Golfblogger

There’s lots of players who could win this tournament:

Reitef Goosen
Jim Furyk
Adam Scott
Luke Donald

(to name a few)

Notably off this list: Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson

I don’t believe that Tiger’s game fits well at Oakmont where accuracy will be essential.  Mickelson would have a better chance but he’s got that sore wrist and that will be a concern how that holds up thoughout the week.  If it does....he’s got a great shot at winning the Open.

Who do I think will win?  Ernie Els.  He was the last one to win the Open at Oakmont (1994). Some people believe he isn’t playing well but he really hasn’t been playing too badly (28th on the money list (as of 5/6/07) this year) and he did finish 3rd last year at the British Open, so I think he’s got a chance at this.

That’s why the Open is probably my favorite tournament - the best compete, there’s a level of intensity that seems unmatched by any other tournament and sometimes the unexpected happens.

I’ll add Sergio to the above list. He’s a great ball striker, and I think that’s what this course calls for. Johnny Miller had a similar skill set.

Tiger got off to a good start today. Even though I still think he won’t win he’ll be in the thick of it for sure.

Jim Furyk at +1 is definitely in good shape.

Mickelson played very well in spite of his sore wrist. Even though he’ll probably make the cut he probably won’t contend.

I’m still pulling for Els. He was +3 today but he still could be in the hunt.