The RSM Classic is the last tournament of the PGA TOUR season, where players fight for their 2026 eligibility status. With 156 golfers teeing off, this event promises high drama as players battle to secure their PGA TOUR cards.
Vince Whaley, with 18 consecutive cashes, is one to watch. The tournament’s unique format, with Seaside and Plantation Courses, adds to the challenge. The cut after two rounds will be nerve-wracking, with only the top 65 and ties advancing.
Weather forecasts predict ideal conditions, setting the stage for low scores. The courses, with their distinct characteristics, will test players’ skills. The winner gains exemptions into prestigious events, including THE PLAYERS Championship and the PGA Championship.
Don’t miss this thrilling season finale!
Imagine playing golf for your livelihood every single week. That’s the reality for many PGA Tour professionals. And this week’s RSM Classic is where the pressure reaches its peak. This tournament marks the final exam for the PGA Tours class of 2025. The last chance for players to secure their eligibility for the 2026 season. While some have already punched their ticket, others are scrambling to salvage their season in a high stakes cram session. And this is the part most people miss. It’s not just about winning the tournament, it’s about survival. Written by Rob Bolton, this preview delves into the unique drama of the RSM Classic held once again at the picturesque Sea Island Golf Club in Georgia. Since its inception in 2010, the tournament has served as the season finale with the seaside and plantation courses acting as open book tests for the 156 player field. But don’t be fooled by the idyllic setting. The stakes are as high as they come. The RSM Classic is more than just another golf tournament. For many players, it’s a fight for their job security. While some might try to treat it like any other event, the weight of the moment is undeniable. But here’s where it gets controversial. Is it fair that a single tournament can determine a player’s entire season? Or is this high pressure format what makes the PGA Tour so compelling? The format itself adds to the tension. After two rounds, the field is cut to the low 65 and ties, sending the rest to PGA Tour Q School for one last shot at exemption. Before the cut, players tackle both the Seaside Par 70 and Plantation Par 72 courses with only Seaside hosting the final two rounds. Analyzing scores requires a bit of math and patience as the differing PARs can skew leaderboard positions. Weather will play a significant role this week with forecasts predicting ideal conditions, plenty of sunshine, mid70s temperatures, and minimal wind. This sets the stage for low scores, particularly on Seaside, where players will need to capitalize on the calm conditions. Plantation with its four parives offers more birdie opportunities, but Seaside’s tighter fairways and recently renovated bunkers demand precision. Course conditions are pristine with Seaside’s larger Bermuda grass greens rolling at 13 on the stim meter. Plantations putting surfaces match this speed, though its rough is cut slightly shorter. These details matter as they can make the difference between a player securing their future or facing uncertainty. The rewards for victory are substantial. The winner earns exemptions into the players championship, the PGA Championship, and the RBC Heritage along with a PGA Tour membership through 2027. Even those finishing outside the top 50 in the FedEx Cup standings have something to play for, with exemptions into 2020 SIXS signature events and fully exempt status on the line. But let’s pause for a moment. Is the current system fair? Does it reward consistency over a season, or does it place too much emphasis on a single tournament? These are questions worth debating, and we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. As the drama unfolds along the Georgia coast, one thing is certain, the RSM Classic will deliver unforgettable moments both for the players fighting for their careers and the fans watching from the edge of their seats. For more insights, follow Rob Bolton’s schedule on gat.com or connect with him on X at robbolton. His power rankings, expert picks, and tournament recaps provide a comprehensive look at the action, ensuring you don’t miss a beat. Monday, power rankings. Tuesday, expert picks, sleepers, top 100 watch. Sunday, golf bet recap, qualifiers. What’s your take on the highstakes nature of the RSM Classic? Does it make for great theater or does it put too much pressure on players?
