FedEx Cup format beneficial to some

NORTON, Mass. — The last guys to get into the FedEx playoffs certainly are holding up their ends of the bargain in making the most of it. Heath Slocum, formerly No. 124, is the poster child for playoff volatility, jumping an amazing 121 spots last week with his victory at The Barclays last week.

Friday at TPC Boston, it was Troy Matteson’s chance to shine. Mr. 125 when the playoffs began, Matteson rose 42 spots last week with his tie for 20th. He opened at Deutsche Bank with a 5-under 66, which tied him for eighth. If he could stay where he is, he would move somewhere near the 50th spot in FedEx points, earning himself yet another start at next week’s BMW Championship.

Playoff fever. Catch it.