Smylie Kaufman eyes another win

The in-form Smylie Kaufman resumes his PGA Tour season at the Sanderson Farms Championship starting Thursday.

Kaufman, 23, claimed his maiden win on the tour in his last appearance, taking out the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open in October.

The American carded an incredible 10-under 61 in his final round in Las Vegas to clinch the title by one stroke.

Kaufman heads to the Country Club of Jackson in Mississippi among the favourites.

Aside from his recent win, he was also tied for 10th at the Frys.com Open.

Canadian defending champion Nick Taylor returns to try and take out the tournament once more.

Taylor has struggled since his maiden tour win, failing to finish in the top 10 this year.

American Patrick Rodgers is in form heading into the stroke-play event.

The 23-year-old has two top-10 finishes in his past four events, while he was tied for 13th at the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open.

Experienced South Korean K.J. Choi is also part of the 132-player field.

"We"ve got a really great mix for the field this year," the tournament's executive director, Steve Jent, said in a statement.

"With the combination of former champions, veteran players and a few PGA Tour rookies, it"ll be interesting to see who gets to hold up the trophy on Sunday."

Jason Bohn and Boo Weekley were tied for second at the event last year and return looking to go one better.