Masters 2012 Leaderboard: Predictions for Exciting Day 2 at Augusta

There was enough drama in day one of the Masters to fill two seasons of anything the Kardashians could dream up, and there will be just as much in the next chapter that is about to unfold. 

Like the last boss in Punch Out, the Masters was taken to a whole new level of difficulty on Thursday, as rains left the course a muddy slop. 

Balls left irons like knuckle balls and sat petulant when you thought they would catch and spin back to the hole. Weather may again play a part in Friday's proceedings, and that just makes every last shot all the more crucial. 

There was no bigger dramatic turn on Thursday than the implosion of Henrik Stenson who went from leader to goat all in one hole. 

Day two may be kinder on Stenson, but it's clear that he missed a gigantic opportunity to put something special together. 

What will round two bring?

1. Cream Will Rise: 

Day one at Augusta is hard enough with all the nerves, pressure and grandeur that is spread around the course. 

It usually takes a day or two to get your feet underneath you.

I fully expect Phil Mickelson to rebound and push towards the right side of the cut line. His slow start negates him from a green jacket historically, but he is far from done at this Masters. 

2. Rory McIlroy Will Shine: 

We have seen a solid start by McIlroy at Augusta before, but the mud and some early frustration worked against him on day one. A double bogey at hole No. 1 would have been enough to send other golfers packing. 

McIlroy showed a great deal of poise to chop at the course and end the first round at one-under 71.

I say we are about to see a really special day. 

3. Tiger Woods Will Make Dramatic Push: 

Woods was all over the place on Thursday. His driving—the one thing that has been consistently good—left him completely for a few holes. 

Tiger battled on a day where his form reverted to what it was months ago. I say the nerves are gone and we will see more of Bay Hill-like consistency from here on out. 

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