📍 Introduction: PGA Tour Heads to TPC Deere Run
The John Deere Classic 2025 returns this week as the PGA Tour descends on TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois, from July 3 to July 6. With a prize purse of $8.4 million and 500 FedEx Cup points up for grabs, this midsummer tournament is one of the most anticipated non-major events of the year.
As fans gear up to watch the action unfold, this preview covers everything you need to know — from how to stream live, full Round 1 tee times, featured players like Ben Griffin and Davis Thompson, to a breakdown of the scenic TPC Deere Run layout.
📺 How to Watch the John Deere Classic 2025
🔹 TV Broadcast Schedule (All Times Eastern)
- Thursday, July 3: 7:45 a.m. ET (PGA Tour Live on ESPN+), TV coverage from 4–7 p.m. ET (Golf Channel)
- Friday, July 4: 7:45 a.m. ET (ESPN+), TV from 4–7 p.m. ET (Golf Channel)
- Saturday, July 5: 8:00 a.m. ET on ESPN+ | 1–3 p.m. ET (Golf Channel), 3–6 p.m. ET (CBS)
- Sunday, July 6: Final round begins at 8:00 a.m. ET (ESPN+), TV from 1–6 p.m. ET split between Golf Channel & CBS
🔹 Streaming Platforms
- Disney+ and ESPN+: Main coverage, featured groups, marquee players
- Paramount+ (CBS): Final weekend rounds
- NBC Sports App: Simulcasts of Golf Channel broadcasts
🔗 Watch PGA Tour Live on ESPN+
🔗 John Deere Classic TV Schedule – Golf.com
🕒 Full Round 1 Tee Times – July 3, 2025
Here’s a look at notable Thursday tee times (in Central Daylight Time):
| ⛳ Featured Groups | Tee Time | Hole |
|---|---|---|
| Ben Griffin, Aldrich Potgieter, Michael Thorbjornsen | 1:00 p.m. CDT | 1 |
| Davis Thompson, Sungjae Im, J.T. Poston | 8:20 a.m. CDT | 10 |
| Jason Day, Rickie Fowler, Denny McCarthy | 2:10 p.m. CDT | 1 |
Full field tee times available at:
🔗 John Deere Classic Round 1 Groupings (PDF)
🏌️♂️ Players to Watch at John Deere Classic 2025
⭐ Ben Griffin – The Betting Favorite
Currently sitting atop the FedEx Cup standings, Ben Griffin comes in hot with multiple top-10 finishes this season. Ranked #17 in the world, he’s the +1600 betting favorite this week and the centerpiece of many fantasy lineups. Griffin’s accuracy off the tee and consistent putting make him a serious contender at TPC Deere Run.
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🏆 Davis Thompson – Defending Champion
Last year, Davis Thompson lit up TPC Deere Run with a record-setting 28-under 256, the lowest 72-hole score in tournament history. He returns in 2025 to defend his title and prove that his dominant 2024 finish wasn’t a fluke.
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🧨 Aldrich Potgieter – Breakout Rookie
At just 20 years old, Aldrich Potgieter recently claimed his first PGA Tour title and is quickly becoming a breakout name of the 2025 season. His powerful swing and fearless approach could shake up the leaderboard again.
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🕶️ Other Notables
- Jason Day: Veteran favorite, top 25 in most betting markets
- Rickie Fowler: Back at John Deere for the first time since 2010
- Sungjae Im: Strong all-around player, deadly on approach shots
- Michael La Sasso (Ole Miss) & Luke Clanton (Amateur): Rising stars with something to prove
🏞️ TPC Deere Run: Course Overview
Located on the banks of the Rock River, TPC Deere Run is a par-71 course stretching 7,289 yards. The layout offers a mix of risk-reward par 5s, tight landing zones, and picturesque greens that make it both scenic and strategic.
🔹 Signature Holes
- Hole #16 – “Mother Earth”: A stunning par-3 surrounded by trees and river views
- Hole #18 – “Conquistador”: Demands precision off the tee for a successful closing
- Hole #12 – “Master Stroke”: Long par-3 with bunkers and swirling wind
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💰 Prize Money & FedEx Cup Points
The 2025 John Deere Classic offers a total purse of $8.4 million, with the winner receiving:
- $1.512 million in prize money
- 500 FedEx Cup points
- Strong consideration for Open Championship and PGA Playoffs exemptions
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📊 Betting Odds & Fantasy Tips
While Ben Griffin leads betting boards, several value picks are catching analyst attention:
- Adam Hadwin (+2200)
- Max Homa (+2500)
- Michael Thorbjornsen (great DFS value pick)
For fantasy players: build around Griffin or Im as anchors and pair with lower-cost rookies like Potgieter or La Sasso.
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🧭 Final Thoughts: Why This Tournament Matters
While the John Deere Classic may not carry major championship weight, it’s long been a launchpad for young stars, a fan-favorite for Midwestern crowds, and a staple of summer golf viewing. With big names, rising talent, and record-chasing storylines, the 2025 edition promises to be one of the best yet.
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