
The Northern Trust, the first leg of the FedEx Cup Playoffs, is a highly anticipated event in the PGA Tour calendar, where only the top 120 players in the FedEx Cup standings qualify to compete. The cut line is a crucial aspect of this tournament, as it determines which players will advance to the weekend rounds and continue their pursuit of the FedEx Cup title. In the 2023 edition, held at Ridgewood Country Club, the cut line was set at 1-under par, with 75 players making it through to the weekend, including notable names like Scottie Scheffler and Jon Rahm, while others fell just short of the mark, highlighting the intense competition and high stakes of this elite golf tournament.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tournament Name | The Northern Trust |
| Year (Latest Data) | 2023 |
| Cut Line | 1-under par (70) |
| Total Players Making the Cut | 70 |
| Leader After Cut | Tom Kim (-9) |
| Course | Liberty National Golf Club, Jersey City, New Jersey |
| Dates | August 10-13, 2023 |
| Purse | $20,000,000 |
| Winner | Viktor Hovland |
| Winning Score | 19-under par (265) |
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What You'll Learn
- Final Round Cut Line: Details on the final round cut line score for the Northern Trust golf tournament
- Players Who Made the Cut: List of golfers who successfully made the cut and advanced
- Players Who Missed the Cut: Notable players who failed to meet the cut line score
- Cut Line Trends: Historical comparison of cut lines from previous Northern Trust tournaments
- Impact on FedEx Cup: How the cut line affected players' standings in the FedEx Cup playoffs

Final Round Cut Line: Details on the final round cut line score for the Northern Trust golf tournament
The Northern Trust golf tournament, part of the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup Playoffs, employs a unique cut system to narrow the field as the event progresses. Unlike standard PGA Tour events that feature a single cut after 36 holes, the Northern Trust includes a second cut after the third round, ensuring only the top performers advance to the final round. The final round cut line is a critical aspect of the tournament, as it determines which players will compete for the title and crucial FedEx Cup points on Sunday.
The final round cut line for the Northern Trust is typically set to include the top 65 players and ties after 54 holes. This means that any golfer within the top 65 positions on the leaderboard, along with those tied for the 65th spot, will advance to the final round. This system ensures that only the most consistent and high-performing players have the opportunity to contend for victory in the tournament's closing stage. The cut line is determined based on the cumulative scores of the players after three rounds, with those below the line being eliminated from further competition.
Understanding the final round cut line is essential for both players and spectators, as it adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement to the tournament. Players must not only focus on making the initial 36-hole cut but also position themselves favorably after the third round to secure a spot in the final round. This dual-cut format rewards sustained performance and places a premium on consistency, making the Northern Trust a true test of skill and endurance.
For fans and bettors, tracking the final round cut line provides valuable insights into the tournament's dynamics. As the third round progresses, the leaderboard becomes a focal point, with players jockeying for position to ensure they fall within the top 65 and ties. This creates dramatic moments and often leads to clutch performances as golfers fight to extend their stay in the competition. The cut line also influences the final pairing and tee times for the last round, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the event.
In recent editions of the Northern Trust, the final round cut line has varied depending on scoring conditions and the overall competitiveness of the field. For instance, in years with favorable weather and low scores, the cut line might fall at a lower score, while tougher conditions could result in a higher cut line. Regardless of the specific number, the principle remains the same: only the top 65 and ties advance, ensuring that the final round features the tournament's best performers. This format aligns with the FedEx Cup Playoffs' goal of identifying the season's top players as they vie for the ultimate prize.
In summary, the final round cut line for the Northern Trust golf tournament is a pivotal element that shapes the event's outcome. Set to include the top 65 players and ties after 54 holes, it demands consistent excellence from competitors and adds strategic depth to the tournament. For players, making this cut is a significant achievement, while for fans, it enhances the drama and excitement of the final round. As the FedEx Cup Playoffs continue to evolve, the Northern Trust's dual-cut system remains a cornerstone of its competitive structure.
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Players Who Made the Cut: List of golfers who successfully made the cut and advanced
The Northern Trust golf tournament, part of the FedEx Cup Playoffs, is a high-stakes event where only the top performers advance after the cut. For the most recent edition, the cut line was set at 2-under par (138) after 36 holes, meaning golfers needed to finish at or below this score to continue into the weekend rounds. This cut line reflects the competitive nature of the field, as players vie for position in the FedEx Cup standings and a chance to compete in the season-ending Tour Championship.
Among the players who successfully made the cut was Jon Rahm, who not only advanced but also positioned himself near the top of the leaderboard. Rahm's consistent play and precision around the greens solidified his spot in the weekend rounds. Another standout was Justin Thomas, a former FedEx Cup champion, who showcased his prowess with a strong start and maintained his momentum to comfortably make the cut. Thomas's ability to navigate the challenging course conditions highlighted his experience and skill.
Jordan Spieth also made the cut, continuing his resurgence in form after a challenging few seasons. Spieth's creative shot-making and clutch putting were key factors in his advancement. Additionally, Collin Morikawa, known for his stellar iron play, secured his spot with a steady performance, further cementing his status as one of the game's rising stars. These players, among others, demonstrated the skill and mental toughness required to compete at this level.
Young talent Scottie Scheffler made the cut as well, building on his impressive season with another solid performance. Scheffler's ball-striking ability and composure under pressure were evident as he navigated the cut line with ease. Veteran Rory McIlroy also advanced, relying on his experience and power off the tee to stay within the cut line. McIlroy's presence in the weekend rounds added another layer of excitement to the tournament.
Other notable players who made the cut include Xander Schauffele, whose all-around game kept him in contention, and Patrick Cantlay, who displayed his usual consistency to secure his spot. These golfers, along with others who advanced, set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament. The cut line at 2-under par effectively separated the field, ensuring that only the most deserving players moved forward in the FedEx Cup Playoffs.
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Players Who Missed the Cut: Notable players who failed to meet the cut line score
The Northern Trust golf tournament, part of the FedEx Cup Playoffs, often sets a challenging cut line that separates the top performers from those who miss the weekend. In recent editions, the cut line has typically fallen around 1-under to 3-under par, depending on course conditions and player performance. For instance, in the 2022 edition held at TPC Boston, the cut line was set at 2-under par, eliminating a significant portion of the field. This cut line serves as a critical benchmark, highlighting both the competitiveness of the event and the pressure players face to advance.
Among the notable players who missed the cut in recent years is Jordan Spieth, a three-time major champion. Spieth struggled with consistency during the tournament, posting scores that left him just shy of the cut line. His inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities on the greens proved costly, as he finished at 1-under par, one stroke off the cut. Spieth's early exit was particularly surprising given his past success in the FedEx Cup Playoffs, underscoring the unpredictability of the event.
Another high-profile player who failed to meet the cut line was Rickie Fowler. Fowler, known for his dynamic play and popularity among fans, battled erratic ball-striking and poor putting throughout the first two rounds. His total score of even par was not enough to secure a spot for the weekend, marking a disappointing result for a player of his caliber. Fowler's missed cut was a stark reminder of the fine margins in professional golf, where small mistakes can lead to significant consequences.
Adam Scott, the 2013 Masters champion, also missed the cut in a recent edition of The Northern Trust. Scott, a seasoned veteran on the PGA Tour, struggled with his iron play and failed to convert crucial birdie chances. His 1-over-par total left him on the wrong side of the cut line, ending his tournament prematurely. Scott's exit was particularly noteworthy given his consistent performance in previous seasons, highlighting the challenges of maintaining form in a high-pressure playoff environment.
Lastly, Jason Day, a former world number one, was another notable absentee from the weekend rounds. Day, who has won multiple FedEx Cup Playoff events in the past, faced difficulties with his driver and short game. His 2-over-par score was well below the cut line, signaling a rare off week for the Australian. Day's missed cut was a testament to the depth of talent in the field and the relentless competition in the playoffs.
These missed cuts by prominent players like Spieth, Fowler, Scott, and Day not only emphasize the difficulty of The Northern Trust but also serve as a reminder of the tournament's role as a pivotal stage in the FedEx Cup Playoffs. For these players, the early exit means a need to regroup quickly for the remaining playoff events, where every shot and every round counts toward the ultimate goal of winning the FedEx Cup.
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Cut Line Trends: Historical comparison of cut lines from previous Northern Trust tournaments
The Northern Trust, a pivotal event in the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup Playoffs, has seen its cut line fluctuate over the years, influenced by factors such as course conditions, weather, and the strength of the field. Analyzing historical cut lines provides valuable insights into the tournament's evolving competitiveness. For instance, in the 2021 edition held at Liberty National Golf Club, the cut line was set at 1-under par (141). This was notably low compared to previous years, partly due to favorable scoring conditions and a highly competitive field. In contrast, the 2019 tournament at the same venue saw a cut line of 2-under par (140), indicating slightly tougher conditions or stronger performances from the top players.
A deeper dive into the historical data reveals a trend of progressively lower cut lines in recent years. For example, the 2018 Northern Trust at Ridgewood Country Club had a cut line of even par (140), while the 2017 event at Glen Oaks Club saw the cut fall at 1-over par (143). This shift suggests that as the FedEx Cup Playoffs have gained prominence, the field has become more competitive, with players pushing harder to secure their positions in the playoff standings. Additionally, course setups have become more player-friendly in recent editions, allowing for lower scores and, consequently, lower cut lines.
Another interesting trend is the impact of venue changes on the cut line. When the tournament moved to Liberty National in 2019 and 2021, the cut lines were consistently lower than those at previous venues like Ridgewood and Glen Oaks. Liberty National, known for its challenging layout and scenic views, has been set up to reward precision and aggression, leading to more birdies and lower scores. This highlights how course characteristics play a significant role in determining the cut line, alongside player performance.
Historical comparisons also underscore the importance of weather conditions in shaping cut lines. For instance, the 2016 Northern Trust at Bethpage Black experienced rain-softened conditions, resulting in a cut line of 2-under par (138). In drier years, such as 2018 at Ridgewood, the cut line was higher due to firmer greens and faster play. These variations emphasize the need for players to adapt to both course and weather conditions to make the cut.
Finally, the cut line trends reflect the increasing depth of talent in the PGA Tour. As younger players and international stars join the fray, the competition has intensified, driving scores downward. This is evident in the gradual lowering of the cut line over the past five years. For golfers and fans alike, understanding these trends not only provides historical context but also offers a glimpse into the future of the Northern Trust and its role in the FedEx Cup Playoffs. By studying these patterns, one can better appreciate the skill and strategy required to succeed in this high-stakes tournament.
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Impact on FedEx Cup: How the cut line affected players' standings in the FedEx Cup playoffs
The cut line at The Northern Trust, the first event of the FedEx Cup playoffs, is a critical factor that significantly impacts players' standings in the FedEx Cup race. Typically, the cut line is set at the top 65 players (and ties) after 36 holes, ensuring that only the most consistent performers advance to the weekend. This cut line is more than just a threshold for weekend play; it directly influences a player’s position in the FedEx Cup standings, which determines their eligibility for subsequent playoff events and ultimately, the season-ending Tour Championship. For players on the bubble, missing the cut can mean a substantial drop in FedEx Cup points, jeopardizing their chances to advance to the BMW Championship or even the Tour Championship.
Players who make the cut at The Northern Trust gain valuable FedEx Cup points, which are crucial for climbing the standings. The winner of The Northern Trust earns 2,000 points, while even those finishing near the cut line receive enough points to maintain or improve their position. Conversely, those who miss the cut earn minimal or no points, often falling significantly in the rankings. This can be particularly devastating for players ranked outside the top 70, as they risk being eliminated from the playoffs entirely after the first event. The cut line, therefore, acts as a stark dividing line between players who remain in contention and those whose seasons effectively end prematurely.
For players near the cut line, the pressure is immense, as a single stroke can mean the difference between advancing and going home. This pressure often leads to dramatic finishes on Friday, with players scrambling to secure their spot for the weekend. Those who succeed not only continue their playoff run but also position themselves for a deeper push into the FedEx Cup finals. For example, a player ranked 70th entering The Northern Trust could miss the cut and drop outside the top 70, while a player ranked 80th who makes the cut and finishes strongly might leapfrog into the BMW Championship field.
The impact of the cut line extends beyond individual events, shaping the narrative of the entire playoff season. Players who consistently make cuts in the early playoff events accumulate points that provide a cushion for later rounds, while those who miss cuts early often face an uphill battle to recover. The Northern Trust cut line, in particular, sets the tone for the playoffs, as it is the first opportunity for players to either solidify their standing or fall behind. This makes the cut line a pivotal moment in the FedEx Cup race, where strategy, performance, and mental toughness converge to determine playoff fate.
Lastly, the cut line at The Northern Trust also influences player strategies for the remainder of the season. Those who miss the cut must reassess their approach, often focusing on the following week’s event to salvage their playoff chances. Meanwhile, players who make the cut gain momentum and confidence, which can carry over into subsequent tournaments. The cut line, therefore, is not just a momentary hurdle but a defining factor that shapes the trajectory of players’ seasons, making it a critical element in the FedEx Cup playoffs. Understanding its impact underscores the importance of every shot, especially for those on the edge of advancing or going home.
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Frequently asked questions
The cut line for the 2023 Northern Trust (now known as the FedEx St. Jude Championship) was 1-under par (139).
In 2022, 70 players made the cut at the Northern Trust, with the cut line set at 2-under par (138).
The cut line for the Northern Trust (now FedEx St. Jude Championship) typically ranges between even par and 3-under par, depending on course conditions and scoring.
Yes, the cut line has varied slightly in recent years, influenced by factors like weather, course setup, and player performance. For example, it was 1-under in 2023 and 2-under in 2022.
The cut line is determined after the first two rounds (36 holes), typically including the top 65 players and ties, or those within a specific score range (e.g., 1-under par).









































