"The Match" has made quite a name for itself over the past few years. I still remember being so excited for the first one when it was Tiger vs Phil. Pretty sure they played for like a billion dollars of no ones money and if one of them broke 80 that day I'd be surprised. It was a shit show. I think most people would argue that they haven't lived up to the hype, and I'm not gonna lie, I agree wholeheartedly. But one thing is for sure. They are trying to figure it out. And i think it starts with the commentary. I don't care who is playing, it needs to be watchable and in order to be watchable, the people talking need to be funny. The Match isn't The Masters. It's a drunk Friday twilight round with your buddies. And they're slowly but surely learning to treat it that way.
It's important to remember that these guys are professional athletes. While some are entertaining, the fact is that most of them are bland. The comedy is forced. It's almost cringeworthy. So in order for these laid back matches to be fun and watchable, we need good commentary. Charles and Phil will bring that. Charles Barkley can get me to listen to clips about NBA basketball. That's saying a lot since I haven't cared a lick about that sport since Sal crossed me up so hard freshman year of college I severed everything in my ankle. And then there I am laughing at Charles and Shaq trying to keep a balloon in the air. The man can create chemistry with anyone. As far as Phil Mickelson geos, he's a witty guy. I could watch him dance and tell dad jokes all damn day. He knows what's funny and for some reason I can't tell if his delivery is hilarious or horrible but I love it. He's self aware and it works for him. There's no doubt in my mind that Charles Barkley will bring out the best in Phil.
This could be a keeper team in the booth. I wouldn't be surprised if we see these two doing more together in the future and I couldn't be more here for it. We need to take every opportunity we can to bring funny, entertaining people into the golf world. It's great for the game and it's just more fun to watch. I wont be watching for Brooks or Bryson but best believe I'll be tuning in just to hear Mickleson and Barkley go back and forth for a few hours.
The Match - Friday, Nov. 26 at The Wynn Las Vegas
Coverage is set to begin at 4 p.m. ET with TNT, TBS, truTV and HLN all doing a simulcast.