Rory McIlroy: What to Make of Golf Star's Opening Round

Rory McIlroy had a solid Round 1 at 2012 PGA Championship. He shot a five-under 67 and it puts him in a good position for Friday's second-round play.

But what does this really mean for McIlroy?

If you pay attention to what he's done this year, it may mean he's peaking too early. In only one tournament this year has McIlroy shot a sub-70 or better and not headed downhill in the subsequent rounds.

At the Open Championship, McIlroy delivered a 67 but imploded in the second round with a 75. That pretty much sealed his fate in that tournament.

He stayed competitive in the FedEx Classic after a 68 in Round 1. But he didn’t win, and he missed the top five, primarily because of the 72 he shot in Round 3.

This unfortunately has been the problem for McIlroy all year. He has been dogged by the one horrible round, and where it rears its head has been unpredictable.

This tournament could be different, and I base that on the fact that he’s coming off such a strong performance in the WGC Bridgestone Invitational.

He was consistent throughout and finished eight-under and in fifth place. The confidence certainly seems to have carried over to The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island—at least through one round.

It’s too early to make a strong prediction based on what we’ve seen, but if McIlroy delivers in Round 2 it’ll only add to his confidence. That should help his poise in the final two rounds, and for him that is key.

He has been prone to the occasional implosion, but if he maintains through two rounds I think he’ll be in it until the end. McIlroy’s talent is apparent, his concentration and confidence are his biggest weaknesses.

We’ll see if both hold up through the weekend.

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