Here are 11 notable players who missed the cut at the 2024 John Deere Classic
As the sun set over Silvis, Illinois, the atmosphere was electric at the 2024 John Deere Classic. Spectators were treated to a thrilling display of golf, with C.T. Pan and Aaron Rai locked in a fierce battle for the top spot. Both golfers exhibited remarkable consistency, each carding a 6-under 65 on Thursday and an 8-under 63 on Friday, to sit at an impressive 14 under par. This performance sets the stage for a nail-biting weekend as they vie for victory.
Rising Stars and Unyielding Contenders
Aaron Rai, an Englishman, is fresh off a tie for second at the Rocket Mortgage Classic, putting him in prime position for his maiden PGA Tour win. His calm demeanor and precise play have made him a standout this week. Meanwhile, C.T. Pan, known for his strategic approach and unwavering focus, has matched Rai stroke for stroke, making this one of the most exciting contests in recent memory.
Harry Hall also made a significant impact, following up his stellar first-round 63 with a solid 6-under 65, positioning him alone in third at 13 under, just one stroke behind the leaders. Hall’s relentless pursuit of excellence has kept him within striking distance, ensuring that the final rounds will be intensely competitive.
The Chase Pack: Who Will Emerge?
A cluster of six players sits tied for fourth at 12 under, merely two strokes off the lead. This group includes seasoned veterans and rising talents, all of whom have demonstrated the capability to mount a charge over the weekend. With eight more players tied at 10th at 11 under, the leaderboard is tightly packed, promising plenty of drama as the tournament progresses.
The Cut Line: Heartbreak and Triumph
The 36-hole cut came in at 5-under 137, with 77 players making it through to the weekend. However, for some notable names, the John Deere Classic journey ended prematurely. Here are 11 players who, despite their efforts, are heading home early:
Daniel Berger (4 under): Despite showing flashes of brilliance, Berger missed his third cut in his last four starts.
Nick Dunlap (3 under): Touted as a betting favorite after his T-10 finish in Detroit, Dunlap struggled to find his rhythm.
Matt Kuchar (3 under): Battling through an injury, Kuchar, who tied for 25th in Detroit, couldn’t replicate his form this week.
Harry Higgs (3 under): Making his first PGA Tour start since the U.S. Open, Higgs couldn’t make it past the cut.
Cameron Champ (3 under): Champ’s season continues to be challenging, with this being his 12th missed cut in 15 starts.
Kevin Kisner (2 under): Kisner began strongly with a 3-under 68 but faltered on Friday with a 1-over 72, marking his 12th missed cut in 15 starts.
Brandt Snedeker (Even): After an encouraging 4-under 67 on Thursday, Snedeker struggled on Day 2, carding a 4-over 75.
Maverick McNealy (Even): McNealy’s recent form has been inconsistent, culminating in a missed cut at the John Deere Classic.
Wesley Bryan (1 over): Bryan’s season woes continued as he missed his sixth cut in eight starts, despite a promising start in Detroit.
Peter Malnati (1 over): Malnati has faced difficulties lately, with his struggles continuing at the John Deere Classic.
Davis Riley (5 over): After winning the Charles Schwab Challenge in May, Riley has experienced a dip in form, missing two cuts in his last four starts.
Anticipation Builds for the Weekend
As the weekend approaches, the anticipation is palpable. With a tightly contested leaderboard and numerous potential storylines, golf fans are in for a treat. Will C.T. Pan or Aaron Rai pull ahead, or will one of the chasers emerge from the pack? The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 John Deere Classic. Stay tuned for more twists and turns as the action unfolds in Silvis, Illinois.