Phil Mickelson: Round-by-Round Predictions for Lefty

When it comes to major tournaments, you can never count out Phil Mickelson.

And, this year's Open Championship is no different as Mickelson will look to win his title at Britain's major.

Last year, Mickelson finished tied for second, three shots behind winner Darren Clarke.

Coming into this year's tournament, Mickelson has struggled. But, remember, it's still a major and you can never underestimate what he can do.

Here is a look at my round-by-round predictions for Lefty.

Note: Keep in mind these are only predictions and that I will likely miss in some aspects.

First Round

I could honestly see Mickelson doing well on the first day of the tournament.

In what is expected to be horrible conditions throughout the tournament, it's not likely more than 15-20 players will be under-par for the tournament.

Mickelson, however, will be one of those as he will score one-under on the first day, using his veteran know-how to take chances only when necessary and go for the sure shot.

By keeping this mindset throughout the tournament, Mickelson could see himself near the top of the leaderboard throughout.

Second Round

I believe Mickelson can have his score at three-under by the end of the second day, continuing to take chances only when he needs to.

By getting himself in position for the title, Lefty can then take more chances as the golfers head into the weekend.

Expect him to make birdies on the par-four fourth hole, and par-three ninth and 12th holes. His bogey will come late on the 15th hole.

Third Round

As the weather continues to deteriorate over the weekend, scores are likely to drop for many golfers.

There will be less and less birdies, and more and more bogeys.

Mickelson will be no different as he'll limit his number of bogeys.

Still, he will have more bogeys than birdies and will drop a shot from the second round, heading into the final round at two-under.

Final Round

The final round will be almost like the third round.

Mickelson's score, like many others in the field, will not get much better, and it's going to come down to who makes fewer mistakes.

Lefty will end the tournament one-under par, but will not be near the top-10.

A few in the field will best the weather conditions, ending up around six- or seven-under.

For Mickelson, although it won't be the finish he wants, it will definitely be a better showing than he's had in the last three tournaments that he's participated in.