Masters Favorites 2012: Rory McIlroy and Major Threats to Derail Tiger Woods

Tiger Woods is the favorite, the sexy pick and the hot name to win the 2012 Masters—but the rest of the world isn't going to lie down for him.

Tiger's intimidation factor hasn't hit its stride as of yet, and there are a few players who will relish the opportunity to try and tame him.

Is Rory McIlroy a Choker?

After McIlroy experienced a Greg Norman-like collapse at Augusta National last year, fans can wonder if he has what it takes to finish on the legendary course.

I don't wonder at all.

McIlroy is the game's best young star and a formidable threat to Tiger Woods at the Masters—and just about any other tournament on the PGA Tour.

He has already compiled top-three finishes in each of his PGA Tour events this year, winning the Honda Classic last month.

He's the No. 2 ranked player in the world and a definite force to be reckoned with.

Lefty Lurks

Phil Mickelson is doing what he always does, flying under the radar. It's what he prefers, and it makes him more dangerous.

He is currently ranked third in the world, but his 2012 has been a mixed bag.

Besides his win at Pebble Beach in the AT&T Pro-Am, Mickelson hasn't had another top-three finish this year. He even missed the cut at the Farmers Insurance Open in January.

That said—don't underestimate him.

He gets up for the majors, as do most of the elite players. Also, whether he admits it or not, he sees the Tiger momentum building—the competitor in him wants a piece of that action.

Can Luke Use the Force?

Luke Donald's year has gotten progressively better as the year moves on. He began the year with a 56th-place finish, then a 33rd-place finish, followed by a sixth-place finish last month at Doral.

On March 18, Donald took home the Match Play championship at the Transitions Championship.

Needless to say, Donald is on a roll.

While many are talking about Tiger, Rory and Lefty, the world should have their eyes on Luke as well.