PGA DFS Preview Honda Classic 2023

The PGA Tour is back in the sunshine state this week as the pros head to Palm Beach Gardens for the 2023 Honda Classic. The PGA National course will host the tournament, and it’s one of the toughest on the tour. The par 70 course is around 7,100-7,200 yards and has a range of water hazards and tight driving holes. The greens are Bermuda, and the course was designed by Tom Fazio in 1981, with a redesign from Jack Nicklaus.

The PGA National course is infamous for its signature finishing stretch, known as the “bear trap,” which is designed to trip up even the most seasoned pros. The course is a long, tough par 70 that requires players to hit pinpoint accuracy shots on smaller greens. Additionally, gusting winds, common in this part of Florida, make the course even more challenging, turning it into a survival fest.

Approach play is crucial at PGA National, with top finishers tending to gain the most in the strokes gained category. With several of the par 3 holes featuring water hazards, players will need to execute tough shots to avoid penalties and multiple doubles on the card. This course isn’t a simple wedge fest where hot putting alone can give golfers a chance to win.

In terms of key stats to look out for this week, strokes gained on approach, strokes gained proximity (175+ yards), and strokes gained around the green are crucial. While a good short game and hot putter are helpful, players will need to hit aggressively with mid to long irons on many holes to navigate this difficult course successfully. 

As always, it’s set to be an exciting week of golf at the Honda Classic.