2023 RBC Heritage: Top 10 Power Rankings at Harbour Town

It can be tricky forecasting how a major champion is going to perform immediately after winning.

On the plus side, Jon Rahm is obviously playing incredible golf. That’s a must to win the Masters, and it’s a continuation of form that’s netted him four PGA Tour victories in 2023.

Not to mention, landing his second major by age 28 has to free him up to play without much stress this week at Hilton Head.

Rahm’s wheels were spinning after a four-putt double-bogey on the first hole last week, but he played the final 71 holes in 14-under (65-69-73-69) to run away for a four-shot victory.

However, winning a major is a big-time energy sapper. Not to mention, the media junket and masses of phone calls and texts that will occupy his time.

I’ve got to give Rahm his due and give him a high spot in the power rankings this week, but I’d be a little wary to pick him to win.

Course experience is not on his side. Rahmbo’s only start at the RBC Heritage came in 2020 when he recorded 71-67-66-68 (-12) to finish T-33rd.

The RBC Heritage usually is not on his schedule. Rahm, like many other big names, opted into this event when it was the second tournament to be played after the Covid pause.

It’s not the best venue for his game. Rahm is a well-balanced player, but his power off the tee and through the bag is of little use this week.

The Arizona State alum ranks first on the PGA Tour in total strokes gained per round (2.498).

What can help him succeed in his second trip to Harbour Town is his iron play, which helps him sit fourth in SG approach (1.002).