Shell Houston Open 2012: Don't Expect Phil Mickelson to Repeat

Phil Mickelson likes the Houston Open. Not only does it help prepare him for the Masters, he won the event last year by three strokes.

But this isn't the same Phil Mickelson. In fact, he's taken a nosedive since his victory at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am just two months ago.

It's not just that Mickelson has finished 43rd and 24th in his past two events, it's that he failed to break 71 in both events. He's currently ranked 158th in driving accuracy on tour and 107th in greens in regulation. What's so ironic about this is that putting was his problem area last season. It's like he's worked hard on his putting game but forgotten to stay on par with his long game.

Beyond this, Mickelson's head isn't right. He's losing composure out on the course and it shows.

Despite winning the Houston Open last year, Mickelson said after the final round, via CBSSports.com:

"

I've got to maintain my focus throughout the round. There were two points out there today where I just lost focus. Next week at Augusta that golf course can be very penalizing.

"

Mickelson's words have proven to be foreboding. Since his win at the Pro-Am, he's struggled with his consistency.

Mickelson wouldn't be a decorated golfer if he didn't make adjustments. In that respect, I expect him to work hard on his game moving forward. But he still has a ways to go before he smooths out his game. He's not only driving the ball poorly, he's losing focus, and that's a bad combination.

Will Mickelson rise back to the top this weekend at Redstone? I doubt it.

But it should be seen as more of a testing ground for the Masters this year than a potential repeat performance.

The most important thing for the reigning champ to do this week is to improve. He's not at a level to realistically win the tournament again.

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