Matt Kuchar vs. Jason Day

In my opinion, the game’s most gifted athletes today are as follows: (1) Rory McIlroy (2) Dustin Johnson and (3) Jason Day. However, as noted, matchups are not arranged on my preconceived notions. They are strictly a reflection of where each player finished on their respective team’s pecking order.

Matt Kuchar and Jason Day have tasted a lot of success this season, and if they do face each other in the President’s Cup, here’s what they bring to the table.

Matt Kuchar, Age: 33, Best major championship finish: T-6 (2010 U.S. Open), President’s Cup ROOKIE

State of the game: He’s a U.S. Amateur champion, who’s early professional plight is well-documented. However, he’s resuscitated his game in recent years, even winning the PGA Tour’s money title in 2010. He followed up a sensational 2010 campaign with a string of top 10’s in 2011. Steady, reliable play has been Kuchar’s trademark–he curtails his highs and lows. He ended 2011 with a career-high nine top 10’s.

Under the gun points: As the 1997 U.S. Amateur winner, you need to give Kuchar a bit of “street cred”. But, pressure induced situations–like major championships–have never been a strength. For whatever reason, he’s amassed only two top-10 finishes in majors. This year, his best finish was a T-14 at the U.S. Open.

Previous cup experience: Limited. In 2010, he looked dashing in the soft purple cardigan (above). Kuchar played surprisingly well in the four ball and alternate shot formats, but severely disappointed in singles. He went 1-0-2 on Friday and Saturday, but faltered 5&4 to Ian Poulter on Sunday. I’d like to think of this mishap as an anomaly, as Kuchar has proven to be a formidable match play opponent. Not only in the U.S. Amateur, but in WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship as well.

Possible alternate shot/four ball partners: Kuchar is a level-headed, thinking man’s player and I think he would fair well with a similar breed. Look  for experienced cuppers Jim Furyk or Steve Stricker to play with him. Speculating even further, I could see other vibrant rookies get the nod. Possibly getting together former Nationwide Tour players Webb Simpson or Nick Watney who maintain cool under fire.

Sunday pole position: This is something that may be determined by the event’s first two days. However, my guess is that Fred Couples sends Kuchar out in the middle of the pack. Strategically, this is a position reserved for momentum swingers. Early matchups set the tone, but the middle of the pack can reverse any damage done. The hammers show up at the end of the day to close it out.

Jason Day, Age: 25, Best major championship finish: 2nd (2011 U.S. Open), President’s Cup ROOKIE

State of the game: After a “second level” season, where Day elevated his marketability and stature, he will  be a force in this year’s matches. Although he didn’t win in 2011, two second place major championship finishes highlighted his season. Day’s easy going demeanor is much of a facade, and the burning competitive spirit lies behind his colorful wardrobe. Playing in the thick of his Aussie compatriots, will undoubtedly help his game.

Under the gun points: Until this season, you couldn’t really analyze the mental aspect of Day’s game. He did win once on the PGA Tour, but was never really pressed in difficult situations. Then again, he still hasn’t. His two second place major finishes were secured well after the tournament champion was virtually announced. Day could stuggle if he’s not placed with the right teammate early on.

Previous cup experience: None.

Possible alternate shot/four ball partners: Although Day seems mild-mannered, I think a dynamic playing partner would complement him aptly. Much like in the explosive Sergio Garcia-Jesper Parnevik pairings of the 1999 Ryder Cup, flare pays off. Day will burst out of his shell if aligned with the right personality. The problem is, however, who to choose? The team is filled with “Big Easy’s”. I think a Japanese-Australian connection is built for success with Ryo Ishikawa.

Sunday pole position: There’s no doubt in my mind that Day should be in the back of the bus. While stalwarts like Ernie Els, Retief Goosen and hometown hero Robert Allenby will probably be glowing with the brightest spotlight, Day will be close by. He has all the tools to supply a big-time performance.

Advantage

Despite the lack of cup experience, Day has the upper hand. He can shift tectonic plates will his potential, and he’s waited all season for a true clutch, fist-pumping moment of arrival. We know he’s got the goods, it’s time to bring ’em out and never look back. I believe this will catapult Day into a enormous 2012.

If you’re counting at home, that’s International 2, USA 0. More to come.

She’s not so bad, either.


2011
11/01
CATEGORY
President's Cup
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Norman vs. Couples

Before we delve into the player matchups, we must first establish the credentials of the captains. So, who ya got? It’s easy to argue with either side of the equation. Both present an interesting case. Both retained their captaincy from the 2009 matches.

Greg Norman, Age: 56, Major titles: 2, Presidents Cup career playing record 7-6-1 (’96, ’98, ’00)

Norman, who has steered his social life away from competitive golf in recent years, has a quality resume for coaching. He also has a penchant for coming up small in big situations. Will his reputation for collapse rub off on his players? Unlikely. Norman has been hardened by his past failures, and it will take a lot for the Shark to come unraveled. As long as he’s not stroking the winning putt, the Internationals need not worry. His decision-making will be made easier by a crop of young brazen Aussies. Jason Day and Adam Scott are playing top-level golf in front of a friendly home gallery. Players who would have otherwise remembered Norman for his ’96 Masters collapse as opposed to his two British Open triumphs (’86, ’93), now have a clearer vision of the chiseled veteran. As a 53-year-old, Norman nearly gripped the Claret Jug for a third time in 2008. He took a two-shot lead into the final round, before being overcome by a sizzling Padraig Harrington. Most players under 30 years old use this as a partial measuring stick for Norman’s legacy.

Norman has also played the role of agitator, providing his opinion on the United States’ team. This isn’t high stakes drama, but certainly does ruffle some feathers. I think it’s been good fuel for Tiger Woods and the Americans, but even better for the Internationals who are bloodthirsty for a milquetoast (or patient) stateside squad.

Fred Couples, Age: 52, Major titles: 1, Presidents Cup career playing record 9-6-1 (’94, ’96, ’98, ’05)

Coming off of a semi-dismantling of the International squad in 2009, it will be difficult to question Couples’ rationale. Pairings will most likely resemble successes of two years ago. However, with six rookies on board, nerves will be tested. Couples will need to play to the comforts of his underclassmen, while not upsetting the veteran leadership. It will be a tight rope to walk. The International team has only won the event once (’98), but this year many pundits have the United States as they underdogs. The Americans will have to contend with a raucous Melbourne crowd, and punctuate the Sunday singles matches will victories. Overall, Couples has total respect and control of his team. He had his hands tied in the selection of Tiger Woods to the roster as a captain’s pick. Many clamored for 2011 PGA champion Keegan Bradley, but Woods was 5-0-0 in the 2009 matches.

Couples is a eloquent,  beloved figure in American golf, so his lone major championship (’92 Masters) seems unfitting. Whether it was untapped potential, lack of desire or bad luck remains up for debate. Still, his 53 professional wins from 1983-2003 is the mark of consistency and a timeless swing. Not being overly controversial is a strong trait that Couples possesses, and that is why Norman’s comments haven’t seemed to faze him. He’ll have his team ready to pounce when the opening shots are fired.

Head-to-Head

Norman and Couples have met during the President’s Cup on several occasions. Never have they played in a Sunday singles matchup, but twice in four ball and once in alternate shot.

1996: Team of Couples and Davis Love III steal two points away from Norman and Robert Allenby. First in the Friday morning four ball, and then in the afternoon foursomes.

1998: In the Saturday four ball, Norman and partner Steve Elkington take down the formidable Couples/Love tandem.

Overall, Couples is 2-1 versus Norman. In the two Presidents Cups that both participated in as players, the U.S. won once (’96) and the Internationals won once (’98).

Advantage

I’ve got a feeling this year’s matches will be significantly close. The International team is at home in Melbourne, and heavily-stocked with Aussie ammunition. The talent is as good as it’s ever been for the American opposition, so the little details will be significant. Picking partners and orders with good chemistry will be magnified. While Couples has a proven track record at these events, I think the Internationals finally bite back. Too much momentum is on their side, and Norman knows just how to stoke a controlled burn. He appears ruthless and bitter in his quest to defeat the Americans, and this time, he’s also got the weapons to utilize. Not to think that Couples doesn’t have his own star power, but this round goes to the International team.

2011
10/31
CATEGORY
President's Cup
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Comprehensive President’s Cup Matchup Guide

We’re currently sitting three weeks away from the President’s Cup in Melbourne, Australia. Aside from a little catty cake banter from Fred and Greg, no real drama has swirled around the biennial showdown. But, don’t worry. I’m here to get you prepped at a safe, tepid pace.

Beginning on Monday, Oct. 31, I will present one matchup per day on business days (that’s 13 posts if your doing the finger math). Ending on the Wednesday before “kick-off”, each post will pose a hypothetical head-to-head matchup. Monday I’ll pit the captains against each other, comparing credentials and intangibles. Tuesday we begin to go down the line 1-12, working from Jason Day vs. Matt Kuchar to Tiger Woods vs. Aaron Baddeley. Obviously this isn’t how matchups are constructed, but it will give a perspective of where both sides stand.

Talking points will include “State of the Game“, “Under the Gun Points“, “Previous Cup Experience“, “Possible Alternate Shot/Four Ball Partners” and “Sunday Pole Position“.

Clearly the best stogie chompin’ assistant captain is MJ, c’mon!

See you Monday, folks!

2011
10/27
CATEGORY
President's Cup
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You Haas to be Kidding Me

The shot was absolutely thrilling. Even Hunter Mahan himself, suspected that he could tie a gaudy bow around his $10 million present. But, Bill Haas perfectly performed CPR on his ball, and his chances of winning the FedEx Cup Championship. One hole later, a simple, vanilla par sealed his biggest career victory and payday.

The dramatic finish was a bit uncharacteristic for the PGA Tour’s “Playoffs”. But, here we are a day later with our jaws still stuck to the ground. We’ll see if next year continues to pick up momentum.

As for 2011, golf has two attention-grabbing events left. First, Tiger Woods’ unusual appearance at the Frys.com Open on the West Coast. Everybody wants to see what an extended, HEALTHY layoff does for the former World No. 1 who continues to plummet down the charts. Will he make the cut? Secure a Top-5 finish? Win the damn thing? Crash his golf cart into a fire hydrant during a practice round? These questions and more will be answered.

Secondly, the sport’s ultimate tease: The President’s Cup. Will it end in a tie again? The Aussies could simply gang up on the Americans all by themselves and win handily. But, more on this to come. I’ll have a full breakdown in the coming weeks. See you then.

2011
09/26
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9 Strokes

It probably wasn’t the script golf fans had in mind, but if they tuned in late Sunday evening, the PGA Championship didn’t disappoint. Two polar-opposites–an icy cool Jason Dufner and highly-animated Keegan Bradley–dueled down the stretch. The second consecutive playoff in the tournament was made possible by Dufner’s three straight bogeys (15-16-17) and Bradley’s swashbuckling birdie bomb at No. 17. Drama? Plenty. Star-power? Hardly. Here are nine thoughts about the 3 P’s. The PGA, the playoffs and President’s Cup (Brought to you by Stroke 9’s smash hit “Little Black Backpack”).

1. I’m happy an American finally won. We’ve held our collective breath since Phil Mickelson’s 2010 triumph at Augusta. There was a chance Northern Ireland would win major championships until the end of time.

2. I’m happy an American came in second. Gotta love those Yankees.

3. Where are the “Top 5” players in the world? Absent for all intents and purposes. Despite finishing in a joint T-8, Lukewarm Donald and Less Westwood were five shots back when the smoke cleared. They were never really a factor. Steve Stricker made early headway, but plummeted at the end. Defending champ Martin Kaymer missed the cut. Rory McIlroy gutted-out all four rounds despite a torn arm tendon. These guys need to play better, or move over.

4. Adam Scott is starting to make me angry. I take that back. Not necessarily Scott, but caddie Steve Williams. I just don’t want to see the guy succeed this much. It has more to do with Scott’s talent then Williams ability to carry a golf bag. Just look how he played at this year’s Masters. Scott is going to be a powerhouse in this year’s President’s Cup.

5. “The Playoffs” are next. Really? I’m not excited at all. Especially without Tiger Woods being involved. This thing really isn’t catching on. Blah.

6. Tiger Woods is still a shell of his former self. At this point, he has serious confidence issues. Has he quit on himself and his swing revival? He needs to get back to the practice range and forget about competition for a while.

7. Does Woods’ deserve to be on the President’s Cup roster? He’s currently 28th on the list of eligible Americans. I don’t think he makes any contributions if he plays. Every “World” player wants to kick around the former No. 1. However, wouldn’t a Woods-Scott showdown have to be engineered somehow? Captain Fred Couples will probably pick the embattled Woods, but I think it’s the wrong move. Both Keegan Bradley and Jason Dufner are still out of the top-10 and they are the hottest players around right now.

8. Gary McCord has become insufferable. The ego strokes, poor attempts at humor, and mustache have become too much. He’s reached the pantheon of bad broadcasting (SEE: Berman, Chris).

9. 2012 can’t come soon enough. It’s still early for a year in review, but this golf season left a lot to be desired for. What’s on deck? Hopefully a Woods-McIlroy major showdown.

2011
08/16
CATEGORY
PGA11
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Revisiting Hotlanta

[Me]: Has it really been 10 years since the PGA Tour has been to Atlanta Athletic Club?

[Wikipedia]: Yes.

It’s been a while, AAC. The golf world is a vastly different, unpredictable entity. Truths we knew then, we certainly don’t know now. Tiger Woods used to win tournaments back then. Phil Mickelson tried to. Sergio Garcia was relevant and still somewhat a sensation. The present and future of golf was solely on the still-gangly shoulders of a 25-year-old. Now, a slew of contenders lay stake at the throne. Anybody can win this week. And I mean anybody. Grant Waite could probably win as the 79th alternate.

Flash back to 2001. I have fond memories of being stationed at my shore house in Stone Harbor, N.J. Rooting vehemently against Woods–just because he won too much. Admit it, you probably did too. Hey, it worked, he finished T-29.

The tournament itself played out exactly how it should have. The right man won, the right man lost. The course layout might have been a bit forgiving, but left plenty of theatrics. If you followed as closely as I did, you’ll remember we learned to say “Shingo” and that sometimes, it’s OK not to be Tin Cup. You can have balls and not go for the “ultimate score”.

The final stretch is built to encourage dramatic finishes. The par-3 15th, played host to David Toms’ ace during the third round in 2001. It’s difficulty literally helped Toms pick up 2-3 shots on the field. The 5-wood he hit might have careened over the green if it didn’t hit the stick. Having another par-3 two holes later on No. 17 is extremely unique. You need to be a crafty iron player to navigate this one. Finally, No. 18 is undulated to perfection. The right side slopes the fairway left, and water is definitely waiting for you on the left. Players today will have to cede distance for accuracy. The approach shot taunts you, laughs at you, and implores at you. At 507 yards, it’s a challenge to get the shot close. Toms, famously laid up, and stuck a chip and putt to win by one shot. The steadfast veteran (at age 34), deserved the win. Toms is like dozens of solid tour players who rarely ice up the “big one”. They’ll win the Zurich Classic’s and wind up with a couple big pay days, but that’s about it. A tremendous short game, and Lefty’s passion for runner-ups at the time helped seal the deal. Mickelson played the “Everybody’s Favorite Loser” card well into 2004, when he finally broke through at Augusta. But, without these agonizing near-misses and 11th hour collapses he wouldn’t have evolved into the player he is today. He’s morphed into “Everybody’s Favorite Winner”/”All-American Family Man”/”The Damn Math and Science Guy Who is In All Those Freaking Commercials During Major Championships”. All the heartache made for a pretty good storybook ending.

AAC, let’s do it all over again in 2011.

[AAC]: Just make sure you bring that Dustin guy.

2011
08/10
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Opinion: Shut Up Stevie

As a race car driver, it’s probably a good thing to keep a couple of hands in the “10 and 2” position. As a professional caddie, it’s best to remain in the backseat. That’s where disgruntled shoulder-loader Steve Williams belongs. He’s strangling headlines like a trigger-happy cameraman. Enough with the bitterness. It’s more than out of character for a caddie to speak to the media–let alone do a satellite interview with CNN. Sure, you got dumped by one of the greatest golfers of all time, and yes, I’m sure it stung. But deal with it on your own time. I don’t need to hear your voice-crackling hallelujahs and innuendo-laced jabs at Tiger Woods. It was a pretty sweet accomplishment to win the WGC Bridgestone Invitational with your new partner in crime, Adam Scott. However, that’s the story: Adam Scott. Good for him. It would have been good for you too, if you would have kept your mouth shut. The statement was made loud and clear on the course–with Woods in the field to absorb the shock value.

All of that whining made it look more like you deserved your fate (which you probably didn’t). Woods even admitted that he was happy for you. Caddies don’t get contracts. They also don’t get much loyalty. That’s the way it’s always been. Woods’ inaugural caddie, Fluff, got canned after they won the 1997 Masters together. Rejection should be in your DNA. Williams got 13 years, countless 0’s on his paychecks and a once-in-a-lifetime ride.

So, hopefully we don’t have any more “breaking” news about your opinions. Stop begging for publicity, and grab the straps. The story is the player, and that’s the way it is. Wish your old “mate” best of luck, and carry on with your own career.

2011
08/10
CATEGORY
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Stylistically Speaking, Woods Brings His ‘A’ Game

In Tiger Woods’ first competitive round of golf since his disastrous showing at Sawgrass, he posted a 2-under 68. That puts him six shots behind ironic leader, Adam Scott, who has been playing with Woods’ now ex-caddie, Steve Williams. Not only did Woods look pretty comfortable on the course, but he looked pretty comfortable on the course. Let me explain.

Ever since he descended upon the golf world, he’s always had a sense of style. He introduced Nike Dri-FITs and sleeker wear built for athletes. There have been a few hiccups along the way, ahem, but with every step he’s been a trendsetter.

In the opening round yesterday, Woods looked cool as ever. He rocked the perfect trifecta of a white hat-belt-shoes, and tossed on a wine-colored top to blend it together. His grey breath-through pants capped off the outfit. Thousands of weekend warriors and top-notch amateurs are flocking to the shelves as we speak to poach Woods’ latest line of threads.

The most impressive accessory was on his feet. A prototype Nike model, these lightweight kicks are closer to being on a basketball court than a golf course. The malleable rubber conforms to the body, and promotes a wide range of movement.

Once again, Woods is lapping the field in panache. I can’t wait to see what he wears this weekend.

For more on the shoes, click here.

2011
08/05
CATEGORY
Style
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Tiger Woods Makes Another Comeback

The next two weeks will undoubtedly determine if Tiger Woods’ 2011 campaign was a bust. Signs point to yes. However, appearances at the WGC and PGA Championship could erase memories of this season’s ineptitude. Injuries delivered several blows to Woods’ attempts to play his style of golf, but now he appears to have a clean bill of health.

After purging himself of former coaches and allies, he made another subtraction by canning caddie Steve Williams. It will be awkward at best to watch the chemistry between Woods and new bagman, Bryon Bell.

President’s Cup Captain Fred Couples will keep an active eye on Woods, mentioning that he will likely chose the 14-time major winner with one of his picks. The microscope will once again be on Woods, who hasn’t won a golf tournament since 2009. Will this upcoming fortnight untie the burden of his winless streak? Ask again later.

2011
08/01
CATEGORY
Gone Pollin'
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The Next Seven Years’ War

Are the best players in the world playing on the European Tour or does the European Tour have the best players in the world? That’s a very specific and intriguing question that requires some analyzing.

The top four ranked players in the world are all from Europe (holding tour cards overseas). In the past, if you were in that group, you’d play the lion’s share of your golf in the United States. Assuming that the PGA Tour still is the most competitive, respected and desirable  place for professionals (highest purses, most exposure) to take their talents, the current trend is bizzare.

The next three players on the world ranking list are Steve Stricker, Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson–all PGA mainstays. If the globalization of the game continues to move at a breakneck pace, the PGA Tour will continue to lose its luster. The movement started with Tiger Woods nearly a decade ago, as the superstar spent his offseasons playing in exotic tournaments in Dubai, Japan and Australia. Enough continent-hopping spawned a rapid surge of talent from ever corner of the globe.

Now, another hum-drum week on the PGA Tour begins, as the field migrates its way to West Virginia for The Greenbrier Classic. While across the Atlantic, the European Tour hosts the Irish Open with a newly acquired attraction.

Phil Mickelson and 13 other major winners highlight the field at The Greenbrier, but in Ireland three of the past six major champions are dueling for a shot at victory. It may be a coincidence that three of those past six winners hail from Northen Ireland, but it may not. And that’s a scary proposition for the state of American golf, not to mention Tim Finchem.

Young players under 30 (i.e. Rory McIlroy, Martin Kaymer) continue to shun opportunities to appear in the States. The excitement comes with these freshly-minted stars. So does the money. That’s why the next seven years become absolutely critical. To stabilize the PGA Tour, and sustain its place as a high-water mark in a player’s career, the following needs to happen. If not, then the growth of the game will be too strong. Burgeoning markets in Asia and the Middle East are ready to attract the world’s best with absurd purses and lavish accommodations.

1) Tie-down more affluent, global corporate sponsors. When the recession hit the United States in 2008, it blew up the identity of the PGA Tour. Names of tournaments survived on a revolving-door policy, with sponsors backing in and out like a bad parallel park job. Buick, Ford, and DaimlerChrysler were a few that shifted into reverse, leaving various events in limbo. Can anyone land the “Jumeirah Open” so that Rory is obligated to come play?

2) Get Tiger back. First and foremost, Woods needs to be healthy. Without that, he’s nothing. Get to 100%, and start playing a full (probably 12-15 tournaments) schedule for 2012. Play at Jack’s, Arnie’s, Byron’s (He’s up there waiting for you to come back) and all the World Golf Championships. Return to Torrey Pines and Pebble Beach at the beginning of the year, and gear up for the playoffs in late-August. You don’t have to necessarily care about them, just show up. Chances are the system won’t get any traction, but every player in the world wants a shot at going head-to-head with you. Once you get your game together, a brash crop of newbies want the throne.

3) The “Next Big Thing” needs to show up. There are plenty of contenders out there, but nobody seems to have the moxie. Mickelson, Stricker, Jim Furyk and Matt Kucher are all great players–from the 90s. The PGA Tour needs to market guys like Rickie Fowler and Dustin Johnson, who have shown the potential to win. They also serve as a shot in the arm to ratings and can garner a young audience. This player-to-be-named needs to be revered globally, playing occasionally on other continents. Most of all they need to win. Soon.

The next two weeks will bring all of the top-ranked players to the United States for the WGC Bridgestone Invitational and the PGA Championship. Now would be a good time to reverse the course of recent developments. In seven years, we could have The Beijing Open and Dubai Classic in their place. They are more than willing to shell out the money. In seven years, the globalization of the game could devour the PGA Tour, vacuuming out America’s talent pool. Let’s hope Mr. Finchem can rally ’round the flag.

Gen. Phillip Mickelson, fatally wounded at the 2018 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, with his 2010 Masters’ flag at his side.

The always flamboyantly-dressed Gen. Rick Fowler rallies troops at the Battle of Torrey Pines.

2011
07/26
CATEGORY
Finchem's Folly
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