British Open 2011: 10 Bold Predictions for the Final Day of Play at St. Georges

The British Open is coming to a close, and as it does, we are assured some final round heroics and efforts.  

Who really knows what will happen on Sunday of this major championship that has played tougher than the US Open so far.

Here are 10 bold predictions for the final round. 

James Evens serves as a National Featured Columnist for college football and basketball, as well as the FC for the Purdue Boilermakers.   Follow him on Twitter or like him on Facebook.

Darren Clarke Will Not Hold His Lead

Clarke will not be able to hold his lead on Sunday. The Irishman just will not have what it takes to seal the deal for this first major championship at age 42.

Although he leads going into the last day, it will be tough for him to hold back the young contingent that is jockeying for his title. 

An American Will Win

Out of the top 10 on the leader-board right now, six are American golfers.

With the names of Rickie Fowler, Phil Mickelson and Davis Love III still on the prowl, the Americans are in a great spot to win. 

Rory McIlroy Will Make a Run

Although he had high hopes coming into the week after a masterful performance at the US Open, McIlroy has fallen off the pace and out of the spotlight, but he is still lurking. 

He is currently tied for 25 and eight shots behind, but he will more than likely break the top 10 if he wants to salvage a good weekend. 

The Old Guys Will Make Things Interesting

With all of the young guys trying to break through in golf right now, this week has been the story of the previous generation.

Look for the old guys to really do well in the final day of play, as they have all been in the situation many times before and are looking to capitalize on such an open field right now. 

Miguel Jimenez Will Drop off

After firing an opening round 66, Jimenez is destined for a drop out of the top 10. He has failed to reach par since that first day, and will more than likely continue to drop.

It's too bad for Jimenez, who had a shot at the major, but it looks like unless he gets his swing in order, his weekend is all but over. 

Announcers Will Say Tiger Woods Around 25 Times

The guy isn't even playing in the tournament, and he will be mentioned at least 25 times. How annoying is that?

I know he is the best in the world, but for real, the guy hasn't played in what seems like years. 

Phil Will Give It a Run for His Money

The old lefty has always been known for not closing the deal, but this tournament may be different. 

With a leader-board that is filled with either one time winners or no winners, he has a shot to really make a run at the end.

It could be interesting if Phil's wedges get hot.

Playoff

This tournament has been too back and forth for there not to be a playoff.  It will be the first playoff in a major since the legendary three hole playoff at the PGA last season.

Look for this one to come down to the wire, as no one has yet proven that they are able to pull away. 

Dustin Johnson Will Excel

It's been almost a year since the devastating Whistling Straits bunker haunted Dustin Johnson to allow him in a playoff for the PGA Championship. Well, Johnson is in the hunt again this time at the Open.

After firing an even par round the first day, he has put in two stellar two under performances.

Johnson is in the hunt, and will more than likely be in the thick of things at the end.  

Rickie Fowler Get Elusive First Win

Rickie Fowler is one of the hottest players on tour right now and is due for a victory. 

Although he is very flamboyant with his dress, which is not appreciated by some, the kid is a great golfer and it's time that he shines through.

After a first round score of par and repeating the second day, Rickie will try to win not only his first event but his first major.

It's been a year for firsts, and don't be surprised if another happens at the Open with Fowler.