Power Rankings: The Greenbrier Classic

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Behold The Greenbrier Classic 2.0. The newly named host track -- The Old White TPC -- is expected to fight back after its out-and-out capitulation at last year's inaugural edition when Stuart Appleby crafted the fifth 59 in PGA TOUR history to clip Jeff Overton by one stroke for the title.

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The course ranked sixth in strokes gained-putting, but it was a virtual footrace to the greens. Note where it ranked among all on TOUR in 2010:

• Fourth-longest in average distance off the tee: 302.2 yards

• Eleventh-easiest in fairways hit: 70.52%

• Third-easiest in greens in regulation: 77.24%

The Old White TPC, which plays as a par 34-36=70 (the 12th and 17th holes are par 5s), also checked in at 68.536 on the scorecard, second easiest of the 14 par-70s on the schedule. Since then, the course underwent a significant restoration. All of the greens were reseeded with Bentgrass; they are expected to play firmer as compared with last year's pin cushions. Fairways will be tighter, and the course will play 200 yards longer. In all, 16 of the holes were modified in some way -- which could make it difficult for somebody to shoot a 59 this year.

Because of added length and new greens, the primary objective will be to find the short grass, but ball-strikers in general are benefited. There are still plenty of birdies to be circled, so adjusted scoring average is also a secondary factor to consider when assessing the field of 156.

Early-week rain will move out by Tuesday, allowing for four straight dry days with high temperatures in the low 90s. The threat of storms creeps back into the forecast on the weekend. Winds will be light throughout.

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Power Rankings: The Greenbrier Classic

Rank Player   Comment Sergio GARCIA Incredibly consistent year, with 11 top 25s in 15 starts worldwide. Top 10s in his last three, including the U.S. and British Opens. The ballstriker's ballstriker ranks 30th on the PGA TOUR in the category and fourth in adjusted scoring average. Webb SIMPSON A well-oiled machine. Top 20s in each of his last five starts, including the last two majors. Continues to lead the TOUR in the all-around ranking. Also sits 22nd in greens in regulation and sixth in adjusted scoring average. Phil MICKELSON Took the week off after a relatively disappointing co-runner-up at the British Open. Nevertheless, it was his fifth top 10 in 14 starts. Currently 47th on TOUR in greens hit and 11th in adjusted scoring average. Jeff OVERTON Last year's tough-luck runner-up ranked inside the top 20 in all relevant statistical splits. Also led the field in birdies. Sits 44th on the PGA TOUR in total driving and 33rd in putting. Shared third place at the AT&T National just four weeks ago. Charles HOWELL III On a ridiculous run stateside prior to a T28 at the British Open. In his three previous starts, posted top fives in each and swallowed only 17 over-par holes in 12 rounds. Co-led the field in greens hit here last year en route to a share of ninth place. Spencer LEVIN Bit of a roller-coaster ride at the Canadian Open, but still posted his fourth top 10 of the year; now has top 25s in half of his 22 starts. Ranks 38th on TOUR in greens in regulation and eighth in adjusted scoring average. Brendon DE JONGE Chased a T7 at the John Deere with a T13 at the Viking to regain his consistency. Finished solo third at last year's Greenbrier. Currently leads the PGA TOUR in total birdies; also ranks 77th in greens hit and 52nd in adjusted scoring. D.J. TRAHAN Three of his five top 25s this year have occurred in his last five starts, and he's coming off his only top 10 (T9, Viking). Gets the nod for his irons (26th on TOUR in greens hit) and knack for the low numbers. Pop off the tee doesn't hurt (24th in distance). Brandt SNEDEKER Before missing the British cut by two strokes, posted top 25s in four straight starts. Hits more fairways than greens, but ranks second in putting and 12th in adjusted scoring average. Placed T16 here last year. Chris KIRK Always beware the hangover effect following the breakthrough victory, but the rookie rested following his win at the Viking Classic, which was his third straight top 25. Great fit again this week: 28th on TOUR in greens hit, 47th in adjusted scoring.