Hole 17 at TPC at Deere Run
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 557 yds
- Stroke index
- 10
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 40 yds deep × 39 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 557 yards
The plan for No. 17
The 17th hole at TPC at Deere Run serves as the penultimate test before golfers face the famous finishing stretch at this John Deere Classic venue. This straight par 5 stretches 557 yards and presents a strategic challenge with its relatively open layout that can deceive players into aggressive play. The tee shot demands precision to find the optimal position for the crucial second shot, as the hole's straightforward appearance masks subtle strategic nuances. With no major hazards guarding the fairway, length and accuracy become paramount for setting up a realistic birdie opportunity. The small green complex requires a well-executed approach shot, making course management essential. As the stadium hole atmosphere builds anticipation for the dramatic 18th, this par 5 offers one final chance to gain strokes before the tournament's climactic finish.
Off the tee
Off the tee, accuracy takes precedence over raw distance. With a generous fairway and no significant hazards threatening the landing area, most players should favor their most reliable driver or 3-wood to ensure finding the short grass. The target line should favor the center of the fairway, allowing for natural shot dispersion while maintaining optimal angles for the second shot. Longer hitters may consider throttling back slightly to ensure proper positioning rather than trying to maximize distance, as course management becomes crucial on this scoring hole.
Approach & recovery
The second shot presents the hole's primary strategic decision point. Players must evaluate whether to go for the green in two or lay up for a more manageable third shot. Given the small green size, only confident ball-strikers with favorable lies should attempt to reach in two. For most players, a well-positioned lay-up to about 80-100 yards provides the best scoring opportunity, allowing for a full wedge shot with optimal spin control. When laying up, target the center-left portion of the fairway to create the best angle into the small green.
On the green
The compact green demands precision and proper speed control. With limited surface area, approach shots must be struck with confidence and commitment to the chosen target. Pin position becomes critical - when the flag is tucked, aim for the center of the green and rely on putting rather than forcing a risky approach. The small target rewards players who can control their wedge distances precisely, making practice with scoring clubs essential for success on this hole. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision centers on the second shot. Going for the green in two offers birdie or eagle potential but carries significant risk given the small target. The safer play - laying up for a wedge third shot - still provides excellent birdie chances while virtually eliminating big numbers. Wind conditions and pin position should heavily influence this decision, with aggressive play warranted only under ideal circumstances. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low-handicap players** should view this as a prime birdie opportunity, often choosing to lay up strategically for optimal wedge distance. Their superior short game skills make the three-shot approach highly effective. **High-handicap players** should focus on steady advancement up the hole, using their most reliable clubs and avoiding the temptation to force shots. A conservative approach targeting the center of fairways and green will yield the best results, as the lack of major hazards makes bogey easily avoidable with smart play. The 17th hole rewards patience and precision over power, making it an ideal opportunity to gain strokes on the field through superior course management and execution around the green.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 17 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 9,217 sq ft
How did Hole 17 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 557 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 557 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How big is the green on hole 17?
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The green is large and can play quite long. Three-putt territory if you don't manage your approach distance well.