2024 American Express odds, predictions: Best early bets to make for The American Express at PGA West

The PGA Tour makes its way to the continental United States for the first time this year for the 2024 American Express, which gets underway on Thursday, Jan. 18. Taking place at PGA West, the American Express will once again welcome a full field to a trio of golf courses. Last year's winner, Jon Rahm, will not defend his title given his departure to LIV Golf, meaning a new champion will be crowned come Sunday.

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler looks to be keen on entering the winner's circle on the PGA Tour for the first time since the 2023 Players Championship. Hitting the ball well at his season debut at The Sentry, Scheffler held the 36-hole lead before back tracking over the weekend at Kapalua en route to a top-five effort. He has cashed three top 25s in four starts in Palm Springs, including a podium finish in his first outing.

Scheffler is followed closely by a pair of his U.S. Ryder Cup teammates in Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay at +900. The Californians both went winless in 2023 and have eyes on changing this sooner rather than later. Justin Thomas makes his season debut after missing the FedEx Cup Playoffs last year and begins the week as the fourth betting favorite at +2000.

2024 American Express odds leaders

• Scottie Scheffler: +550
• Patrick Cantlay: +900
• Xander Schauffele: +900
• Justin Thomas: +2000
• Min Woo Lee: +2500
• Sungjae Im: +2500

So which 2024 American Express players should you target or avoid? And which player could bring a MASSIVE payday? ... Join SportsLine right now to see Patrick McDonald's best value picks