Masters 2012 Leaderboard: Tiger Primed for Excellent Masters with Early Play

No, Tiger Woods hasn't had an amazing open to his Masters tournament like Henrik Stenson, who was a stunning six-under after 10 holes.

That being said, Woods battled in the front nine and looked sharp. He's currently sitting one-under after eight holes.

Despite two terrible tee shots after the first two holes, Tiger salvaged a par on each. He played steady early, which is a good sign with only 19 players under par in the early afternoon.

Plus, Tiger has not traditionally started strong, which means solid play early today should set the table quite nicely for later.

Here's your context, from ESPN:

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Historically, Woods’ worst round at the Masters has been the first, where his average has been 72.1. (Also, the first hole is Woods' worst at Augusta, +16. He’s birdied it only four times as a pro, with 18 bogeys and one double bogey.) His second-round average is 70.4; 69.8 in the third; 70.6 in the fourth.

Only once since 2001 has Woods posted a score in the 60s in the first round (68 in 2010).

Despite being a slow starter, Woods has made the cut every year since 1997, which is the longest active streak at the Masters (see chart).

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Assuming Henrik Stenson doesn't continue his absurd play and blow out the field, Woods looks primed to seriously contend at the Masters. Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson will have something to say about that, but don't be surprised if Woods finds his way near the top of the leaderboard by Sunday.

It sure would be good for golf if he does.

If early returns are any indication, he could be set up for a very nice tournament.

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