2026 U.S. Open odds, picks, date: Surprising predictions by golf model that's nailed 17 majors

Article excerpt

SportsLine's predictive model ran 10,000 simulations of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills and identified surprising contenders that diverge from conventional wisdom about the field. The model has correctly called 17 major championships, lending credibility to its picks. The analysis lays out odds, favorites, and dark-horse candidates expected to compete on the Long Island course, which will host the tournament for the third time in its history. The piece combines algorithmic prediction with traditional golf expertise to help bettors and fans identify which players might outperform expectations.