Friday at The Masters delivered exactly what we all expected — the unexpected.
It was the kind of day where some predictions started to click, some went ice cold, and a few players reminded us why Augusta is as much about patience and feel as it is about data and distance.
Let’s get into it.
Scottie Goes Full Spieth?
I never thought I’d say this, but Scottie Scheffler gave us the most Jordan Spieth-esque round I’ve seen from him. Both in chaos, and in grind. He wasn’t on autopilot like usual — instead, he had to work for every bit of that round. I also really enjoyed watching him take a seat on 18 in the trees while waiting on the rules official, talk about relaxed.
And here’s the scary part: he still shot well.
If grinding through Augusta on Friday unlocks a calmer weekend, look out — Scottie might cruise to another Green Jacket.
🔥 Rory, Unlocked
I knew it.
There was a 66 waiting in Rory’s bag, and today, he found it. Everything was dialed: the driver, the irons, the mindset. It was smooth, confident, composed Rory — the version that can win at Augusta.
If he keeps this up, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in the final pairing on Sunday and completing that Grand Slam.
Bryson: Built for the Big Stage
Let’s be real — Bryson shows up when the lights are brightest. We’ve seen it at the U.S. Open, and now he’s giving Augusta a run. The dude might be filming YouTube vlogs during practice rounds, but clearly, he’s also flipping the switch when it matters.
📉 The Takes That… Didn’t Age Great
I’ll own it — a few of my boldest calls are already looking iffy. But hey, that’s part of the fun.
- Ludvig’s proving why you never count out elite talent.
- Justin Thomas didn’t miss the cut like I projected.
- And yes, some of my “on the fringe” predictions are pushing into the top 15.
But one thing I do feel great about…
🥷 Corey Conners: Mr. Sneaky Strikes Again
Corey Conners just keeps doing what he does — flying under the radar, hitting fairways, and putting together another rock-solid round. The leaderboard may have some flashier names, but don’t be shocked if Conners is still hanging around deep into Sunday.
Saturday Surge Watch: Rai, McNealy, Min Woo
Three names I’ve got circled for a Saturday surge:
- Aaron Rai – ball-striking has been elite, just needs the putter to wake up.
- Maverick McNealy – I’m still aboard this bandwagon, and I’m not getting off.
- Min Woo Lee – this course fits him when he’s confident, and I think we’re seeing that now.
If any of them shoot 67 or better, things are going to get real interesting.
Will Moving Day Cool Anyone Off?
I’m watching Justin Rose closely. Historically, he dips after hot starts — but something feels different this time. His putting looks confident, his tempo is smooth, and if he holds steady Saturday, he might just flip the script. His interview with SVP in Butler Cabin also gave me deep run into the weekend vibes.
Jason Day, So Close
You hate to see it — Jason Day bogeyed 18, killing what would’ve been the first bogey-free 36 at Augusta in… I don’t even know how long. Still, if he puts together a bogey-free round under 70 on Saturday? He’s right in the thick of it come Sunday.
Final Thought
The board is shaping up beautifully
Let’s see who moves, who fades, and who steps up to chase that Green Jacket.