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Emiliano Grillo could have hit a moving ball?!?
That and all the other crazy things we learned from his bizarre rules incident over the weekend including cart path drops…
We admit to being guilty from time to time of overusing the terms “bizarre” and “rules incident” in the same sentence. But we’re not entirely sure how to more aptly characterize what happened to Emiliano Grillo on the 72nd hole of the Charles Schwab Challenge than as, well, a “bizarre rules incident.”
It all becomes more, ahem, bizarre thanks to the fact that Grillo overcame the double-bogey 6 he would make on the 72nd hole to win in a playoff anyway, ending a nearly eight-year PGA Tour victory drought when he looked like it was drifting away down that aqueduct along the 18th hole.
Here then is our attempt at explaining what went down and why it was so … again, sorry, bizarre…
The set-up
Grillo started the day at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth four shots back of Harry Hall and Adam Schenk but made a furious charge, birdieing four of his first seven holes. As Schenk and Hall struggled down the stretch, both searching for their first PGA Tour wins, Grillo took a two-shot lead with another birdie on the par-3 16th. That was his advantage as he stood on the 18th tee at 10 under for the tournament.
All wet off the tee
Despite being ahead by two, Grillo used a driver off the tee, the ball leaking quickly to the right. It eventually found its way into a penalty area to the right of the fairway, in an aqueduct with water about two to three inches deep.
Downstream issues
The aqueduct tilted downhill back toward the tee, so as the ball entered the water, it started following the flow and moving backward. Slowly. Very slowly …
The rules explained
Mark Dusbabek, the PGA Tour rules official working the broadcast, helped explain to Jim Nantz, Trevor Immelman, and the CBS crew what was going on in real-time as he was also listening in to the rules team’s discussions. Dusbabek explained that they had identified where the ball had entered the penalty area (roughly 187 yards away from the hole), which was the likely place Grillo would take a drop and play what would be his third shot with the penalty stroke. However, as the ball continued moving—as we said very slowly—down the aqueduct, there was the potential that Grillo could actually play the ball while it was moving.
Rule 10.1d notes that “A player must not make a stroke at a moving ball.” However, there are a few exceptions also listed. Exception 3 states, “When a ball is moving in temporary water or in water in a penalty area, the player may make a stroke.”
Dusbabek noted the potential for Grillo to hit the moving ball, but did Grillo know he could? Turns out he likely did, since he’d been in this aqueduct before.
“I’ve hit it there,” Grillo said after the round. “I knew, as soon as I saw the ball going right, I was like, ‘This is going to be a very long hole.’ I’ve been through that pain of watching the ball just roll 120 yards back.”
Decision time
As the ball kept moving, however, Dusbabek explained that eventually, Grillo had to make up his mind on how he wanted to proceed. He couldn’t wait forever to see if the ball would stop in a more advantageous spot or not or if he was set to hit it while it was moving. And after roughly seven minutes, Dusbabek even interjected that the committee had decided enough was enough and that Grillo would have to decide to play the ball where it entered the penalty area (or presumably take a stroke and distance penalty and go back to the tee).
“We as a committee have been talking about it but enough time has taken place and he has been given enough time to make a decision here, so we’re going to make him go back to where it last crossed,” Dusbabek said.
Moments later, the ball did stop against a rock, roughly 140 yards or so from where it entered the penalty area.
Third shot off a cart path?!?
The camera eventually showed Grillo taking a penalty drop just outside the aqueduct but the ball rolling back in. He did this twice and then placed the ball on the concrete, which got the curiosity of Immelman.
“Dus, why was he allowed to drop it on the path right there?”
Dusbabek alerted everyone that the red line for the penalty area was right of where he took the drop. So the cement path was not in the penalty area, and is considered an immovable obstruction. Grillo didn’t seem to be phased by it as he showed no hesitation in what was going to happen next.
Grillo played his third shot off the concrete, getting a pretty clean shot off. The ball advanced 146 yards, leaving him 44 yards left to get up and down for a bogey, that would still have given him a one-shot lead. But the fourth shot stopped 19 feet from the hole and he missed the bogey putt.
The rest of the story
To his credit, Grillo didn’t mope around after his stumble, signing for a two-under 68 and waiting to see what would happen to Schenk and Hall as they played the 18th hole. Sure enough, Hall also found water, although the more traditional sort, as he pulled his drive into a small pond left of the fairway. He’d eventually make a bogey to finish tied for third.
Schenk had a chance to win in regulation with a birdie try from 15 feet but just came up short, forcing a playoff. They both replayed the 18th for the first sudden-death hole, Grillo finding the fairway this time. Pars from both sent them to the par-3 16th, where a birdie from Grillo would clinch the victory.
In the ever-evolving world of professional golf, few rivalries capture the contrast of style and substance like Scottie Scheffler versus Bryson DeChambeau. While both have claimed massive wins and global headlines, their paths to success and how they play the game couldn’t be more different. Here’s a deep dive into their strengths, weaknesses, career highlights, and what makes each stand out in today’s competitive landscape.
Backgrounds and Styles
Scottie Scheffler
The Dallas-born Scheffler embodies a classic, workmanlike approach to golf. Known for his calm demeanor, efficient swing, and remarkable consistency, Scheffler has risen to the top of the world rankings with little flash but elite-level substance. His game is built on balance, precision, and one of the most reliable tee-to-green performances the sport has seen in years.
Bryson DeChambeau
Nicknamed “The Scientist,” DeChambeau has taken an analytical and experimental approach to the game. He’s redefined physical fitness in golf, adding serious bulk to increase driving distance. Known for using single-length irons and obsessing over launch angles and biomechanics, Bryson is a true disruptor. His aggressive style polarizes fans and analysts, but it undeniably commands attention.
Strengths
Scheffler
- Tee-to-Green Excellence: Leads the PGA Tour in strokes gained tee-to-green.
- Consistency: Rarely misses cuts and often finishes in the top 10.
- Short Game: Exceptional touch and creativity around the greens.
- Mental Game: Composed under pressure; rarely rattled.
DeChambeau
- Driving Distance: One of the longest hitters in the game; regularly over 320 yards.
- Innovation: Willing to take unconventional approaches for marginal gains.
- Power Play: Dominates par 5s and shortens long courses with his length.
- Confidence: Self-belief and boldness to attempt shots most won’t.
Weaknesses
Scheffler
- Putting: Historically his weakest stat, though he’s shown improvement.
- Media Presence: More reserved; lacks the big personality that moves the needle for fans and brands.
DeChambeau
- Inconsistency: Can be volatile—either dominating or struggling.
- Course Management: Aggressiveness sometimes leads to trouble.
- Injury Risk: His physical transformation has come with some health setbacks.
Biggest Wins
Scottie Scheffler
- The Masters (2022)
- The Players Championship (2023)
- Multiple WGC and Signature Events
As of 2025, Scheffler has claimed over 10 PGA Tour titles and continues to rack up top finishes in majors and elite events.
Bryson DeChambeau
- U.S. Open (2020)
- Arnold Palmer Invitational (2021)
- Multiple LIV Golf Wins
DeChambeau made headlines by joining LIV Golf, where he’s claimed multiple high-stakes victories, including a team championship and a dominant individual LIV win in 2023.
Career Earnings
Scheffler:
Over $50 million in PGA Tour earnings alone, with additional income from endorsements like Nike, TaylorMade, and Rolex.
DeChambeau:
Estimated $60–$80 million, largely boosted by a reported $100+ million LIV Golf contract and additional prize money. His endorsements have shifted due to his controversial LIV move, but he remains a marketable figure.
Similarities
Both are U.S.-born and played collegiate golf (Scheffler at Texas, DeChambeau at SMU).
Each has reached the top 10 in the Official World Golf Ranking.
Both have won majors and represented the U.S. in Ryder Cups.
Each has shown a willingness to be different—Scheffler through quiet dominance, DeChambeau through outspoken innovation.
Key Differences
| Trait | Scottie Scheffler | Bryson DeChambeau |
|---|---|---|
| Playing Style | Traditional, consistent | Aggressive, experimental |
| Physical Transformation | Minimal | Extreme (bulk and strength) |
| Equipment | Standard setup | Single-length irons |
| Public Persona | Reserved, grounded | Outspoken, controversial |
| Tour Affiliation | PGA Tour loyalist | LIV Golf convert |
Final Thoughts
Scheffler and DeChambeau represent two archetypes in modern golf: one a quiet technician, the other a showman scientist. Whether you admire Scottie’s stoic efficiency or Bryson’s radical reinvention, both are changing the game in their own way. And in a sport where individuality meets performance, there’s room—and demand—for both.
If you’ve ever walked off the 18th green thinking, “It’s not me, it’s the clubs,” well… you might be half right.
As a PGA Professional who’s watched thousands of swings—from scratch players to first-timers—I can tell you that one of the most overlooked keys to better golf is proper club fitting. Not just buying shiny new sticks off the rack, but taking the time to find clubs that are tailored to your swing.
You don’t need a Tour card to get Tour-level precision. Let’s talk about why club fitting matters, what it changes, and how it can truly transform your game from the tee box to the final putt.
The Myth of “Good Enough”
“I’m not good enough to be fit for clubs.”
That’s the most common thing I hear—and it’s completely backwards.
High-handicap golfers have even more to gain from club fitting than low-handicappers. Why? Because the equipment can help you fix ball flight, optimize distance, reduce mis-hits, and build confidence—all without having to reinvent your swing.
Off-the-rack clubs are designed to fit “average” specs. But no two golfers are the same. Length, lie angle, shaft flex, grip size—these all play a massive role in how the club interacts with your body and the ground.
What Happens in a Proper Club Fitting?
At its core, a fitting session is about matching the equipment to your natural swing—not forcing you to swing a certain way to fit the gear.
Here’s what a proper club fitting includes:
1. Interview & Swing Assessment
A certified fitter (or PGA pro like myself) will ask about your current set, ball flight tendencies, common misses, and goals. Then we’ll watch you hit some shots to get a baseline.
2. Launch Monitor Data
Using tools like TrackMan or Foresight, we’ll capture numbers like:
- Ball speed
- Launch angle
- Spin rate
- Club path and face angle
- Carry distance and dispersion
These numbers don’t lie—and they tell us what to tweak.
3. Testing Head & Shaft Combinations
You’ll hit several combinations of club heads and shafts to find what gives you the best performance. One degree of loft or a different shaft flex can make a huge difference.
4. Dialing In Lie Angle & Length
Lie angle affects directional control—too upright, and you might pull shots left; too flat, and you’ll miss right. Club length affects control, consistency, and strike location.
5. Grip Size & Feel
Don’t underestimate this. A grip that’s too thick or too thin can alter your grip pressure and release pattern.
Real Results—Backed by Data
One of my students recently went through a full iron fitting. He was using clubs he bought off the rack 10 years ago. His miss was a push-fade, and he struggled with distance control.
After 90 minutes, a combination of slightly shorter shafts, softer flex, and two degrees more upright lie changed everything. His dispersion tightened by 40%, and he gained an average of 12 yards per club. More importantly—his confidence skyrocketed.
And it wasn’t just him. Across the board, golfers who get fitted:
- Gain more consistent contact
- Reduce directional misses
- Improve distance gapping
- Hit more greens in regulation
- Score better, without changing their swing
The Mental Game Boost
Here’s a secret: it’s not just about numbers. Fitted clubs give you confidence. When you know the tool in your hand is built for you, you swing freer, commit more fully, and stop second-guessing every shot.
Confidence leads to better swings. Better swings lead to better results. It’s a cycle—and it starts with the right equipment.
What About Cost?
Yes, a proper fitting might cost $75–$150 depending on where you go. And yes, custom-fit clubs may be slightly more than what you’d pay at a big box store.
But if you’re already spending time and money on golf, wouldn’t you want to get the most out of it?
A one-time investment in fitting can save you years of frustration—and possibly hundreds spent chasing fixes that won’t work with ill-fitting clubs.
Look—I’ve given thousands of lessons in my career, and nothing changes a golfer’s outlook faster than finally swinging clubs that work with them, not against them.
Whether you’re a 5 handicap trying to fine-tune yardages or a 25 handicap tired of slicing your driver, a proper club fitting can absolutely be a game changer.
You don’t need a new swing—you just need the right tools.
So before you spend another dollar on swing gadgets or tip videos, find your local PGA professional or certified fitter and book a session. Your game (and your sanity) will thank you.
Want more ways to play better without starting over?
Visit ClickItGolf.com every week for practical golf improvement tips, equipment reviews, betting insights, and advice from golfers who live the game every day.
Blog
Zurich Classic 2025: Betting & Fantasy Insights from Kelly Hodgeson
Rory McIlroy returns to the Zurich Classic with Shane Lowry as favorites, but in this unique team event, betting and fantasy success comes down to smart picks and hidden value—here’s how to play it.
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans returns this week, offering a unique team format that challenges both bettors and fantasy players alike. As someone who enjoys the thrill of wagering and the strategy of fantasy golf, I’ve taken a close look at this year’s field to provide insights that could help you make informed decisions.
Understanding the Format
The Zurich Classic is the PGA Tour’s only team event, featuring 80 two-man teams competing over four rounds:
- Rounds 1 & 3: Best Ball (Four-Ball)
- Rounds 2 & 4: Alternate Shot (Foursomes)
This format emphasizes team chemistry and strategy, making it distinct from traditional stroke play events.
Defending champions Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry enter the tournament as favorites, with odds around +350 to +360 across various sportsbooks. Their victory last year and McIlroy’s recent Masters win contribute to their favored status.
Betting Consideration: While their form is impressive, the low odds may not offer substantial value. In team events with unpredictable dynamics, it’s often prudent to seek teams with higher potential returns.
Teams to Watch
Several pairings present intriguing opportunities:
- Billy Horschel & Tom Hoge (+2200): Horschel’s history at TPC Louisiana, including a previous win, combined with Hoge’s recent top-20 finishes, make them a formidable duo.
- Thomas Detry & Robert MacIntyre (+1800): This European pair has shown consistency, with Detry’s earlier victory this season and MacIntyre’s solid performances leading up to the Masters.
- Patrick Fishburn & Zac Blair (+8000): As longshots, their fourth-place finish last year and recent form suggest they could surprise the field again.
Fantasy Golf Insights
For those setting fantasy lineups, consider the following:
- Nick Taylor & Adam Hadwin: Their past success at TPC Louisiana, including a second-place finish in 2023, indicates strong course compatibility.
- Davis Riley & Nick Hardy: Winners in 2023, their chemistry and experience in this format could translate into valuable fantasy points.
- Alex & Matt Fitzpatrick: The Fitzpatrick brothers have shown steady improvement, with a T11 finish last year, making them a reliable mid-tier option.
Strategic Betting Tips
- Value Over Favorites: In a format prone to variability, consider teams with odds of +1800 or higher that exhibit strong recent form and synergy.
- Monitor Course History: Teams with a track record at TPC Louisiana may have an edge, especially in navigating the unique team dynamics.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather conditions and any last-minute team changes, as these can significantly impact performance.
As the tournament unfolds, the combination of strategic betting and informed fantasy selections can enhance your engagement with the Zurich Classic. Remember to play responsibly and enjoy the unique challenges this team event presents.
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Scheffler vs. DeChambeau: A Tale of Two Golf Giants
Why Proper Club Fitting Is the Real Game Changer
Zurich Classic 2025: Betting & Fantasy Insights from Kelly Hodgeson
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