Can Scottie Scheffler recover after a poor start?

Yes. Scheffler has the game and temperament to recover, but he must fix tee-to-green consistency and calm his putting to make a serious charge.

What gave Rory McIlroy the edge today?

McIlroy combined precise approach shots, smart course management and confident putting, turning pressure into a scoring run that put him clear of the field.

Should I back McIlroy for the win?

The Guru recommends backing McIlroy through the weekend while monitoring Scheffler’s short game; McIlroy is the safer pick, but late swings are possible.

McIlroy Seizes Momentum — Scheffler’s Early Collapse Leaves Questions

Rory McIlroy produced a controlled surge to take the lead at this week's PGA Tour event, turning steady ball-striking and confident putting into an unmistakable momentum swing. His approach play simplified putts and his short game was decisive when the pins bit. What looked like tactical patience became a scoring run that separated him from the chasing pack.

By contrast, Scottie Scheffler endured a nightmare start that turned promising holes into costly drops almost immediately. Missed fairways and several failed short putts erased position and left the world number one visibly off-balance. The leaderboard showed how quickly a few mistakes can turn a title defense into a recovery mission.

This wasn’t simply good versus bad golf; it was temperament and course management under a microscope. McIlroy chose lines and clubbing that reduced variance, while Scheffler’s aggression produced high-risk outcomes on a course that punished imprecision. If the wind changes or the pins bite harder, those small differences will magnify across the weekend.

The Guru’s verdict: back McIlroy through the weekend but don’t write Scheffler off — he will fight back if he rediscovers his short game and composure. My prediction is McIlroy holds the lead into Sunday, with Scheffler mounting a late charge that could make the finish interesting if he steadies himself. For bettors and viewers, favor McIlroy but keep an eye on Scheffler’s putter; the tournament is not decided yet.