Spieth graduates from long-shot status

Not long ago, Jordan Spieth was the definition of a long shot. In August, when odds on the Masters opened at Las Vegas sports books, Spieth’s potential was a rumor

Now, he’s a 20-year-old star tied for the lead going into today’s final round at Augusta National.

Spieth, who earned his only PGA Tour win in the John Deere Classic in July, opened at 100-1 odds to win the Masters at William Hill sports books in August.

“You will never see him at those odds again,” said Jeff Sherman, golf oddsmaker at the LVH sports book.

Sherman posted adjusted odds Saturday night and made Spieth the third choice at 7-2. Bubba Watson, who shares the lead with Spieth at 5 under par through 54 holes, and Matt Kuchar are 5-2 co-favorites.

Kuchar is one stroke back, but the LVH wrote a high volume of tickets on Kuchar, including a wager at 15-1 odds that would pay $50,000.

“I would think the winner is going to be one of three guys — Watson, Spieth or Kuchar. I would be surprised if it’s someone else,” Sherman said. “Kuchar made a charge up the leaderboard, and that’s the one guy we really don’t need.”

Watson closed at 20-1 and Spieth was 30-1 on Thursday. In recent tournaments, Spieth has made a habit of dominating big-name playing partners, including Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Adam Scott, who blew up Saturday by shooting a 76.

Some star attraction is missing without Woods, who withdrew with a back injury, and Phil Mickelson, who missed the cut, and the tournament wagering handle is down around 3 percent from last year, according to Sherman.

But the final round could be compelling. Watson is aiming for his second Masters win in three years. Spieth could be the youngest winner in Masters history.

“Spieth is the guy who almost looks like he has the intimidation factor of Tiger. He has been smoking the top golfers when he’s in a group with those guys,” Sherman said. “I like the kid’s attitude and confidence level.”

Jonas Blixt, tied with Kuchar, is at 12-1 adjusted odds. Rickie Fowler (10-1) and 50-year-old Miguel Angel Jimenez (20-1) are two shots off the lead.

Lee Westwood (12-1) and Jim Furyk (25-1) trail by three shots.

Sherman also posted 10 player matchups that remain open for wagering until the players’ tee times today.

The LVH is also offering live wagering during the final round.

Contact reporter Matt Youmans at myoumans@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2907. Follow him on Twitter: @mattyoumans247.