This Open Has Been the One of the False Countout

This 2010 US Open has been shrouded in negativity about the winning score, the pre-tournament favorites, and the leaders.  Coming into it, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Lee Westwood were the names most mentioned as the likely winner.  All three performed poorly on Thursday, leading to serious doubt that any of the three would rebound.  The first day leaders at -2 were almost all universally expected to fade away in typical US Open fashion.

Then Mickelson was the first to restore his good name.  An emotional Friday round propelled him back into the tournament and near the final group of Graeme McDowell and Dustin Johnson.  Both of the men in the final pairing on Sunday were expected to fold like a house of cards.  Tiger Woods, who loomed precariously near the cut line at times, was seen to be a follower this week - not a leader like in 2000.

Saturday was another day of redemption and repelling skepticism.  First, it was the final pairing.  McDowell and Johnson not only hung on through the round, but thrived on the front nine.  Their lead over the field grew while the groups in front of them languished - or at least moved sideways. 

Not to be outdone, Woods discovered the complete game that has eluded him for the last several months, since the first round of the Masters.  Confidence growing and radiated, infecting the entire course, Woods turned in 66 with three closing birdies.  Once again, Woods now sits close to the lead with a chance to capture a major as the predator chasing prey.  Perhaps in this Open of doubters, Woods could make personal history that he would care to remember.

Or will it be someone else entirely?  McDowell could regain his composure.  Ernie Els could get hot.  Mickelson could replicate Friday.  Just remember to never count out anyone in this Open.  This fight has a three knockdown rule.