The Masters: Top five storylines to watch this weekend at Augusta National

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AUGUSTA, GA – APRIL 06: Jordan Spieth of the United States tips his cap on the 18th green alongside caddie Michael Greller during the second round of the 2018 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 6, 2018 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

Just 17 players remain in red numbers at the 36-hole cut. Only five – Reed, Marc Leishman, Henrik Stenson, Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth – are within five strokes of Reed’s lead. Dustin Johnson and Justin Thomas are lurking at -3, with a host of players sitting seven back at -2.

While there are plenty of scenarios that could bring even more players into the fold on Sunday, barring some crazy scores late on Saturday, I’m looking at the players within five shots to be the real contenders on Sunday. If Reed gives a couple back, all it takes is a round of 71 or 72 and we’ve got some real drama heading into the final 18 holes.

Picture this scenario. Reed gives a couple shots back today, and he’s in the final pairing with Jordan Spieth on Sunday. Directly in front of them? Rory McIlroy, looking to complete the career Grand Slam, and Henrik Stenson just continuing to do Henrik Stenson things.

Patrick Reed has ice water in his veins, as we’ve seen so many times at the Ryder Cup. But what happens when the green jacket is on the line? That’s the beauty of the Masters, and why you can never really count anybody out until the end.

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