Jordan Spieth and other golfers survived the cut at the John Deere Classic following a second round that saw significant leaderboard movement at TPC Deere Run. While Spieth rallied to finish at 3-under par, the tournament saw the departure of high-profile players including Brian Campbell and Jackson Koivun, as course modifications significantly increased the difficulty of the par-4 fourth hole.
How Course Modifications Are Impacting Scoring
The TPC Deere Run layout has undergone notable changes that have altered player strategy. According to tournament data, the par-4 fourth hole was reconstructed following the removal of the iconic “Hewitt Tree.” The hole was lengthened by 50 yards and now features bunkering 300 yards from the new tee, forcing players to choose between aggressive drives or conservative layups.
The impact on the field has been measurable. In 2025, the hole played to an average of 3.909, ranking as the 10th most difficult on the course. Through the first two rounds of this year’s event, that average climbed to 4.199, making it the second-most challenging hole on the course.
In the previous two years, the TPC Deere Run cut fell at a record-low, 5-under par.
Performance Shifts Among Field Leaders
The second round provided a stark contrast in momentum for the marquee afternoon grouping. Ben Griffin surged up the leaderboard with a 65, moving 40 spots higher. Conversely, Jordan Spieth struggled early, including a bogey on the 10th hole that he attributed to “bad swings” rather than the hole’s difficulty. Spieth eventually stabilized with three back-nine birdies to remain in contention at 3-under.
Eric Cole demonstrated the volatility of the current field, rebounding from a 76 on Thursday to shoot an 8-under 63 on Friday. Cole credited the turnaround to a new set of irons overnighted by PXG, noting he felt he had “nothing to lose” during his performance, which included two eagles.
Who Missed the Cut?
Brian Campbell will not play the weekend after finishing at 1-over 142, four strokes outside the cut line. His exit follows a 1-under 70 in the opening round and a difficult Friday afternoon. Other past John Deere winners, including Dylan Fritelli (2019) and Michael Kim (2013), also failed to qualify for Saturday and Sunday play.
Jackson Koivun, a former top-ranked amateur making his professional debut, also missed the cut. Despite a 1-under 70 that improved upon his first-round score, Koivun failed to replicate the T11 finish he achieved at this event a year ago. He is now scheduled to compete at the ISCO Championship in Louisville, Kentucky.
Watch how players approach the fourth hole throughout the weekend. The decision to challenge the new fairway bunkers versus laying back with longer irons will likely remain a critical factor in determining the final leaderboard positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current cut line at the John Deere Classic?
The cut was established at 3-under par.
Why is the fourth hole at TPC Deere Run playing harder?
The hole was lengthened by 50 yards and the central tree was replaced with bunkers, requiring more precise long-iron shots into a narrow green.
Are most top-ranked players remaining in the field?
Yes. Griffin is one of 10 players in the top 50 of the FedExCup Standings in the field at TPC Deere Run, and all but two of those – Daniel Berger and Sudarshan Yellamaraju – will be among the 80 players who have a Saturday tee time.
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