I was in California a few months ago, lucky enough to play Pebble, Spyglass, MPCC - Dunes, and Pasatiempo. Great courses all, but without question the course I've spent the most time thinking about is Pasa. Fascinating holes and bunkering, and I found the greens to be reasonable (our host at MPCC said the greens bordered on impossible pre-Urbina). Yes, houses mildly annoying on a few holes, but on others they're fun and fit in -- particularly on 6 (which include MacKenzie's house). The only thing that irritated me is that there were a few minor things on the course that felt, well, cheap -- a chain link fence near the 7th tee; cart paths that are crumbling on the edges. I know greens fees are not part of the egg rating process (and appreciate and agree with why), but hard not to think I paid $400 for this -- invest in a wooden fence!

Great profile, Will! That Double Plateau green looks so big. Like Stephen, I didn't know anything about Tamarack. I can't recall if there have been other Banks course profiles, but I'll have to start digging. Personally curious to compare some Raynor courses vs Banks.

The tour would benefit from a Rory Rule where, instead of forcing all eligible players to participate in each round, the Tour grants a bye to the top 15 or 20 players. This reduces the size of the field in Memphis, creates compelling storylines for lesser-known players, and increases the probability of all the top players qualifying for East Lake (which the Tour needs if they want to put on a good product because East Lake doesn't help).

I know what Data Golf says but can we see anything from Cantlay leading up to this Ryder Cup. I know he’s a stalworth but with the back end of the roster trending upwards it’s gonna be a tough sell. Although it is Playoff P szn.

Immdediately upon leaving, I would have wanted it to be on Pacific. 5 years removed, I would want Trails.

Agree with this. I'd probably do Pac just because it's the most difficult and should be easier the second time around.

Nice piece. After seeing those early Pasa pictures, I think housing removal should be the next trend in GCA.

Pac may be my favorite course out there, but nothing beats a late afternoon round on Bandon as you hit the back 9 seaside holes near sunset

I can see both sides of this argument, but land on the same side as you do where I don't see the need for a rule. "That's what the money is for" applies slightly, with only _implied_ obligations. But, there was no true up-front money for actual obligations, and in skipping the event, he's skipping the purse and the chance to win his part of it. So, whatever. The Tour has to walk a funny line between true independent contractors versus the obligations (minimum number of events, how much you require of "signature series" type players, etc.).

I give Morgan credit for examining this controversial subject matter efficiently and thoroughly.