Tiger Woods makes his return this week after a three month layoff and all eyes will be on him as he tees it up on a course he’s owned over the years. Seven victories at this event and only one finish outside of the top 10. Not too shabby. He’s also got new chin whiskers and a new caddy by his side so it will be interesting to watch that dynamic. Hunter Mahan is the returning champ to Firestone. Mahan had a very good start to the season but has since cooled over the past couple months. Firestone Country Club (South Course) plays a long 7,400 yards and is the longest par 70 on the schedule, so look for the bombers to potentially play well there.
There’s certainly a lot of temptation this week to go with Tiger Woods. The man has won the event a record seven times, so it’s pretty tough to argue against it. I just can’t bring myself to do it yet. Instead I’ll be starting Dustin Johnson. With his length he should be able to capitalize on the long course. He obviously played well at the British, and has played well over in Europe leading up to this week.
I really wish I could start Steve Stricker, and if you have enough starts with him, I recommend doing so. I have one start left and I’m trying to pick the best opportunity for it. Most likely the PGA. Instead I’ll be starting Charl Schwartzel and Bo Van Pelt. Van Pelt has been heating up as of late, just as he did at this time last year. He also took 3rd place here a year ago.
There are a lot of good options within the C group this week. It’s definitely hard to not go with Rory McIlroy despite his average showing at the British. With a T9 here last year Rory is definitely a threat to go low this week. The back up was a tough choice, trying to decide over Martin Kaymer or Adam Scott. Scott gets the nod as the backup and I’m hoping I won’t even have to use him.
Starting Foursome: Dustin Johnson, Charl Schwartzel, Bo Van Pelt, Rory McIlroy
On the Bench: Nick Watney, Bill Haas, Jeff Overton, Adam Scott
For more posts by Jeff Palopoli, visit his blog at www.goodwalkgolf.com
About Jeff Palopoli
Web marketer, father, husband, and golf blogger continually searching for the golf game I used to have.
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