The Golf Watch

Taking a closer look at the Campbell pick

I am more than willing to hear some explanations as to why the Chad Campbell selection was somewhat logical.  First, Gary Van Sickle of Sports Illustrated:

Upon further review, as they say in the replay booth, picking Campbell isn't such a surprise. Campbell, a Texan noted for his Ben Hogan-like flat swing and low ball flight, has had a quiet, solid summer. That, combined with the fact that the other contenders have all but disappeared since the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines, makes him a logical choice. Azinger's biggest problem was one the past three U.S. captains have shared: They wanted to pick the hottest players on the American side — and once again, there weren't any.

Is this a joke--what about Kevin Streelman and Brandt Snedeker?  Streelman has been on a roll since the Travelers, and Snedeker is the reigning Rookie of the Year with top-25's at the Masters, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship. 

Plus, if you're looking at Campbell for his Ryder Cup 'expertise', don't count on it.  He is 1-3-2 in the last two Ryder Cups.  If you're looking for someone with fond Ryder Cup memories and plenty of experience under his belt, a good ball-striker, while still being a surprise pick, why not a guy like Scott Verplank?

With all of the time in the world to think about these four picks, you would figure Zinger could do better than 3 for 4.

Perry, Campbell, Micheel deal with issues off the course

In 2005, David Toms was forced to resolve a contract dispute with his agent, David Parker, formerly of Links Sports Management Group.  Toms filed a lawsuit against Parker and the matter was eventually settled out of court.  Three years later, Kenny Perry, Chad Campbell, and Shaun Micheel are in the same "contractual mess" with Parker, who left Links Sports last year.  According to Perry, Parker wants more money than he deserves. Perry told Doug Ferguson of the AP, "I was the first guy with him (Parker). I got him in the business.  I should have known a red flag was up when David Toms sued him."  Despite the distraction, Perry is in contention this week at the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic and Campbell and Micheel both made the cut.  "I’m just trying to get everything settled with him and get on my way," said a disappointed Campbell. 

Campbell wins Viking Classic, moves up 30 spots in world golf ranking

It has been a tough year for Chad Campbell.  He missed 10 cuts this season, and had only one top-10 finish.  This past week, however, Campbell stepped it up a notch, winning his first tournament in '07, the Viking Classic.  It was his first top-25 finish in three months.  David Branshaw squandered his two-day lead by shooting a 3-over-par 75. Due to Campbell's fourth career win, he moves up in the world golf ranking by 30 spots, improving to 67th. 

Campbell unexpectedly has share of first round lead

Two years ago, Chad Campbell was known as one of the best golfers in the world.  But since then, he has struggled.  Earlier today, Campbell showed signs that he can play the way he used to after firing a 7-under 65 at the Turning Stone Resort Championship.  Campbell shares the first round lead with Jeff Gove.  "It’s been a tough year for me," said Campbell to Dottie Pepper of The Golf Channel after his round.  "I’ve only had a couple of good weeks.  Here, lately, in the last month or so, I’ve felt like I’ve started hitting it better, putting it better, but hadn’t really seen any results.  Hopefully, today, will be a start of good events for the rest of the year."  Frank Nobilo said on the Sprint Post Game, "I think it’s crazy…He’s the player that we expected obviously two years ago to win major championships….This year is off the charts bad for Chad.  65 today ties his best round of the year.  So maybe, just maybe he’s starting to turn things around."