Saturday morning golf take - January 11th, 2025 edition

The weekend is setting up nicely at the 2025 Sony Open in Hawaii.

Here are some of my hot takes from seeing the tournament so far:

The Views

Yes, I am leading with a non-golf related take. Good lord, this place, Waialae Country Club, nestled between mountains and the ocean, is stunning. The drone shots from above this place, and near the ocean. Awesome. 

The Golf

17 players within 3 shots of the lead leaves this tournament wide open. And you have some absolute dogs lurking a little further behind (Hideki 6 shots back). 

Things I'm watching for

Can McCarthy break through? Denny McCarthy hasn't won on the PGA Tour yet. Two runner up finishes in his now 8th year on tour. Is this the week?

How about those Dawgs?

As in, Georgia Bulldogs. Sepp Straka (2 back at -8), Russell Henley, (3 back at -7), Brian Harman, (3 back at -7).

How do these guys play this weekend? They all have the pedigree to get this done.

Can Zach Johnson get in contention down the stretch?

Quite a story this would be. Course is set up perfect for him. Can he putt well enough to keep himself in contention? 

Hasn't won since 2015 Open Championship on tour. Ending a 10 year drought at age 48 would be a hell of a story.