Phil Mickelson could find his path to victory obstructed by Dustin Johnson, with rain forecast at the Northern Trust Open
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Phil Mickelson has the chance to continue his auspicious start to the season at the Northern Trust Open this week, with his chances of victory improved by the absence of the three players above him in the world rankings.
The American looked a fading force towards the end of last season as he battled against injury, but Mickelson has injected fresh life into his game in 2011, topping the PGA Tour scoring average with a laudable 68.4 strokes-per-round total.
His current form is set to heap further misery on a beleaguered Tiger Woods, who is perilously close to dropping down to No. 4 in the rankings, and we can't think of too many reasons to oppose him on the Riviera course, where he enters as a two-time winner.
Williams' wagers
- Dustin Johnson E/W to win the Northern Trust Open - 22/1 at bet365
- Bubba Watson E/W - 40/1 at bet365
- Ryo Ishikawa E/W - 150/1 at bet365
Phil's lost the winning touch
That said, you could argue that the 40-year-old looks a little skinny at 13/2 - he hasn't won since last year's Masters, remember - so we'll make Dustin Johnson, who comes in at 22/1, our headline choice this week.
The Riviera course has traditionally rewarded those who can find birdies on the par-fours - and Johnson is in the top-five in that category on the PGA Tour this year, having picked up two top-ten finishes from four starts.
What's more, his driving power is likely to provide a serious weapon over the weekend, with the forecasted rain likely to produce sodden fairways that prevent the ball running on from the tee. He's gone well on the track before, finishing in the top ten in the last two years, and we'll support his chances of lifting the fifth trophy of his career.
Bubba has the power
Given the criteria we've laid down for success, you have to take Bubba Watson's chances seriously - he's the longest hitter on the US circuit, and ranks third in terms of greens hit. His 40/1 odds reflect the fact he doesn't have a great record at the course, although a couple of top-20s suggests there is room for improvement.
Finally, we'll take a look at precocious Japanese player Ryo Ishikawa, who was tied for fourth last year on Saturday morning before collapsing over the weekend. We can't see him winning it - he's still searching for a top-ten on the PGA Tour - but an each-way shot tempts as he has the game to go well here.
Please note that odds are correct at time of publication and are subject to change.
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Josh Williams
Josh Williams is an assistant editor of ESPN.co.uk
