Scheffler Looks to Defy Betting Odds at Torrey Pines in The Genesis Invitational

Scottie Scheffler enters The Genesis Invitational as the betting favorite, but history suggests he faces an uphill battle. In recent years, pre-tournament favorites have struggled at Torrey Pines, making Scheffler’s quest for victory even more challenging.

This year, the tournament has been relocated from The Riviera Country Club to Torrey Pines Golf Club in La Jolla, California, due to wildfires in Pacific Palisades. Unlike the Farmers Insurance Open, which uses both the North and South Courses, The Genesis Invitational will be contested entirely on the South Course—one of the toughest layouts on the PGA TOUR.

Scheffler (+350) did not compete at Torrey Pines three weeks ago when Harris English won the Farmers Insurance Open. His track record at the course isn’t the strongest, having made just one cut in three Farmers appearances, with a T20 finish in 2022 being his best result. He enters this event coming off a T25 finish at the WM Phoenix Open, where a rough back-nine 41 on Sunday cost him a stronger result.

Despite these challenges, Scheffler has proven he can rise to the occasion. His ball-striking and consistency have made him one of the most dominant players on TOUR. He finished T9 at Pebble Beach earlier this season and remains the No. 1 betting choice due to his ability to deliver in high-stakes events.

However, he will face stiff competition. Rory McIlroy (+700), fresh off a win at Pebble Beach, has performed well at Torrey Pines in the past, including a T7 finish at the 2021 U.S. Open. Collin Morikawa (+1400), one of the most accurate drivers on TOUR, is another strong contender, while Hideki Matsuyama (+2200) brings the most experience at the course among the top-ranked players.

Scheffler’s challenge will be handling Torrey Pines South, a course that demands precision off the tee and a strong short game. If he can overcome the past struggles of betting favorites and put together four solid rounds, he has a chance to break the trend and claim victory at The Genesis Invitational.