2011 Masters Preview

For as long as I've been a fan of the game of golf, I think I've held The Masters as my favorite sporting event of the year. The purity, magnitude and tradition, along with the confirmation that Spring has arrived, make The Masters the greatest golf tournament in the world. The 75th playing of The Masters (and 26th year of Jim Nantz covering it) will undoubtedly be compelling as the green jacket and the #1 world golf ranking are both up for grabs. And while Spring could bring the rebirth of Tiger's winning ways, there are young careers that could blossom right before our eyes with a Masters win. Without further embarrassing myself with shitty puns, I'll give you my 2011 Masters contenders:

Favorites:

Phil Mickelson: Not a whole lot to say here. Clearly likes the course as evident by his 3 jackets. Hits the long and high drives, putts well and has perfected the "I appear carefree but am totally locked in and kind of a dickhead," look

Lee Westwood: "Westy" as his mates call him, has played very well in recent majors and has had success in Augusta with a runner up finish last year. Laser focus and a big game make him one of the favorites. Looks like Kevin Youkilis.

Nick Watney: This may come as a surprise to a few people but I truly think Watney can win his first major here. 5 top 10's this year along with two rounds in the 60's last year makes me feel good about his chances. Much better at his job than his cousin hers.

In the Hunt:

Matt Kuchar: Former Masters low amateur, Georgia native and overall chill dude, Kuchar has a great shot to be wearing Sunday green. I thought he was the best player on tour last year and he has 6 top 10s this year. One of my favorite players on tour, I'd love for Kuch to get loose out there.

Bubba Watson: Another one of the good guys, Watson absolutely blasts drives, has a nice putting touch and is confident to hit any type of shot. The lefty reminds me a lot of Phil, except Bubba seems like a genuinely nice guy.

Graeme McDowell: I'm not sure if G-Mac was player of the year last year but I hope to hell he was. Was truly impressive winning the US Open and made a crucial putt to win the 2010 Ryder Cup for the Europeans. An avid tweeter and pint swiller, G-Mac will be good for a few good twitpics regardless of the outcome.

Tiger Woods: Always a threat to win the tournament. No personality. His balls tend to stray in to hazards.

Sleepers

Freddie Couples: More of a legit contender, Freddie can easily shoot a round or two in the 60s. The major question: his back. The not-major question: his level of chillness. Best looking swing in the tournament.

Ryan Moore: Another dude from the Pac. Northwest, Moore has two top 15's in 3 starts at Augusta, a storied amateur career and sartorially pays tribute to Master's past. You can tell that he holds this event on a pedestal and would look great rocking a madras tie with his green jacket.

There you have it, friends. As always, feel free to share your take on the tournament. Enjoy the weekend whether you'll be watching or not.

Photo from masters.org