MASTERS 2020

IS THE MASTERS WHAT WE NEED TO SAVE 2020?

2020 sucks. Somehow, we’ve made it to October, and I can’t tell if time is crawling or if it’s flying by. Either way, we need some sort of normalcy back in our lives and I’m relying on the Masters for that. From Nov 12- 15th, even though there won’t be patrons, the Masters will be just as magnificent as it always is. Even if you’re not a golf fan, the Masters brings people together like Christmas without the urge to kill your in-laws. If you’re reading this right now, I bet that you were watching Tiger’s historical win last year at Augusta and remember exactly where you were. It will be different to have the tournament hosted in November, but we expect perfection from Augusta and that’s exactly what we will get. I think what’s even more great is the next two Majors are both the Masters and that might be the best thing I’ve ever heard. To answer the title of this article, yes, the Masters is absolutely what we need to save 2020 and keep us sane for a weekend. 

Here are my picks for Bust, Top-10 Finishers, Dark Horse and Winner.


Bust:

Tiger Woods: There’s no telling what the Masters will bring this year, but last year’s defending champ will not repeat. That’s right, Tiger Woods will not make the cut at the Masters in November. Don’t come for my throat, because I pray that I am wrong. But without patrons and a massive following to give him that adrenaline boost, I don’t see the same spark as last year. His play at the U.S. open was also not an encouraging sight. Granted the fairways were extremely narrow, and rough super thick, he still looked like he had no confidence in where his ball was going. I wouldn’t be surprised if Tiger misses the cut at the Masters, takes some time off, and reignites his game for the Masters again in April 2021. Then again, it is Tiger Woods and he has surprised everyone many times before. Time will tell.


Bryson Dechambeau: He has obviously been playing amazing golf having just captured the U.S. open title. He has confidence in his new body and new game and proved many doubters wrong. However, I see Bryson dealing with frustrations at the Masters and not performing up to his hype heading into it.

Top 10 Finishers:

Rickie Fowler: It seems like this guy is always just lurking around the top of the leaderboard while just being out of reach of the leaders. He has been close a few times and plays Augusta well. His putting is still top on tour and we’ve seen his ability to score low. If Rickie can put four solid rounds together, he may take a peak at that top spot.

Brooks Koepka: Just hard to count this guy out of the majors at this point. Enough said.

Dustin Johnson: Has not won at Augusta, but always seems to be right in the mix at the majors. Coming off some of the greatest golf we’ve seen over a four week period, DJ will continue that high level of play into Augusta. With his nonchalant poise and Paulina waiting at home for him, I wouldn’t bet against this guy.

Xander Schauffele: This guy just hangs around the top 10’s in basically all the majors. His game is solid, and he’s probably one of the most consistent players on tour. Always rises to the occasion and plays well when it matters.

Rory McIlroy: Looking to complete the career grand slam at Augusta. Has been playing good golf, but I don’t see it being the year he gets it. I believe he eventually will get it, but I think some else captures the green jacket in 2020. 

Matthew Wolff: He only has 2 major appearances but he's placed in the top 5th in both. He's got the confidence and swagger to succeed at the PGA level and we've seen glimpses of his greatness already. Look for a strong opening round from Wolff to get him in the hunt for the weekend.



Dark Horse:

Tony Finau: Not sure if this is considered a dark horse because he’s a stud, but Tony Finau is a great pick. We’ve seen the videos of him this year absolutely unleashing his driver and getting upwards of 200mph ball speed. He has been playing great golf since the PGA has returned and has seemed to take a page out of Bryson Dechambeau’s book. He is unleashing his driver a bit more and letting it bomb down the fairway while still maintaining his accuracy. And yes, he just tested positive for COVID-19 but he should be plenty fine by Nov 12th. He has the temperament and skill to win at Augusta and would be a great pick.

Jordan Spieth: I’m putting this here more so because I’m just rooting for the guy at this point. It’s been tough to see such a great player struggle like he has. We all know he loves the Masters more than any other tournament, so hopefully this is the tournament that helps him break out of his funk and get back on track.



Winner:

Justin Thomas: This guy is freakin’ good. He hits the ball a mile and he’s due for another major. He has arguably been the best player on the tour over the last few years and has the capability to run away with tournaments. I think with no guests on the grounds, Justin will lock in and thrive. His ability to hit the long ball paired with his spectacular wedge game is going to put him in a great position to win this tournament. He is a fierce competitor and I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see him putting on the green jacket on Nov 15th.