I’m predicting a lot of players to post career-best finishes at the WGC-Match Play. Webb Simpson is among them.
He’s missed out on the bracket stage each of the last three years. It’s surprising considering how steady of a player he is. Simpson is rarely out of a hole, but a lack of length can be a matchup disadvantage at times.
The former Wake Forest Demon Deacon has been solid in 2021. He owns two top-10s, including T-6th at the WGC-Workday Championship. Simpson has three top-12s in the last four WGCs.
The 35 year old’s toughest test in the group stage may come from the lowest-ranked player of the four and the youngest, No. 65 Talor Gooch.
Gooch has made four cuts in a row with two top-12s in that span.
Simpson’s veteran savvy will lift him past this one. He’ll take on another seasoned winner in Paul Casey. I could see this ending in a draw.
Whether it’s at 3-0-0, 2-1-0, or 2-0-1, Simpson will survive thanks in part to a win over Mackenzie Hughes. Hughes has finished no higher than T-19th in his last eight starts and is a newcomer to Austin Country Club.
Simpson’s best WGC-Match Play appearance will continue when he encounters Sergio Garcia, who unseats group favorite. Tyrrell Hatton.
Simpson will face another upstart in Sungjae Im. At this point, the younger Im will be able to survive in the wind and take down Simpson on the 18th hole, 1UP.
The North Carolinian ranks eighth in strokes gained putting (.474) and 13th in SG around the green (.676). That’s a great combo for match play. He’s not just a par machine. Simpson is 25th in birdie average (4.37).