How to bet the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches: Best bets, DFS tips and more - ESPN

ESPN

by Pamela Maldonado

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, hosted at PGA National, is a tournament that rewards precision, patience, and strong short-game skills. Known for its challenging layout with narrow fairways, water hazards, and Bermuda rough, the course demands accuracy and smart shot-making. This year, sports betting analyst Pamela Maldonado highlights players who excel in these areas, particularly Christiaan Bezuidenhout and Andrew Putnam. Christiaan Bezuidenhout is a standout choice due to his exceptional short-game abilities, ranking fourth in strokes gained around the green and second in putting. His ability to convert mid-range putts and save par under pressure makes him a reliable bet, especially on courses like PGA National where scrambling is crucial. Maldonado notes that Bezuidenhout’s consistency off the tee and his strong performance in similar conditions make him a top contender. Andrew Putnam offers another layer of value with his control around the greens and bogey-avoidance skills. He excels in managing missed shots, keeping rounds intact even when others falter. While his recent form has been mixed, his strengths at courses favoring precision over power, like PGA National, make him a solid DFS play. The article also cautions against overexposure by advising readers to manage their bankrolls carefully, as correlated bets can lead to significant losses if both players underperform. The key takeaway is that success here hinges on course fit and strategic betting rather than chasing high-priced favorites. For sports enthusiasts and bettors, this tournament highlights the importance of analyzing player strengths and course dynamics. It underscores how understanding these factors can provide an edge in predicting outcomes and maximizing returns in DFS and traditional betting.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/25/2026