Arizona State Alum Phil Mickelson Has (Another) Chance to Grab Number One World Ranking at U.S. Open This Weekend

http://pendletonpanther.files.wordpress.com

Phil Mickelson

​There will be storylines aplenty when U.S. Open tees off tomorrow in Pebble Beach, California. Can Tiger Woods add another major title in his quest to break Jack Nicklaus' all-time record? Will a no-name player surprise the golf world?

But Valley sports fans should keep an eye on ASU alum Phil Mickelson as he tries (again) to pass Woods as the top-ranked player in the world.

Lefty's had his chances before, but -- much like the story of his carreer -- hasn't come through in the clutch.

If there is anytime for Mickelson to shake his demons and finally pass Woods, this is it.

Tiger's personal life is still affecting him on the course, as he hasn't looked sharp enough to win in recent tournaments.

Phil doesn't even have to win the whole tournament this weekend to overtake Woods. All he needs is a solid performance, which he's certainly capable of giving, considering he does have four major titles under his belt.

Obviously, if Lefty wins the whole thing this weekend, then he becomes number one.

But there are other scenarios for Mickelson to grab the coveted spot:

* If Woods finishes out of the top four and Phil is the runner-up.

* If Tiger finishes out of the top 18 and Lefty places third.

* If Tiger misses the cut (which is unlikely) and Phil ties for third or better.

The chance is ripe for Phil at this very moment. It should also help him that he's playing in his home state, where he has won 12 times.

And of those 12 wins, three have come at the same course he's playing at this weekend: Pebble Beach.

Come on Phil, we all know you're a great golfer, one of the best in the world. But it's time to step up and prove it.