2026 Charles Schwab Challenge Preview: Can Ben Griffin Defend His Title at Colonial?

The PGA Tour returns to the historic Colonial Country Club for the 2026 Charles Schwab Challenge, a tournament renowned for testing precision over raw power. Following his breakthrough victory last year, Ben Griffin enters the week as the defending champion, facing a field of hungry contenders eager to conquer the tight fairways and undulating greens of this Fort Worth classic. This preview analyzes the strategic demands of the course—including the infamous 'Horrible Horseshoe'—and examines the shifting betting landscape. As players navigate the classic layout, the event serves as a crucial measuring stick for form and mental fortitude midway through the season. With the tournament traditionally favoring tactical ball-strikers, we explore which players are poised for success and how the outcome might shift the balance of the FedEx Cup race. As anticipation builds for the weekend, all eyes turn to Fort Worth to see if history will repeat itself or if a new champion will claim the iconic plaid jacket.