WGC-Match Play: Predictions for All 16 Groups

Group 13: Bubba Watson, Thomas Pieters, Scott Piercy, Jhonattan Vegas

Sam’s Pick: Pieters — Not everyone in this group is playing well at the moment, but if nothing else, we’ll get to see some compelling long drive contests from these four this week. They all average more than 295 yards off the tee, making this perhaps the most powerful group in the field.

Of course, Watson and Piercy have been struggling in 2017, so my decision essentially comes down to Pieters and Vegas. While there are compelling arguments on both sides, I have to support the Belgian — not only did he flash plenty of form at the WGC-Mexico Championship, he also had a great week for Team Europe at the Ryder Cup last fall. If it’s not Pieters, consider it an upset.

Beth’s Pick: Watson — I don’t look at Bubba as an upset. To be sure, the guy has struggled in stroke play competitions, but you can’t ignore his match play experience – 3 Ryder Cups, 2 Presidents Cups. Watson knows how to navigate match play and the format could prove the antidote to his golfing doldrums. Austin Country Club is the kind of track that brings out the best in Bubba’s game.  Look for him to wake up and play some golf this week.