5 Sleeper Picks That Could Shock the Field at the Charles Schwab Challenge

Are you ready for the unexpected? The Charles Schwab Challenge is set to be another thriller, and while Scottie Scheffler remains the clear favorite, it’s often the under-the-radar contenders who steal the spotlight. This week, we’re looking at five “sleeper” picks who are heating up at just the right time—and who just might blow up your expectations.

If you love bold predictions, fresh talent, and the thrill of high-reward wagers, you’re in the right place.

1. Matti Schmid – The Longshot with the Hot Hand

Odds: +20000 (Outright Winner)
Think Davis Riley last year—he shocked the field with similar odds. Schmid arrives on a strong run, boasting two top-10 finishes in his last three PGA TOUR events. He crushes the ball off the tee, but his real weapon is pinpoint iron play, ranking inside the top 30 for proximity to the hole. If there was ever a time for a breakout win, this is it.

2. Pierceson Coody – The Local Hero

Odds: +1100 (Top 5)
From Plano, Texas, Coody is not just playing close to home—he’s thriving there. While his 2025 PGA TOUR schedule has been limited, he’s made the most of every opportunity, including a T5 at Colonial last year. His stats suggest a player in peak form, especially with 16 of his 20 rounds this season in the red.

3. Michael Thorbjornsen – Quietly Catching Fire

Odds: +700 (Top 10)
The Massachusetts prodigy is rounding into form after a shaky start to the season. With five consecutive made cuts and a co-runner-up at Corales Puntacana, Thorbjornsen is finally playing like the rising star everyone expected. His strong starts are becoming a trend—and that’s exactly what you want in a tournament debutant.

4. Christiaan Bezuidenhout – Steady and Surging

Odds: +240 (Top 20)
Not every sleeper has to be a longshot. Bezuidenhout is a proven commodity at Colonial, with top-20 finishes in two of the last three editions. Known for his superb putting, he also ranked 8th in greens in regulation here last year. He’s not flashy—but he’s reliable, and at these odds, that’s gold.

5. David Ford – The Next Big Thing?

Odds: +450 (Top 20)
The former UNC standout is making his pro debut, but don’t let that fool you. With three straight wins and a runner-up finish on the amateur circuit, Ford is red-hot. Ranked 3rd in the World Amateur Golf Rankings, he’s stepping onto the PGA stage with confidence and serious momentum.