Today is an exciting day for golfers and golf fans as the 2013 PGA Tour season kicks off with the Hyundai Tournament of Champions in Kapalua Hawaii. After making my fantasy picks for the week, I thought this would also be a great opportunity to make some predictions for the year ahead, and weigh in on some players I'll be keeping and eye on. I've got high hopes for some long shots, and low expectations for some of last years favorites. I'll look back at this post at the end of the year to send out some "I told you so's".Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) - As the current #1 player in golf, I'm definitely going against the odds in predicting that Rory will have a mediocre year. He will likely win one event, but I think he will struggle as he adjusts to his new golf clubs. I don't expect him to maintain his number 1 world ranking position throughout the year. I'd also like to predict, with some certainty, that McIlroy will play in the 2016 Olympics, despite recent news that he is considering opting out.
Bubba Watson (@BubbaWatson) - Looking good in his new Oakley gear, I think Bubba will continue to improve throughout the 2013 season. It's hard to argue with the longest hitter on the Tour. I expect Bubba to win at least a couple events, including one of the Majors.
Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) - I think Tiger will continue to make strides back to his old self and build upon the season he had in 2012. I think he'll win a couple tournaments including one of the Majors.
Rickie Fowler (@RickieFowlerPGA) - Although one of my favorites to watch and an all around great guy, I think Rickie will need to use this season to relax, and acclimatize to the fame and fortune that comes along with being one of golfs 'poster boys'. Given another year, I'll be watching for great things from Rickie in 2014.
Ben Crane (@BenCraneGolf) - Ben is definitely one of my favorite players on the PGA Tour, and one of the most entertaining guys off the course. I think Ben will have a stand out year in 2013 and will bring home at least one Tour victory.
Ryan Moore - Ryan Moore has an interesting story and still seems to fly under the radar a lot of the time. I've been watching him slowly climb the ranks and expect that to continue this season as he looks to improve his current 40 place in the world rankings. I think he'll pull off at least one victory this season, possibly even a major.
Graham DeLaet (@GrahamDeLaet) - Currently 177th on the world rankings list, Graham is a diamond in the rough and I fully expect him to improve upon that ranking. I'm not expecting any miracles, but I'll be keeping an eye on Graham and cheering him on.
