2021 Rocket Mortgage Classic: Round 2 Matchups

Jul 01, 2021

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As the third edition of the Rocket Mortgage Classic progressed on Thursday, there was never a lack of storylines. The day started with returning runner-up, Matthew Wolff, continuing his comeback by gaining four strokes ball-striking, and finishing his round at 5-under par. Then came the rain, which led to a delay of three hours and 15 minutes. It was during the delay that news broke of returning champion, Bryson DeChambeau, parting ways with his caddie, Tim Tucker. While that drama continued to unfold on social media, DeChambeau began his round at 2-over par through the first three holes and looked all out-of-sorts. He finished at even-par and unless he goes low tomorrow, is in great danger of missing the cut. The story of the day, however, was PGA rookie Davis Thompson tying the course record, shooting a 9-under par 63. As darkness descended, with numerous players still on the course, Joaquin Niemann made a late charge up the leaderboard, joining Brandon Hagy and Tom Lewis, in finishing two shots back of Thompson at 7-under par. With the cut projected to be around 5-under, players will have to keep up the scoring pace to avoid an early exit. There is one interesting outright selection to keep an eye on. Matthew Wolff +1800 (FanDuel) is only five shots behind the lead. His approach play and performance off-the-tee on Thursday is the recipe for success. If he can stay consistent with his short game and make a few more putts, it would not surprise me to see him fly up the leaderboard.