2023 Zurich Classic of New Orleans: Top 10 Power Rankings

Sam Burns and Billy Horschel are hoping the third time’s the charm.

In 2021, they carded 63-65 in best ball and 73-69 in alternate shot to reach 18-under and finish T-4th and two shots out of a playoff.

Last year, Burns/Horschel posted 62-63 in best ball and 68-68 in alternate shot to nearly come back from six down entering the day. They finished in solo second place three shots ahead of third but two behind Patrick Cantlay/Xander Schauffele.

"“I think for Billy, he’s such a consistent player, he’s somebody that’s great to play with because he’s always in the hole,” Burns was transcribed by ASAP Sports in 2022. “He hits the ball really well. He’s a great putter.”"

The two are effusive in their praise of the other.

"“I’ve said this for the last 18 months now, he’s so good, and he’s going to do some unbelievable things in this game of golf,” Horschel said of Burns in a 2022 ASAP Sports transcription. “Obviously I’ve been a cheerleader on the side with my pompons trying to tell everyone how great he is and to watch out for this guy.”"

Burns won last month at the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play. It was one of four straight top-30s leading into the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

Billy Horschel won at TPC Louisiana in 2013 when this was an individual event.

It’s been a bit of a tough season for Horschel, who needs to get a move on if he’s going to crack the top 70 for the FedEx Cup Playoffs.

I see this place, and this type of tournament, boosting the spirits and play of a gregarious guy like Billy.

Burns has the length to help them on the meatier holes, while both can hole putts with the best of them.