The CJ Cup Byron Nelson

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The Buzz

The CJ Cup Byron Nelson tournament has struggled to attract marquee players in recent years, despite having a similar field to last year. The new venue at TPC Craig Ranch may be a factor, though they didn't catch a break with Scottie Scheffler missing due to the birth of his child and Will Zalatoris withdrawing for precautionary back reasons. Historically, the Byron Nelson had a unique niche as the PGA Tour's most financially successful charity event, raising $185 million for the Salesmanship Club charity from 1968-2017 when it was played at TPC Las Colinas. Fans loved the amenities and viewing areas, despite the course not being a gem like Colonial. From 1990-2006, Byron Nelson's involvement helped attract great fields before interest waned after his passing in 2007. The tournament moved to the newly built Trinity Forest in 2018-2019 hoping for a better course and to maintain its charitable success. However, poor scheduling, weather, and lack of amenities led to declining profits and attendance. After the 2020 cancellation, they moved to the current TPC Craig Ranch venue in 2021 which had better infrastructure and fan amenities.

Course Information

• TPC Craig Ranch, McKinney, Texas

• 7,414 yards, Par 71 (36-35)

TPC Craig Ranch opened in 2004, designed by Tom Weiskopf with PGA Tour input to host an event. The mature, tree-lined course features Rowlett Creek and 83 bunkers. Bent grass greens average 6,800 sq ft with slight undulation. In 2021-2022 it played as a par 72, but changed the 12th hole to a par 4 for 2023, making it a par 71 "bomber's delight" at 7,414 yards. Hitting fairways and greens is key, with scrambling and par breakers (birdies/eagles) also important stats. The three par 5s are reachable in two shots for eagle chances. Three par 4s (#3, #6, #14) could also yield birdies or eagles if tees are moved up, with risk/reward on the water-lined 14th. A new "Ranch 17" hole features large spectator stands around the par 3 17th, aiming to create an exciting atmosphere like the 16th at WM Phoenix Open, though marquee players are still lacking.

Key Stats

Based on data from the last three years at TPC Craig Ranch and our extensive GolfStats database, the most vital statistics for success are:

• Strokes Gained: Tee-to-Green

• Greens in Regulation

• Strokes Gained: Putting

• Par Breakers (Birdies/Eagles made)

The course has played as a scorable, low-scoring event favoring long hitters who can take advantage of the reachable par 5s and potential drivable par 4s to make birdies and eagles.

It’s a course most players like because they can produce a low score on it. Last year, the par 71 course played to a 68.91 average, making it the 50th hardest course on Tour. Eight other courses on Tour was easier, but of the 8, six were used in events that utilize multiple courses. The only two easier courses were El Cardonal at Diamante for the World Wide Technology and the Plantation Course, which held the season-opening Sentry. Last year’s winner, Jason Day, was 23 under par, making 26 birdies and just three bogeys.

💰️ Who to watch and wager on at the The CJ Cup Byron Nelson

Hopefully you took our advice last week on the Nick Taylor / Adam Hadwin pairing. Odds ended up being +220 to finish in the top 10. Just made it to 10th place with a birdie on the 17th hole. Phew.

Check out our picks for the CJ Cup Byron Nelson:

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