British Open 2013: Lattest Chatter Surrounding Golf's 3rd Major of the Year

The Open championship will begin Thursday, and there is plenty to discuss. If the year's third major is as thrilling as the Masters and the PGA Championship, then the golf world is in for an exciting four days of action across the pond.

As the beginning of the tournament nears, here is the latest talk surrounding the course and the biggest names in the field.

Is This Tiger Woods' Best Chance at a Major in the Last Two Years?

In short, the answer is yes. Muirfield Golf Course fits Tiger Woods' style quite well. If the temperatures stay balmy in Scotland, it will only help Woods' chances. He has experienced the nightmare round here back in 2002 when he produced an 81 in the third round, but the course still plays favorable for long hitters.

Per Weather.com, there is only a chance for rain on the opening day and the expected wind speeds don't exceed eight mph on any day.

CBS Sports' Kyle Porter said this of Woods' chances to win:

"

It's starting to feel a lot like Hoylake in 2006 for Tiger Woods. Fast fairways, warm conditions and eschewing the driver for long irons. If he can putt at all this week, I think he can win. 

"

Anything can happen, but the conditions couldn't be more favorable for Woods.

Can Phil Mickelson Follow Up His Win at the Scottish Open With Another Victory?

Lefty nearly choked away a win at the Scottish Open but ultimately came through as he triumphed over Branden Grace in a playoff. After recovering to win the Scottish Open, Phil Mickelson said this to USA Today:

"I almost let it slip away, but to come out on top feels terrific."

Mickelson probably won't get an opportunity to slip up and recover against such a star-studded field at the Open Championship.

There is never a doubt about Mickelson's talent—even at 43 years old—there is always the choke factor, though.

Jordan Spieth is in Position to Make His Mark

After becoming the youngest man to win on the PGA Tour in 82 years at the John Deere Classic, Jordan Spieth could really make a statement if he is a factor at the Open Championship. 

According to a report from Paul Newberry of The Associated Press (via the Washington Times), Spieth is resting on his monumental accomplishment:

"

I can refocus, think of it as just another week. I can reflect on (the John Deere win) more after this week. But today, I had to turn my attention here because it’s one of the biggest weeks of the year.

"

Spieth will need to be even better in the Open Championship than he was at the John Deere Classic to even be in striking distance on the last two days. If he is, the next superstar may be born.

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