This week's Zurich Classic marks the 62nd time in TOUR history that two professionals are teaming up in an official event, but it's been a while since the last: the Walt Disney World National Team Championship in 1981 (won by Vance Heafner and Mike Holland). With quite a bit of change on the circuit since and other ramifications to consider, here's a breakdown of what's what:
• The low 35 teams and ties after 36 holes will survive the cut. If more than 40 teams survive, a second (MDF) cut of low 35 teams and ties will occur at the conclusion of 54 holes.
• FedExCup points and earnings will be split per the usual distributions averaging finishes. So, both winners will receive 400 FedExCup points and $1,022,400.00, both averages of first and second place.
• Both winners will receive two-year PGA TOUR exemptions (through 2018-19).
• Both winners will receive exemptions into THE PLAYERS, the PGA Championship and all invitationals, including the Tournament of Champions in January.
• Official World Golf Ranking points will not be distributed. Therefore, neither winner is eligible for the potential of an exemption from this event into the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational (which uses strength-of-field rating for tournament winners).
• The top-10 exemption will apply to the golfers who are among the top-five teams. If any aren't already eligible for next week's Wells Fargo Championship, he will gain entry.
TPC Louisiana hosts for the 12th time. It's a stock par 72 with scorable par 4s and fair sets of par 3s and par 5s. It tips at 7,425 yards. Three of the par 3s are odd-numbered holes (Nos. 3, 9 and 17), so there will be deliberation among teams as to which partner is more comfortable on those boxes.
Last year's field averaged 71.159 in what was a 54-hole contest that still needed Monday to complete, but it represented the overall challenge well. Expansive fairways will add to the enjoyment of the format from every perspective, but greens are smaller than average with sections separated by severe undulations. They will test even good putters. The premium is on distance and accuracy on approach. It's a second-shot track with a soft spot for scrambling. Indeed, TPC Louisiana is an ideal course to host this format since team strategy tilts toward aggressive play.
Unfortunately, the threat for inclement weather is real again this week, particularly on the weekend when the wind is expected to howl. Daytime temps will climb into the mid-80s.
