Players Championship 2012: Closers Who Will Soar into Contention on Day 4

As we get set for the Players Championship 2012 at TPC Sawgrass, we note that there are several golfers raising eyebrows this year.

Whether they appear to be honing their game or celebrating their first victory on tour, this year's crop of contenders figure to battle to the end, making for an exciting finish.

Here's a look at three contenders who I see closing on Day 4.

Luke Donald

Luke Donald has already won the Transitions Championship this year. He closed with a 67 at the Zurich Classic, placing third. He's still one of the top golfers in the world and he placed fourth at the Players Championship last year. He may never win a major championship, but he can win the Players Championship. 

Jason Dufner

Jason Dufner just captured his first PGA Tour victory at the Zurich Classic. He also placed 10th at the Transitions Championship. He's a big-time sleeper, but I expect him to ride his victory in New Orleans right into the Players Championship and surprise everybody. I don't see him winning, but he's playing some of the best golf of his career.

Louis Oosthuizen

Louis Oosthuizen just won the Malaysian Open. He also placed third at the Houston Open and tied for second in that fantastic playoff against Bubba Watson at the Masters. He's for real, and is playing some splendid golf this year. He could potentially win the 2012 Players Championship, but I see him being edged by Rory McIlroy.

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