Is it too early to make Ogilvy a Masters favorite?

I supppose Geoff Ogilvy suddenly became the favorite to win the Masters.

Okay, Ogilvy and Phil Mickelson.

Watching Ogilvy give a clinic in how to win a golf tournament Sunday evening from Kapalua was a reminder of how good he is when he's on. If there's a criticism of Ogilvy, it's that he's typically on in the early season then fades away when the weather gets warm around here.

His challenge this year is to sustain his level of play once the spring flowers have faded. He knows it and wants to change it. Still, he has proven himself to be among the top players in the game with one U.S. Open trophy and three World Golf Championship trophies to prove it.

No doubt the Titleist folks were grinning over the weekend, seeing the latest addition to their stable of clients taking apart the Plantation Course at Kapalua. His first week out with new equipment, he wins. Somewhere ad departments are busy.

The thing that impresses me about Ogilvy is how in control he seems when he's in contention. While Lucas Glover was coming apart in the final round, Ogilvy was rock-steady. He remarked that it was the first time he had to play to a number to win a tournament, knowing Rory Sabbatini had already posted 21-under par. He sounded impressed with himself that he did it.

He should be.

Not only is Ogilvy a superb player, he's insightful and not afraid to speak his mind. He's an excellent interview because it's obvious he gives thought to his answers. He sees beyond the obvious and has a knack for finding the essence of an issue.

And, he's on the short list of favorites at Augusta, already.