The Masters 2008!

My favorite time of the year is upon us...and no...I don't mean the American Idol Finale. Alas, it is time for the greatest sports event of the year...The Masters tournament. I wrote last year about the special nature of the thing...with a brief description of the course...so, I'm not going to repeat myself. Except to say...this year we are looking for a little rain...possibly a good deal of rain...during the tourney, and this could change the entire character and outcome. Here is a brief list/summary of those who should contend for the green jacket:

1. Tiger Woods. I could write an entire post on his chances here...but let's just say that, if Tiger doesn't win...that might be as big a story as who actually does win. That is how dominant he has been. Remember...if he is putting...it is over.

2. Geoff Ogilvy. This guy has really played well of late, and could very well win. Don't be surprised if he is there on Sunday afternoon.

3. Zach Johnson. The defending champion continues to be a crowd favorite...and win a few things. It is doubtful, statistically and historically, that he would win....but....

4. Phil Mickelson. 2 green jackets in 4 years prove that he can win here. Still...Tiger is all in his head...as is his melt down a few years ago at Shinnecock Hills. He's got the game....and the mental deamons to boot. If he plays within himself, he has a shot(ha.)

5. The Usual Suspects. Goosen, Els, Singh, Harrington, Olazabal, Furyk....all these guys are in on a leader board somewhere in the world...on any given week. They have the game to win...but do they have the game to beat Augusta...and Tiger.

6. The Europeans and Australians. Rose, Poulter, Scott, Westwood...it has been said of all of these folks that "it is only a matter of time". Meaning, they can win....and should have a breakout win sooner than later. Of these guys..I would give the nod to Poulter and Scott as the possible Sunday players(ha, again).

7. Sentimental favorite: Fred Couples. Perennial fan favorite...with a non-chalant swing and attitude...and very bad back...Boom Boom played well last week....does the '92 champ have enough left? Man...wouldn't that be something...