Wednesday, April 6, 2011

The Masters: Ten Players Who Could Spring a Major Shock at Augusta

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FanHouse recently looked at Jim Furyk's comments how he felt the group of players who were capable of winning the Masters had significantly decreased. However, over the past 10 years, the tournament has seen some surprise winners of the green jacket. With due respect to the likes of Angel Cabrera, Trevor Immelman, Zach Johnson and Mike Weir, all four would not have been in a bookmaker's top five when the tournament started. So who is to say it cannot happen again in 2011? Here we look at 10 outsiders who could tame Augusta National.

Nick Watney Odds 16-1, 7th in 2010
Watney has made an excellent start to his season with five top 10 finishes, including victory in the WGC Cadillac Championship. The American has the highest birdie average and lowest scoring average on the PGA Tour this season. He also has the second lowest putting average, which will be tested to the limit at Augusta. Watney, 29, has all the elements to become another surprise winner.

Hunter Mahan Odds 35-1, Tied 8th in 2010
The 28-year-old American may have been driven to tears after his defeat to Graham McDowell helped Europe win back the Ryder Cup, but Mahan is a gritty competitor. This year he has posted four top 10 finishes and while he might not be the longest hitter, he is one of the most accurate players off the tee. Mahan, who has three PGA Tour victories, is currently ranked No.18 in the world.

Martin Laird Odds 66-1, DNP in 2010
The shock winner of the Arnold Palmer Invitational has seen his world ranking climb to No.21 after his success at Bay Hill. The 28-year-old from Glasgow has never competed in the Masters but previous debutants have won the tournament at the first attempt. Laird's main strength is off the tee with an average driving distance of over 302 yards. Victory at Augusta would complete a sensational breakthrough year.

 

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Source: http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/04/06/the-masters-ten-players-who-could-spring-a-major-shock-at-augus/

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