Playoffs? You want to talk about playoffs?
Indeed, I’d like to talk about playoffs — the FedExCup playoffs. As you likely already know, Billy Horschel claimed the Tour Championship Sunday and in doing so, the rising 27-year-old took home the FedExCup and its wonderful $10 million prize.
But the FedExCup playoffs were much more than the final event. In fact, there were a number of interesting things that happened during this four-week span we call the golf postseason.
Here’s a look at 5 things we learned during this year’s FedExCup that will undoubtedly change the way we look at things moving forward:
Billy Horschel is Ready For His Moment
Full of confidence and talent, Horschel finally put it all together for a remarkable run. In the last three weeks, he’s gone 38-under while turning in a runner-up finish (Deutsche Bank Championship) and two victories (the BMW Championship and Tour Championship). In fact, he was a shot away from potentially winning three times in the span. Horschel is here, folks. And it looks like he may stay awhile.
The Ryder Cup Captain’s Pick Process Will Change
How do you think Tom Watson feels now? He passed up on Billy Horschel when he had to announce his captain’s picks following the Deutsche Bank Championship. Do you think he’d choose him now? With the play of Horschel and Chris Kirk, who actually won the Deutsche Bank Championship and played well in the last two events, after picks were announced, it’s a safe bet that the PGA of America will change the timing of the Ryder Cup selection process next time around. And, for that, we’re thankful.
The Format Works But Could Use a Little Tweaking
Look, I love the playoffs — always have. I was never one of those fans who questioned its necessity, importance or longevity. That said, it could use some tweaks. Perhaps we could change the schedule. As we’ve heard from many a PGA Tour star, the back-to-back-to-back-to-back schedule is grueling and while that sort of schedule adds flair to the postseason in other sports, it prevents some from playing quality golf.
Jim Furyk is a Pro’s Pro
Jim Furyk won’t win any style points — like Horschel — but you’ve got to hand it to him. This guy can flat out play. While he hasn’t won since winning the 2010 FedExCup, Furyk has been in contention ever since. It seems that whenever the smoke clears, Furyk is there and in the mix. Case in point: today, when Rory faltered, Furyk was there to keep Horschel on his toes. Bravo, Jim, bravo.
Rory Is Even Better Than We Thought
Yeah I know, he didn’t win. In fact, he sort of gave it away on Sunday after starting the day tied with Horschel for the lead. But digging down a bit more, what Rory did during the playoffs was very impressive. Following an unbelievable season, which included two major championships and three wins total in a three week span — along with the “hangover” that followed — he managed to put himself in contention for the FedExCup title. He was t-22, t-5 and t-8 at the cup’s first three events before taking t-2 in Atlanta. Man, this guy’s good.
Related Links: 5 Things To Know About Billy Horschel | 9 Most Memorable FedExCup Moments
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