FedEx Cup Playoffs Preview: Breaking down the top ten contenders

CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 13: Justin Thomas of the United States shakes hands with Hideki Matsuyama of Japan on the 18th green during the final round of the 2017 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club on August 13, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images) /

7 of 11

(Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images) /

Rickie Fowler continues to evolve as a pro in his later 20s, and that progression paid off in 2017. His victory at the Honda Classic in February set the tone for a potential breakthrough year. Although he didn’t bring home a major this year, it was clearly his best season since 2014.

That year, as we all remember, Fowler finished in the top five at all four majors. This year, the Oklahoma State alum pulled off top-25s in all the majors, but he had a share of an overnight lead in both the Masters and the U.S. Open. He couldn’t close the deal, but it was another step in the right direction.

Fowler will look to channel a bit more of that year in these Playoffs. In 2014, Fowler finished in the top ten in three Playoff events, before winning the Deutsche Bank Championship in 2015.

With a few exceptions, Fowler is one of the hottest players on the TOUR today. With top-ten finishes in five of his last seven outings, including two majors and a World Golf Championship, there isn’t a tournament out there with too tough a field for Fowler.

The breakthrough is coming for Fowler, and it’s coming soon. Perhaps as soon as the Tour Championship.

Home/Golf Power Rankings