Preview and Picks While betting on the heavy favorite can feel like a safe play, it is no slam dunk this year. While Essential Quality may well win the race—and is my midweek pick—there is room for doubt. The Blood-Horse, though, the colt hasn't been particularly impressive during prerace prep. "He has not amazed in his drills at Churchill leading up to the Derby," King wrote. "It is his race record that stands out." Rock Your World will break directly next to Essential Quality and should have just as good of a chance of taking home the victory. For bettors, his 5-1 odds should be more enticing.