Jim Souhan's golfers to watch in the 2017 Masters

April 6, 2017 at 4:20AM

Souhan's players to watch at Augusta
1. Dustin Johnson: He's No. 1 in the world and has won three times this year, but his injured back could hamper him.

2. Jordan Spieth: He isn't putting well at the moment but has come close to winning three consecutive Masters and has been able to joke about his 2016 collapse.

3. Rory McIlroy: His high, powerful ball flight should be ideal for Augusta National and he has finished in the top 10 in the past three Masters.

4. Hideki Matsuyama: Has finished in the top 10 in his past two Masters and is an exceptional putter.

5. Zach Johnson: The Iowan is celebrating the 10th anniversary of his Masters victory. If wind and weather turn the par-5s into three-shot holes and the tournament into an exercise in mental toughness and putting, Johnson could win another green jacket.

6. Bubba Watson: Has won two of the past five Masters. Isn't playing well but that might not matter on his favorite course.

7. Rickie Fowler: Finished 12th and fifth in past three Masters, is currently One of the Better Players Never to Win a Major.

8. Justin Rose: Has finished 14th or better in past three Masters and might be most promising Euro in the field.

9. Thomas Pieters: The Ryder Cup phenom from Belgium has lots of game, as Hazeltine watchers can attest.

10. Phil Mickelson: He's 46 and a long shot — like Jack in '86.

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