Bridgestone Invitational Odds - Tiger will start a winning streak

TIGER WOODS +150
PHIL MICKELSON +1600
RETIEF GOOSEN +2800
JIM FURYK +2800
ANTHONY KIM +3300
PAUL CASEY +3300
STEART CINK +3300
VIJAY SINGH +4000
ERNIE ELS +4000
LUCAS GLOVER +6600

The Bridgestone Invitational odds will be an interesting change of pace for Tiger Woods. He dominated a lollipop golf betting field last week at the Buick Open; can he continue his hot play against a loaded field for this World Golf Championship event?

Bridgestone Invitational odds: Tiger dominates this tournament like few others

• WHAT: The 2009 WGC-Bridgestone Invitational
  
• WHEN: Thursday, August 6 to Sunday, August 9
  
• WHERE: Firestone Country Club in Akron, OH
  
• KEY STAT: Tiger Woods has won six of the last 10 Bridgestone Invitationals
  
• THE PICK: Tiger Woods +150

Tiger is the clear favorite at +150. In fact, after he won last week, his odds to win are even better for Bridgestone Invitational betting then they were for the Buick. He’s a fantastic sports betting pick this week once again. He’s won this tournament a ridiculous six times – all in the last 10 years. He’s never finished worse than fourth here and his long hitting is a nice fit for Firestone Country Club.

We can’t consider Tiger without considering Vijay Singh. Strangely enough, the defending champion isn’t being treated like one in this week’s golf lines, as he offers surprisingly good value at +4000. It’s no surprise that Vijay has a win at Firestone, as he too does lots of damage off the tee. However, odds makers are tempering their expectations since Vijay has no top-five finishes this season. If you’re not feeling Tiger, Vijay’s worth a flier as an underdog.

Phil Mickelson (+1600) returns to the Tour this week after taking several weeks off – and missing the British Open – to be with his ailing wife. His big drives could put him in contention, but he hasn’t cracked the top 10 at Firestone since 2003. He should be a bit rusty; wait until the PGA Championship to bet on him.

Anthony Kim (+3300) is a rock-solid pick this week, as his all-around game is peaking right now. He leads the tour in putts per GIR, ranks second in birdie average, and is always above average in driving distance, so he’s set up to score well here. However, he’s struggled on Sundays all season. Don’t be surprised if he finds himself in the final group – and chokes – once more against Tiger. Overall, his Bridgestone Invitational odds warrant a look.

A couple of long shots who could make noise this week: Paul Casey (+3300) and Lucas Glover (+6600). Both guys are long off the tee and Glover has shown he can excel at difficult courses in 2009. I like Glover better simply because he offers double Casey’s value. Be careful with him, though, as he’s cooled off after a hot June and early July.

MARCO’S PICK: It may seem boring, but Tiger Woods is your man this week. As I’ve said all season, there’s a system to picking Tiger. When a course statistically favors him, he almost always wins. This is one of those weeks when you should swallow your pride and make the safe play.

For full Bridgestone Invitational odds and more betting advice, keep reading the Betting Edge at BetOnline.com.

Marco Sussman isn't too bad on the links, reportedly a five handicap. But, he's great in the sports betting game. He'll watch just about anything you put in front of him, but golf is what really gets his juices flowing. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.