So without defending champion, Tiger Woods, in the field, what is the purpose of watching the Buick Invitational, you say? The six-time winner of the Buick is at home in Florida prepping to welcome his second child into the world in only a few weeks. Having secured the title the last four consecutive years as well as in ’03 and ’99, Woods’s absence this week at the Buick has left the door open for one lucky pro to break the streak. We can only hope that come Sunday, the Tour player skillful enough to close the door and hold off the rest of the field does so with a little Tiger-finesse. No doubt the golf world will be taking note.

After all, the freshest memories of Torrey Pines marinating in fan’s minds are images of a wincing Woods serving it up to Rocco Mediate So Cal style. Perhaps the memory of the U.S. Open victory that never was still stings a bit for Rocco, as he joins Woods on the list of professionals not teeing up this week in the gorgeous La Jolla setting.

 Also, not in the field (and somewhat surprisingly) is Kenny Perry. After a triumphant playoff against Charlie Hoffman at the FBR Open last week, Perry is likely taking the week off to celebrate in his native Kentucky. According to the FBR Champion, his mom and pop haven’t been doing so good lately. We’re sure Perry’s win in Phoenix helped brighten their spirits.

The real dudes to watch this week are the young guns who, since last June, have been taking advantage of Papa Woods not being around.  Sitting pretty at  No. 11 on the Official World Golf Rankings is Camilo Villegas, who tore up the course with an opening round 63.

On Thursday, Villegas held the top of the leader board after a stellar eagle on the par-4 second hole of Torrey’s South Course. Nick Watney was one to watch on Thursday, putting himself in for a less pressure-packed round Friday after closing with a 69. With a win already under his belt, it’s surely time for Watney to follow up with a sophomore success. Scottsdale resident, Aaron Baddeley shot an opening round 66. And Phil Mickelson, playing a newly approved Callaway driver, looked to redeem himself in this, his second event of the season after missing the cut at FBR with a 7-over 149. C’mon lefty.

Catch all the Buick Invitational action broadcasting live Thursday and Friday on the Golf Channel and Saturday and Sunday on CBS.

 www.buickinvitational.com

- Nichole Brophy, Golf Editor. 

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