2024 BMW Championship preview: Field, odds, venue, weather and more

BMW Championship: Weather and Course Condition

The course conditions at Castle Pines are expected to be immaculate, with the fairways and greens in peak shape for the tournament. The elevation and dry Colorado climate ensure that the course will play firm and fast, adding another layer of difficulty for the players. The narrow fairways and penal rough will reward accuracy, making it essential for players to keep their drives in play to avoid difficult recovery shots.

As for the weather, early forecasts predict sunny skies with temperatures ranging from the low 60s in the morning to the mid-80s in the afternoon during the BMW Championship’s weekend. Wind conditions could vary, with gusts expected to pick up in the afternoons, potentially affecting play on the longer holes.

The thin air at this altitude also means that any breeze will have a more pronounced effect on ball flight, making club selection a critical factor.

The Field

The 2024 BMW Championship boasts a stellar field, headlined by World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who enters the tournament as the betting favorite. Scheffler has been in remarkable form all season, and his ability to consistently contend makes him a strong candidate for the title.

Joining him as top contenders are Xander Schauffele, who has had a breakthrough season with two major victories, and Rory McIlroy, who despite a recent slump, remains a threat on any course.

Another player to watch is Hideki Matsuyama, who surged to victory at the FedEx St. Jude Championship. His win in Memphis has catapulted him into third place in the FedEx Cup standings and positioned him as a strong contender for the BMW Championship.

Matsuyama’s confidence is high after his recent success, and his precise ball-striking will serve him well on the demanding Castle Pines layout.

BMW Championship defending champion Viktor Hovland will also be in the spotlight as he aims to reclaim his title. Last year, Hovland’s spectacular final round at Olympia Fields secured his victory, and although 2024 hasn’t been his best season, his recent performance suggests that he could be peaking at the right time.

Alongside him, two-time BMW winner Patrick Cantlay will be another player to watch, with his past success in this event making him a dangerous competitor.

Expert and Sleeper Picks

Expert Picks:

Scottie Scheffler (3-1): Scottie Scheffler continues to be a dominant force on the PGA Tour, with remarkable consistency in his performances. Leading the PGA Tour in strokes gained: tee-to-green, Scheffler’s ball-striking abilities are second to none.

Despite not yet winning a FedEx Cup playoff event, his world No. 1 ranking and a strong showing at the recent FedEx Cup opener make him a top contender. His ability to maintain greens in regulation percentage will be crucial at Castle Pines, where accuracy on approach shots is key.

Hideki Matsuyama (18-1): Fresh off a victory at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, Matsuyama enters the BMW Championship with momentum on his side. His sharp short game and clutch putting, as demonstrated by his birdie finish last week, position him well for success.

Matsuyama’s form is peaking at the right time, and with Castle Pines requiring precise shot-making, his experience and confidence will be invaluable.

Sleeper Picks:

Akshay Bhatia (50-1): Akshay Bhatia has been making waves as a young talent on the PGA Tour, showcasing his potential in several strong outings. Known for his aggressive play and fearless approach, Bhatia could capitalize on the elevation and firm fairways at Castle Pines.

With a win already this season, he has proven he can compete at a high level, making him an intriguing sleeper pick with high odds.

Robert MacIntyre (55-1): Robert MacIntyre has shown resilience and growth throughout the season, with a recent T7 finish at the FedEx St. Jude Championship. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, as evidenced by his victories at the RBC Canadian Open and Genesis Scottish Open, makes him a formidable long-shot bet.

MacIntyre’s familiarity with different playing conditions and his improved form give him a solid chance to surprise the field at Castle Pines.