Thomas Bonk in the LA Times (reg req.) writes that the back nine heroics at Augusta were a product of the recent course changes and that rain caused the two-year window of dull changes. And Chairman Hootie Johnson responded to Bonk via email, which naturally produced some interesting comments and a misspelling. 

"All along, we thought the changes we made were appropriate and necessary to maintain the integrity and shot values of the golf course," Hootie said. "We wanted to adhere to the design concepts that Bobby Jones, Cliff Roberts and Alistair [sp.] Mackenzie had envisioned.”

Yep, they loved narrow fairways guarded by trees alright!

"Last year certainly was thrilling, as the best players in the world responded. The course setup for Sunday was consistent with previous years, allowing the players the opportunity to try for an eagle or birdie when necessary.”