.00

Quietly solid operator who drives the ball well, hits his share of greens, putts nicely... but does nothing to a spectacular standard. It's that which has left him without a top-five finish on the PGA Tour so far, his best finish sixth place in Illinois. That's the state in which he won at a lower level and this Indiana native might do better in that neck of the woods than he has here, with MC-MC Colonial form suggesting we shouldn't expect a great deal.

SENDEN, John

• Course form: 21-9-38-45-MC-MC-18-56-8-37-MC-5-MC-MC-77
• Scoring average: 69.68

One-time flusher whose career has taken a back-seat with health issues in the family the priority. Things are looking up and he's been able to return to professional golf, only to find he's been left behind somewhat. Without a top-40 finish in the US in almost two years and will rely on stacks of course experience if he's to so much as make the weekend. Turns 50 next year and, should he wish to, could be the sort to make merry on the Champions Tour.

SHELTON, Robby

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Had a massive reputation in college golf circles and finished third on the PGA Tour as an amateur, so it was good to see him put things together and win twice on the Korn Ferry Tour last year. Both came in the south east and he's definitely one to have on the radar in events such as this one. Sixth in the Mayakoba and 11th in the Honda tie in nicely and while he needs to drive it better, he remains a player of huge potential.

SIMPSON, Webb

• Course form: MC-MC-3-5-MC
• Scoring average: 68.86

You know we were talking earlier about Webb Simpson? James Frederick Webb Simpson, born 1985, former winner of the PLAYERS Championship. Yeah? He's so admirable, isn't he? Sticking around, at the top of the sport, major championship safely tucked away, managing to snap Tony Finau's brittle heart in two and somehow avoid becoming the villain of the story. Admirable, especially as he does it all despite giving away ground off the tee. Once that's dispensed with, he's just about as effective as anyone, and he's been as good as ever over the last 12 months. Record here is feast or famine - MC-MC-3-5-MC - although the missed cuts haven't been disastrous. This is a rare opportunity to take on the very best on what you'd call his type of turf, and it's one he could well take. Ranks first in birdie average and par-four performance and, on paper, is among the strongest candidates you'll find.

SMITH, Cameron

• Course form: MC-MC
• Scoring average: 74.50

Mugged Brendan Steele to win his first solo PGA Tour title in January, capturing the Sony Open at a time when various Presidents Cup players were making hay. Most disappointing since and while 22nd in Mexico was a step in the right direction, he failed to build on it at Sawgrass. Hasn't done anything here as yet but would respect him if in the mix; looked to come of age in Australia last December and has enough about him to take more chances than he wastes.

SPIETH, Jordan

• Course form: 7-14-2-1-2-32-8
• Scoring average: 67.79

Where to begin. Right. So. Basically, came out and was ridiculously good, winning three majors in no time and nearly winning a couple more - including that famous 2016 meltdown at Augusta. Victory at Birkdale in 2017 was just sensational to watch and, with the exception of that bizarre bunch who don't seem to like him, that sort of performance is much missed. You probably know all this. More recently, he's been on a significant downturn, although some may be surprised to learn he missed three cuts throughout all of 2019, and he's missed one in five this year. Obviously, fact we're talking about cuts rather than trophies says it all and he has serious ball-striking issues to address. That in itself underlines how good his ball-striking once was - contrary to popular opinion, you cannot enjoy the success he did without being good at hitting a golf ball - and the hope is he's found something during the break. Has won two of the three events which help restart the season and does absolutely love Colonial, where he's also twice been runner-up. That said, last seen shooting 75 at Sawgrass. Come back please.

STEELE, Brendan

• Course form: MC-MC-MC
• Scoring average: 73.83

Blew a fine chance to win the Sony Open in January, albeit possibly hurt by being made to wait an age over his approach to the final hole. Still, that was a welcome return to final-group pressure after a quiet couple of years, and he was back in the mix when fourth at the Honda Classic. These efforts are surrounded by missed cuts so he's quite hard to get a handle on. Scoring average of almost 74 helps clear things up.

STRAKA, Sepp

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Quality ball-striker from Austria (although holds dual citizenship), who has flushed his way to a string of excellent finishes over the last 12 months. Goes missing in-between hence glut of missed cuts, but tends to stick around when he does make the weekend and that's a nice quality to have. Debuts here but fourth on last visit to Texas, albeit Houston probably suits better. Two first-round leads in his 39-event career at this level so far.

STREELMAN, Kevin

• Course form: 41-MC-10-MC-MC-58-MC-18-76-31
• Scoring average: 70.16

Regular visitor here but yet to break 66 in 32 rounds, and has a best finish of 10th. Last seen finishing 10th in the Scottsdale Open, when sent off second-favourite, and much like Steele has two top-fives on the PGA Tour this season among a whole load of nothing. That's him, really, and nobody could confidently rule out another big performance over the coming weeks on the short, tight tracks which reward his tee-to-green consistency. Streakiness personified with the putter.

STRICKER, Steve

• Course form: 76-MC-13-24-MC-1-38-27-47-7-32
• Scoring average: 69.40

Opened 63-63 to win this in 2009 and closed with 63 for seventh a couple of years ago. No doubt, his wedge-putt game is ideal for Colonial and he's made his last two PGA Tour cuts, enough to suggest he'll be another of those to make a modicum of appeal in DFS circles. Focus could be taken by Ryder Cup if that gets the go-ahead, although Stricker said recently he doesn't think it should without fans.

STUARD, Brian

• Course form: 22-MC-62-24-32-64
• Scoring average: 69.86

One of the circuit's most accurate players but it was an absurdly good week with the putter which saw him defy soft, long conditions at TPC Louisiana, making himself the final solo winner of the Zurich Classic. Otherwise it's generally been easy enough to predict when he'll pop up and finish eighth - Sony, Mexico, Heritage - and while solid here, Colonial wouldn't be one of those courses on which expectations should be high.

TAYLOR, Vaughn

• Course form: WD-17-52-MC-MC-MC-70-55-18-20-58
• Scoring average: 70.37

Shock winner at Pebble Beach a couple of years ago and has found a degree of consistency since. Still hits fairways and makes birdies but never worked out how to go seriously low here.

TEATER, Josh

• Course form: MC-16-57-7-38-17
• Scoring average: 69.45

So close to long-awaited PGA Tour win in Puerto Rico, where just denied by Viktor Hovland. That's the one real positive this year and the nature of his game is best summed up by the fact he's 26th in both fairways and greens, but is losing substantial ground in strokes-gained ball-striking. Fear his chance has gone but has an excellent record here at least - has ended nine of his last 12 Colonial rounds inside the top 25.

THOMAS, Justin

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Rivals Rory McIlroy as the most likeable elite player in the sport, his reputation further enhanced by an excellent on-course commentary stint throughout The Match II: This Time It's Not Shit. Makes his debut here at Colonial and there's a reason it's not been on his list previously, namely that it's not the sort of course you can come and attack off the tee without at least a degree of pause. Not to say Thomas is anything like one-dimensional, but the monsters at the top of the game are able to milk their advantage when they can hit driver as hard as they like, so the field are brought closer to them here. Still, were the course to play soft or in any way easier than usual, a repeat of his 59-led thumping at the Sony Open (similar course, remember) is possible and he's certainly a prolific winner. All-or-nothing so far in 2020 with form figures of 1-MC-3-MC-6.

TODD, Brendon

• Course form: MC-5-43-MC
• Scoring average: 70.31

Won back-to-back titles to complete one of golf's greatest comeback stories last year, in the process compelling some very sensible people to lose their minds and demand a Presidents Cup call. Turns out he's not actually one of the best dozen, or two dozen, or three dozen US golfers but now that things have settled down he is at the very least entitled to great respect and admiration. First win came in Texas, has form here, is among the straightest drivers in the field, and a hat-trick of titles this season isn't to be ruled out. Heck, if he manages it in this company I might even join calls for him to play for the USA in the Ryder Cup. I'm sure Padraig wouldn't mind.

TWAY, Kevin

• Course form: MC-18-5-19
• Scoring average: 69.43

Bob's son who made a name for himself in winning the Safeway Open in 2018. Very quiet this season, however, and driver has gone to pieces. Good course record the sole positive.

UIHLEIN, Peter

• Course form: MC-13
• Scoring average: 71.67

Player of real pedigree who has won at a low level but still tends to disappoint at this one. Seldom does he produce the sort of tee-to-green numbers which tend to be needed on the PGA Tour and yet is dangerous when he does. Went 5-13 across two Texas events last year, latterly this one, but form in 2020 amounts to very little.

VAN ROOYEN, Erik

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

OMG have you SEEN his TROUSERS? Yes, yes is the answer. We've all seen them now. They're tight at the ankle and hell hath not yet frozen over. Can we move on please? OMG have you SEEN him PLAY GUITAR? You really should, if you haven't. And, a note to the talented folks at the European Tour content department: when a player reveals that he excels on a six-string electric guitar, and you decide to use that as the basis of a hilario players' band, please, please, PLEASE put him on... guitar. Not bass guitar. If you're not paying attention, you're not going to enjoy it. (Progressive, likeable South African who has got amongst it at a WGC and a major now; remains with scope to improve further, too)

VARNER, Harold

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 74.00

Generally plays the game like we all like to think we would in his shoes: with a smile, without care, and as though it's some kind of dream that could end any second. Don't take that to mean he isn't serious about his golf though and while yet to win at this level, he threatened during last year's FedEx Cup Playoffs. Had he done it, he'd have been the first black American man since Tiger Woods emerged in 1996 to win on the PGA Tour. It's been almost a quarter of a century, and the Tiger effect has not, it seemed, covered anywhere near the ground we might have hoped for. On a related note, Varner spoke really well last week if you didn't see it. In a purely sporting sense, he's better than his results and that's supported by the numbers.

VEGAS, JHONATTAN

• Course form: 53-MC-MC-73-31
• Scoring average: 71.38

Gentle giant who is brilliant off the tee and has shown real guts over the years. Solid despite putting troubles so far in 2020 and can see him picking up more titles, albeit likely not in this company, when he does make a few. Went to college in Texas but form here is patchy at best, with a full 18 strokes between his lowest (64) and highest (82) scores.

WALKER, Jimmy

• Course form: 56-10-65-29-20-19
• Scoring average: 69.50

Major champion in 2016, albeit possibly the most forgettable major in history, and hasn't won again since. Has his excuses mind you having contracted Lyme disease in 2017 and has started to catch the eye a little lately, especially at the Arnold Palmer. Two years now since he went on a run of 4-2-6 (and then 20th in this) but has made all six cuts here and, if he can keep it in play off the tee, could threaten.

WALLACE, Matt

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Looked on the verge of a breakthrough in the US at around this time last year, following a good Florida swing with third in the PGA Championship and 12th in the US Open. Not so good since but did take a step forward at Bay Hill.

WATNEY, Nick

• Course form: MC-MC-27-72-MC-53-MC-8
• Scoring average: 70.83

The world's most surprising hip-hop aficionado, and one-time major winner of the future. But since those five wins in six years from 2007 to 2012, nice-guy Nick has gradually slipped out of public consciousness which, in fairness, is where he always looked like he wanted to be. Had a great chance to win the PGA Championship in 2010 and played Presidents Cup golf a year later. Now, suddenly, he's 39. Thirty-nine! It's hard to fathom. Eighth here last year (led field T2G) was first meaningful Colonial form in eight visits, but he'll have to have left behind an opening 79 to sit last at the PLAYERS. He's had his day, sadly.

WATSON, Bubba

• Course form: MC-72
• Scoring average: 71.33

Now he's stopped using novelty golf balls he's a threat again, albeit the consistency which underpinned his very best form is now missing. Two very good, contending performances this year, and you can be sure he'll return to action with the Ryder Cup motivating him for as long as it remains on the schedule. Remember, he lost a play-off at Whistling Straits in 2010, earning a Ryder Cup debut in defeat, and he'll be as eager as anyone to get back into the side following a Paris nightmare. Unfortunately for Bubba, the epitome of a course-horse, Colonial and Harbour Town don't fit. River Highlands, however...

WERENSKI, Richy

• Course form: 74-MC
• Scoring average: 71.17

Former Big Break winner (no, not the snooker version) whose profile demonstrates that he's right in that gap between the PGA Tour and the Korn Ferry Tour. He's won on the latter, but not yet the former, where two of his closest calls have come in opposite fields. Started this season with a welcome runner-up finish and back to form in the Honda, and his accuracy is an asset here despite modest course return so far.

WILLETT, Danny

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Has been rewarded for hard work and introspection since the slump which followed his Masters win in 2016. Victories have followed in seriously good European Tour events and while seldom a threat on the PGA Tour, there have been flashes - such as when 18th in the Arnold Palmer. Driving accuracy and greens in regulation rankings are worrying - he's outside the top 200 in both - and remains hard to pin down, harder still to rely on. Best tactic probably to bet him blind in Europe and leave him alone in the US, for now at least.

WOLFF, Matt

• Course form: -
• Scoring average: -

Charmed us all when being even nicer and even less cool than Rickie Fowler in that TaylorMade event. Didn't fare too well thrown in among the big boys but fact he was there, setting aside whose equipment he uses, says plenty. Stunning winner of the 3M Open last summer in one of the most truly hilarious conclusions to a tournament you'll ever seen, and I've actually been impressed enough with what he's done since. Needs to get the driver wound up again and not really on the radar here.

WOODLAND, Gary

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 72.00

My golfing Coldplay, that is to say I spent years saying honestly, he's got all of the tools, just as my sister claims to have seen Chris Martin and co in some naff Leicester pub once upon a time. Then you watch them blossom a.k.a. win the US Open, and you smile the sort of smile the presenter of the BRIT awards has to smile when, surprise, Coldplay have won it again. And you begin to wonder, what was it that made me love them? In Woodland's case, I think it was that time he effortless hit an eight-iron through the back of the 17th green at the Greenbrier Classic from about 230 yards. Right there and then, I said on and on, from the moment I wake, to the moment I sleep, I'll be there by your side, just you try and stop me. Proud of you, Gary. Wait, he's a serious golfer and deserves a serious line: better at these shorter, technical courses than you might think. First visit since debut MC in 2012, though.

ZHANG, Xinjun

• Course form: MC
• Scoring average: 72.50

Still improving at 32 and has made a heck of a lot of birdies in his 55 rounds this season. Won in Texas on the Korn Ferry Tour but will have to better debut MC here.

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