British Open 2019: Featured pairings for the first two rounds at Royal Portrush

3: Francesco Molinari, Bryson DeChambeau, Adam Scott (4:58/9:58)

Last year’s British Open champion is out to defend his title, and he’ll be looking at the most scientifically-researched swing in one partner, and one of the most beautiful, artistic swings in history in the other. Even the most seasoned pro might get distracted just watching those guys.

The Italian is still ranked seventh in the world, but he enters this year’s Open significantly colder than last year. He won the Arnold Palmer Invitational earlier this year, but he hasn’t finished inside the top ten anywhere since his final round collapse at the Masters. It’ll be an uphill battle this week at Portrush.

On the other hand, Bryson DeChambeau (sixth in the world), has back-to-back top-ten finishes coming into this Open, and he nearly had the 3M Open in his hand before Matthew Wolff’s heroic eagle to reclaim the lead on the final hole. The British Open is a puzzle that DeChambeau has yet to crack, but given some time, I believe he’ll get it done. His recent form is certainly encouraging.

Finally, Adam Scott. People just aren’t talking about him the way they should be, and he’s still a legitimate contender nearly every time he tees it up. His putting can be a bit suspect at times, but when he’s got that under control, he’s as good as anybody. He doesn’t play a ton, but he’s got three straight top-ten finishes since the Masters, and he’s been outside the top 25 at The Open just twice since 2010.