ZealousGolfer.com

Phil Mickelson will try to make a return of sorts this week. Lefty has had a single top 20 finish since his U.S. Open meltdown at Winged Foot. He won the tournament in 2005, but it doesn't look like winning this week will be a cakewalk. Possibly not. He missed the cut last week at the FBR Open playing amidst a weak field filled with players who will be scrapping for TOUR Cards come September. With that cut, Phil fell to 6th place in the Official World Rankings. Considering he was ranked second not so long ago, its easy to wonder whether Phil will claim another major title, or win, again.

Last year's champion, Arron Oberholser, will be absent this week due to back problems. Oberholser owned Pebble last season with a streak of spectacular putting. Pebble Beach generally has some of the most difficult greens on Tour due to the sheer amount of play on the course not only during the tournament, but year round. Oberholser, who is one of the Tour's shortest drivers, had zero 3-putts over the week.

While Tiger may be absent this week, Tom Watson will look to get his fourth victory at Pebble Beach. Watson plays full time on the Champions Tour, but still has the game of a 40 year old. He should have a good chance to make the cut as Pebble Beach tends to reward great short games, not long bombers. John Daly will also play this week on a sponsor's exemption as he attempts to earn unlimited sponsor's exemptions for this season, and hopefully playing privileges next season.

Look for Davis Love III to go low this week. Love has always been a strong player, but has been playing especially well as of late. A 65 on Sunday at the TPC of Scottsdale signals another good week for Love.