Lack of Clear Favorite Makes 2012 British Open a Must-Watch

You look at the field for the 2012 British Open and there is no clear-cut favorite.

Even Tiger Woods, who has looked much better, has been inconsistent and unpredictable.

But as exciting as it was to see Tiger Woods win 14 major championships in a span of 11 years, his lack of dominance these days makes things just as interesting.

Phil Mickelson, who placed second at last year's British Open, has had a miserable last three tournaments, including at the U.S. Open when he finished in 65th place.

Rory McIlroy, who was supposed to be the game's next Woods, hasn't done a whole lot since shocking the world at the 2011 U.S. Open.

There's also the fact that fast-rising American Webb Simpson was looking good heading into the British Open this year after capturing the U.S. Open, but withdrew from the tournament because he's expecting his second child. With him absent, that takes yet another legitimate contender out of the mix.

Of course you have Lee Westwood and Luke Donald, who continue to play consistent golf—except in major championships. 

That's not to mention two-time British Open champ Padraig Harrington, who certainly has history in the tournament, but has struggled as of late.

But isn't this what the British Open is supposed to be about? Heck, Darren Clarke won the major last year, and nobody (except maybe himself) had him emerging victorious. There's a chance we have a first-time British Open champ this year.

There should be plenty of competitors in the mix come Sunday at the British Open, and it may simply come down to a couple of no-names vying for the Claret Jug at the end of the day.

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