Masters Predictions 2012: Rory McIlroy and Young Guns That Will Thrive

Just because a golfer is under the age of say 25, don't think for a second he isn't capable of winning the Masters at Augusta National. 

Sure, it may be the biggest golf event of the year, but these kids know how to compete on the big stage. 

Guys like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Lee Westwood and Steve Stricker will perform well, but you shouldn't sleep on the younger guys. 

That being said, here are just three young guns that are going to thrive at the 2012 Masters. 

Rory McIlroy

At the age of 22, McIlroy is the best young golfer in the world today. He currently ranks as No. 2 in the world, and he has a great desire to reach No. 1 again. 

Winning the Masters would definitely put him on top, as well as label him the next best thing. He may already be considered that, but winning at Augusta would solidify that. 

Despite his massive choke performance last year, he tied for 15th place.

Look for McIlroy to bounce back strong and finish with near the top. Don't be surprised if he's dominating all weekend once again. 

Jason Day 

Last year was Day's first time ever playing at Augusta National, and instead of flopping in the spotlight, the 24-year-old finished tied for second place. 

Day posted a score of -12, which set the Masters record for the lowest score by a first time participant.

That's extremely remarkable, and you better believe he is going to thrive once again. 

Ranked at No. 11 in the world, Day is only going to get better. He has a long career ahead of him, and since he knows he practically mastered the Masters on his first try, he'll go out and do it all again next weekend. 

Rickie Fowler 

Fowler is 23 years old, but don't let his young age fool you because this kid can flat-out play. 

He currently ranks as No. 41 in the world, and he should see a rise in the rankings after a strong showing at Augusta. 

In 2011, Fowler tied for 38th place with a score of one over par. He was doing well throughout the weekend but failed to surge late. 

After finishing the rest of 2011 in good standing, including a top-five finish at the Open Championship, Fowler is poised and ready to make a great deal of noise on the golf course in Augusta.