2021 Genesis Preview: Riviera Can't Play Any Faster And There Is No Rain In Sight

Riviera is ready but devoid of the usual tournament build out (Geoff Shackelford)

Tiger Woods is hosting but not playing following end-of-2020 back surgery. We might see him Sunday to hand out the stunning trophy and three-year exemption that goes to the $9.3 million Genesis Invitational winner.

Without fans due to the pandemic the parrots and sea breezes will have to provide the ambient noise. But a stellar field with 8 of the world top 10 should put on a stellar show this week. Riviera is immaculate, amazingly firm for this time of year, and drying out as I type thanks to crisp Santa Ana winds.

Brooks Koepka had this to say about the course:

BROOKS KOEPKA: It's as fast and firm as I've ever seen this place. It will be interesting to see what happens. I think scores will be a little bit higher just because you see a couple balls on the greens releasing a little bit more than they have in maybe previous years. I'll tell you what, the greens are flying, so it will be interesting to see, especially if the wind picks up, what they'll do with it; if they slow the greens down a little bit, maybe not cut them, just roll them. It will be interesting to see how the week plays out.

Yes it will!

As for prognosticating, three players with local or Riviera ties who are coming in on form and worth a longshot look: Max Homa, Cameron Tringale and Doug Ghim. The first two are southern Californians, the latter was runner-up in the 2017 U.S. Amateur at Riviera coming off a T5 in the American Express and a T21 last week at Pebble Beach.

Rob Bolton breaks down the field here and puts his money on the big names.

First round play starts at 6:40 am off both tees and here is the full tee time list.

And don’t forget there is significant Golf Channel bonus coverage thanks to PGA Tour Live supplemental coverage. CBS is on for three or so hours each weekend day. Enjoy!

The Genesis Invitational airtimes:

First Round Noon-2 PM, 2-6 PM, 6-8 PM ET Golf Channel (PGA Tour Live bonus coverage)

Second Round 2-6 Golf Channel

Third Round 3:00-6:00 PM (CBS)

Final Round 3:00-6:30 PM (CBS)