Aiming for the top 30 at the British Open

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When it comes to the FedExCup, the players on the PGA TOUR understand one important thing -- finishing the regular season in the top 30 in points is the best way to position themselves for the Playoffs and the $10 million first prize that awaits the champion.

Last year, going into the final event of the Playoffs -- THE TOUR Championship -- six players had a mathematical chance to win the FedExCup. All six were top 30 seeds entering the Playoffs.

Even with the revised point system that is in effect for this season, 12 players -- all top 30 seeds -- would have had a mathematical chance to win the Cup that was eventually claimed by Tiger Woods last year.

Meanwhile, no top 30 seed who made the cut in the first two Playoff events missed THE TOUR Championship, which is limited to 30 players.

Thus, the importance of being in the top 30 cannot be overstated. Here's how it breaks down for those players participating in this week's John Deere Classic. (For more on the FedExCup, click here. For current FedExCup standings, click here.)