Defeat the Empire

A long time ago, a now over-the-hill golfer name Eldrick won four major championships in a row. No, due to a technicality, it wasn't a grand slam, but he still held all four titles at the same time.

And at that time, Phil couldn't win shit. He'd come close, he'd have four foot puts for birdie lined up at Augusta, but he wouldn't come through. He was a loveable loser, like the Chicago Cubs or the English World Cup team.

But here in contemporary 2006, tables are turned. Instead of chasing down a major championship, Eldrick is on a bed somewhere with Elin Nordegren watching the people's champion chase down a third consecutive major title.

Of course, we've got some golf left to be played. But who honestly doesn't think Mickelson's going to win this golf tournament? He's 3-0 in majors when leading or having a share of the lead entering the final round, and he's tied now with Kenneth Ferrie of England at +2. Oh, and an European hasn't won this tournament since 1970, a stat stacked against the volatile Ferrie.

The good golfers are further back in the field. Vijay Singh is a +5, three off the pace, and Jim Furyk is at +6. Those two guys have the ability to mount a charge.

But, hell, who doesn't think Phil's going to win at this point? Quite a role reversal fron four years ago, when I followed Phil around Bethpage when he couldn't quite catch Eldrick for an elusive first. Here in '06, he's five rounds away from the Tiger Slam.

Go Phil!