FedEx St. Jude Championship 2026: Expert Picks, Predictions, and How to Watch the PGA Tour Playoffs

The FedEx St. Jude Championship is here, marking the thrilling start of the 2026 FedEx Cup Playoffs. As the PGA Tour descends upon TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee, golf fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating a week of high-stakes competition, dramatic finishes, and standout performances. This event not only kicks off the playoffs but also sets the tone for the races to come, with players vying for supremacy in one of golf’s most prestigious postseason series.

How to Watch the FedEx St. Jude Championship

For fans looking to catch all the action, the 2026 FedEx St. Jude Championship will be broadcast live across multiple platforms. Round 1 tees off on Thursday, August 13, with comprehensive TV coverage available on major sports networks. Viewers can tune in to Golf Channel and CBS for live updates, analysis, and highlights throughout the tournament. Additionally, streaming options are available via ESPN+ and Paramount+, ensuring you don’t miss a single moment of the action, whether you're at home or on the go.

For those interested in following specific pairings, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, two of the game’s biggest stars, will tee off together in a highly anticipated matchup. Their presence adds an extra layer of excitement to an already stacked field, as both players look to make a statement in the opening event of the playoffs The Athletic.

Expert Picks and Predictions

As the playoffs begin, experts and analysts have been weighing in with their picks, predictions, and sleepers for the FedEx St. Jude Championship. The consensus among many is that Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1, enters the tournament as the favorite. Despite already holding a comfortable lead in the FedEx Cup standings, Scheffler’s form and consistency make him a formidable contender. However, the playoffs are unpredictable, and experts warn against counting out other top players like Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Xander Schauffele, all of whom have the game to turn the leaderboard on its head.

A surprising trend in this year’s expert picks is the cautious optimism surrounding Viktor Hovland. While some analysts are fading him due to recent inconsistencies, others believe this could be the week he breaks through and makes a deep run. According to CBS Sports, one expert is particularly bullish on Hovland’s chances, citing his ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations CBS Sports.

For those interested in prop bets and fantasy golf, the FedEx St. Jude Championship offers plenty of opportunities. Analysts suggest keeping an eye on Collin Morikawa and Patrick Cantlay, both of whom have shown flashes of brilliance this season and could be dark horses in this week’s event. Additionally, SportsLine’s projection model, which has accurately predicted outcomes in 17 major championships, has simulated the tournament 10,000 times and revealed some surprising picks. Their data-driven insights could be invaluable for fans looking to make informed decisions SportsLine.

Key Storylines to Watch

The 2026 FedEx St. Jude Championship is packed with compelling storylines that promise to captivate audiences. Here are a few to keep an eye on:

• Scheffler’s Dominance: Can the world No. 1 continue his stellar form and solidify his status as the player to beat in the playoffs?
• McIlroy’s Redemption: After a rollercoaster season, Rory McIlroy is looking to regain his momentum and make a statement in Memphis.
• Rising Stars: Keep an eye on young guns like Ludvig Åberg and Sahith Theegala, who have been making waves on the PGA Tour and could be poised for a breakthrough performance.
• Veteran Presence: Experienced campaigners like Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas will be looking to draw on their playoff experience to gain an edge.

The tournament’s TPC Southwind course is known for its challenging layout, particularly its demanding greens and strategic bunkering. Players will need to bring their A-game to navigate the course successfully, making shot-making and course management critical to their success.

What’s at Stake?

The FedEx Cup Playoffs are more than just a series of tournaments—they represent the culmination of a season’s worth of hard work, determination, and perseverance. The FedEx St. Jude Championship is the first of three playoff events, with the top 70 players in the FedEx Cup standings qualifying for this week’s action. Points earned here will determine who advances to the BMW Championship and, ultimately, the Tour Championship, where the FedEx Cup champion will be crowned.

Beyond the prestige and the trophy, the playoffs offer a $25 million bonus pool, with the FedEx Cup champion taking home a life-changing $18 million. The financial incentives, combined with the opportunity to etch their name in golf history, make this a high-stakes affair that no player will take lightly.

Final Thoughts

As the 2026 FedEx St. Jude Championship gets underway, fans can expect a week filled with drama, excitement, and world-class golf. With expert picks pointing to a mix of established stars and rising talents, the tournament promises to be unpredictable and thrilling. Whether you’re tuning in to watch the leaders battle it out or keeping an eye on the sleepers, this event is not to be missed.

For the latest updates, live scores, and highlights, be sure to follow Golfweek and CBS Sports, who will be providing comprehensive coverage throughout the tournament Golfweek.

Stay tuned, place your bets, and enjoy the ride—because the FedEx Cup Playoffs are just getting started!