2025 Masters: Scheffler Leads, McIlroy Pursues Glory

The 2025 Masters is approaching, with Scottie Scheffler favored to defend his title and Rory McIlroy seeking his first green jacket. Let's dive into the latest odds and predictions for Augusta National.

Key Takeaways:

• Scottie Scheffler leads the odds at +400 to repeat as Masters champion
• Rory McIlroy follows at +650, chasing his career grand slam
• SportsLine's model predicts surprises from longshots at 20-1 odds or higher

As the azaleas prepare to bloom at Augusta National, the golfing world turns its attention to the 2025 Masters. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler enters as the betting favorite, but a star-studded field is hot on his heels.

Scheffler, the world's top-ranked player, sits atop the oddsboard at +400 to claim his third green jacket in four years. The Texan's dominant performance in 2024 has bookmakers wary, but history isn't on his side – no player has successfully defended their Masters title since Tiger Woods in 2001-02.

Rory McIlroy, eternally in pursuit of the career grand slam, is the second choice at +650. The Northern Irishman's quest for a green jacket has become one of golf's most compelling narratives, and his recent victories at Pebble Beach and The Players Championship suggest he's peaking at the right time.

Jon Rahm (+1400), Collin Morikawa (+1600), and last year's runner-up Ludvig Åberg (+1800) round out the top contenders. Bryson DeChambeau, at +2000, has emerged as BetMGM's biggest liability, attracting 9.5% of the handle.

While the favorites dominate discussions, savvy punters are eyeing potential value further down the board. Adam Scott, the 2013 champion, lurks at 130-1 after a solid 22nd place finish last year.

SportsLine's predictive model, which has correctly called 13 majors including the last three Masters, sees potential for fireworks from longshots. The model has identified four golfers with odds of 20-1 or longer who could make serious runs at the green jacket.

As we approach Masters week, the betting markets will continue to fluctuate. Scottie Scheffler's odds have already tightened from +480 over the weekend to the current +400. McIlroy is garnering significant action, accounting for 14.8% of the handle at BetMGM.

For those looking to get in on the action, many sportsbooks are offering enticing promotions for new users. However, before locking in any Masters picks or entering DFS contests, it's crucial to consider all angles – including the insights from proven models like SportsLine's.

The stage is set for another memorable Masters. Will Scheffler etch his name alongside the game's greats with a successful title defense? Can McIlroy finally complete his grand slam? Or will we see a surprise champion emerge from the azaleas on Sunday afternoon? The beauty of Augusta National is that anything can happen – and often does.