The Masters 2016: 6 potential winners
By Andy Erk
3. Rory McIlroy
The current world No. 3 heads into Augusta with a solid start to his year, but with room to improve. McIlroy’s showing at the WGC Dell Match Play and WGC Cadillac, are his two best starts on the PGA Tour this season. He finished third and fourth respectively. McIlroy has a similar advantage to Dustin Johnson, his ability to score well on the par-5s with his distance off of the tee. At sixth on tour in total driving distance, it is hard to argue his ability to overpower the golf course. McIlroy does find himself in a bad spot in Strokes Gained Putting, as he currently sits 94th on Tour. However, McIlroy did see a switch in his putting stroke a few backs. The new, left hand low, putting style seemed to pay dividends at the Dell Match Play, as he putted the ball very well including a made 68-footer.
While Rory has had a mixed bag of results at Augusta, it is hard to count out someone with his talent level. Along with a few others, McIlroy has the intangibles that many golfers lack giving him a distinct advantage on the course.
With four major championships to his name, McIlroy knows how to close the deal down the stretch. McIlroy is an assumed champion in the waiting. Whether that Masters win comes this year, or in the future. With McIlroy’s driving distance off of the tee his ability to score on the par-5s, McIlroy should find himself in contention, especially if he can keep the putter going.
Next: 2. Adam Scott