Both number two candidates of the week botched chances to make a statement. Phil Mickelson overtook J.B. Holmes, then lost to J.B. in a playoff at the Loud Open in Phoenix. Ernie Els failed to make birdies and received tread marks on his back, courtesy of the putter formerly known as Eldrick. Since no one takes Ian Poulter seriously, including Ian Poulter, we can now eliminate three candidates from the mix for the present. Any fresh meat for the slaughter?