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Computer model challenges Davis Thompson odds ahead of 2026 Myrtle Beach Classic

Brooks Koepka returns to the field as a slight favourite, while Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen emerges as a top-three contender in a 10,000-run simulation

Author
Adrian Cole
Political Correspondent
Published
Draft
Source: CBS Sports · original

                        2026 Myrtle Beach Classic odds, picks: Surprising predictions from golf model that's nailed 17 majors
Proprietary simulation by DFS expert Mike McClure suggests second favourite will struggle to finish in top five

The 2026 Myrtle Beach Classic is scheduled to commence on Thursday at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The tournament will feature a 120-player field described as an opposite field event running alongside the week's Signature Event. Notably, Brooks Koepka is confirmed in the field, marking his return to the PGA Tour following his tenure with LIV Golf.

A proprietary computer model built by DFS professional Mike McClure has simulated the 2026 Myrtle Beach Classic 10,000 times to generate betting predictions. The model, which has correctly predicted 17 major championships, suggests Davis Thompson will barely finish inside the top five despite being the second favourite. This projection advises bettors to avoid the Georgia native, who currently holds odds of +1300, despite his previous second-place finish in the event last year.

Conversely, the model identifies Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen as a top-three contender, suggesting him as a strong value pick at odds of +3000. The Danish golfer has made six out of eight cuts on the PGA Tour this year and ranks in the top 100 for strokes gained overall, off the tee, and approaching the green.

Brooks Koepka is listed as the slight favourite at +1200. The model highlights several other longshots, including Richard Hoey, Kevin Yu, and Aaron Rai, all priced around +3000 to +3300. These selections come from a simulation that claims a historical success rate of correctly predicting 17 major championships, including five consecutive Masters titles and the 2025 PGA Championship and Open Championship.

The odds provided in the source material are via FanDuel and are subject to change. The source institution notes that the simulation results challenge current market valuations, particularly regarding Thompson, who has just one top-10 finish in a solo event this year and is ranked 86th on the PGA Tour in total strokes gained.

While the model offers specific projections for the tournament, it is important to note that the provided odds are sourced via FanDuel and are subject to change. The prediction model's success rate is based on historical major championship predictions, not necessarily this specific tournament.

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