The 2025 BMW Championship will be played at Caves Valley Golf Club in Maryland from August 14–17. This is the second event of the FedEx Cup Playoffs, with only the top 50 players in the standings eligible to compete. After this week, only the top 30 will advance to the Tour Championship at East Lake in Atlanta.
Scottie Scheffler enters as the betting favorite at +230, followed by Rory McIlroy at +700 in his return after skipping last week. Keegan Bradley is the defending champion, while Patrick Cantlay won the last BMW Championship played at Caves Valley in 2021. Other contenders include Tommy Fleetwood, Xander Schauffele, Justin Thomas, and J.J. Spaun, who all bring strong recent form into the event. Bettors can follow the action and manage their plays with the tools at WagerHome.
Scheffler Preview – Staying on Top
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler continues his consistent play after finishing tied for third at the FedEx St. Jude Championship. His ball striking remains among the best on Tour, ranking near the top in strokes gained tee-to-green and approach. Scheffler’s ability to avoid mistakes and stay in contention every week has made him the man to beat all season.
This week’s layout at Caves Valley should reward his accuracy and precise iron play. Scheffler has been strong in par-5 scoring, which will be critical on a course that offers multiple birdie chances. His putting has improved in recent months, adding another weapon to his game.
With the Tour Championship on the horizon, Scheffler can lock in the No. 1 seed heading into East Lake with a strong result here. He will look to control the tournament from the start and make it hard for others to catch up.
McIlroy Preview – Returning Fresh
Rory McIlroy skipped the FedEx St. Jude Championship to rest, but he remains second in the FedEx Cup standings. His last start came at The Open Championship, where he finished tied for seventh. He is also the reigning Masters champion, adding confidence to his game this season.
McIlroy’s distance off the tee will be an advantage at Caves Valley. In his previous start at this venue in 2021, he was in contention before fading late, but the course fits his aggressive style. If his wedge play is sharp, he can post the low rounds needed to win.
With odds of +700, McIlroy is the top threat to Scheffler. A victory this week would set him up for a chance at his fourth career FedEx Cup title next week.
Other Contenders Preview – Strong Field Ready to Challenge
Tommy Fleetwood comes in at +2000 after another close call last week, finishing just outside a playoff at TPC Southwind. He has five top-10 finishes this season, including a runner-up at the Travelers Championship. His iron play and accuracy off the tee give him a chance to contend again, but closing out tournaments remains his hurdle.
Xander Schauffele also sits at +2000 and has shown improved form in recent events after a slow start to the season. He is a two-time major champion and ranks highly in strokes gained putting over the past two months. Schauffele’s steady game under pressure could make him a factor on Sunday.
Justin Thomas (+2200) brings elite birdie-making ability to a course that could require scores near 25-under to win. He ranks fourth on Tour in birdie or better percentage and is coming off a week where he gained strokes in every key category. If he can keep his driver under control, he will be dangerous.
Longshots to Watch
J.J. Spaun (+3000) has been one of the surprise players of 2025, with six top-10 finishes, including a win at the U.S. Open. He also pushed Justin Rose to three playoff holes last week before falling short. Spaun ranks seventh on Tour in total strokes gained and sixth in strokes gained approach.
Kurt Kitayama (+6000) is another player in strong form, with four top-15 finishes in his last five starts, including a win at the 3M Open. He ranks third on Tour in birdie or better percentage, which will be key on this layout. His confidence is high, and his odds make him appealing for bettors.
Harry Hall (+6500) is the best putter in the field, gaining over one stroke per round on the greens. He has finished T28 or better in ten straight starts, and if his ball striking improves, he could be a surprise contender this week.
PPH Betting Prediction
Scheffler’s form makes him the most reliable choice, but his short odds limit the betting value. McIlroy’s rest and history of strong play in big events make him a prime pick at +700. Cantlay at +2200 offers good value given his two BMW wins and comfort at Caves Valley. Thomas at +2200 also fits well for a birdie-heavy tournament.
Expect low scores again, with a winning total near 25-under. Players who excel in birdie conversion and avoid bogeys will have the best chance. For more betting tools, trends, and bookmaking resources, visit WagerHome to start your own PPH bookie service today.
Pick: McIlroy +700, Cantlay +2200, Thomas +2200
