Harris English vs. Gary Woodland

Gary Woodland won the 2019 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach, and that distinction earns him automatic respect in any national championship field. But U.S. Open champions are judged by current form, not past titles, and Woodland's ball-striking in 2026 has not approached the level this analysis at Shinnecock demands of a serious head-to-head competitor. Harris English has been the more reliable player this season, showing stronger consistency from tee to green and better approach numbers across varying conditions. Shinnecock places an enormous premium on approach precision. The fairways look generous on a course flyover but narrow dramatically under championship pressure, and the ability to control spin from varying lies separates rounds. English carries a significant favorite price here, and the juice is steep. The underlying case still holds. English is the right call.