2021 RSM Classic: Top 10 power rankings at Sea Island

Being a Sea Island resident is not the be-all, end-all to succeeding at the RSM Classic.

In fact, unless you count Kevin Kisner, who lived at Sea Island while his home in South Carolina was under renovation, no one from the Sea Island Mafia has won his home tournament.

There are obvious advantages to being familiar with one’s surroundings, but Cameron Smith is talented enough to overcome a lack thereof.

The long-locked Aussie is making his tournament debut. Smith comes in hungry for a win with six top-20s in his last seven starts, including solo second at The Northern Trust.

The 28-year-old hasn’t missed a cut since June, though he hasn’t won an individual event since the 2020 Sony Open.

Smith comes to Georgia playing for the second week in a row after taking a month off after T-9th at the CJ Cup. He was in the 60s his last three rounds last week at the Houston Open to climb up to T-15th.

A shorter hitter known for his shot-making and short game should enjoy playing the Plantation and Seaside courses.

Smith ranked 25th on the PGA Tour last season in strokes gained around the green (.261) and 10th in SG putting (.573).

Nineteen-under-par has won each of the last three years, so racking up red numbers is crucial. Smith was third in birdie average (4.48).

He also fits the Australian stereotype of trusty bunker play. Smith was fourth in sand saves (63.19%).

Guys are going to have wedges in hand a lot this week. Smith was first in approach proximity from 100-125 yards (16’) and in the top 10 from 50-125 and 125-150.