"It seems like a heavy burden of proof for the Tour to satisfy."

Alex Miceli does some bang-up reporting, confirming that the Tour and PING's John Solheim have talked and that a local rule banning the groovier wedges requires the formation of a committee to push through, and even then it's a reach that the tour can work around the USGA-PING settlement.

The Tour Policy Board triggers the committee’s investigation into the issue. It’s not clear whether the committee has been seated or not. Once it were to be in place, the committee would have a reasonable time to investigate any request.

After an investigation, the committee must reasonably conclude:

1) The equipment significantly affects the nature of the game of golf on the PGA Tour level;

2) The current USGA rules are not adequate to satisfy the Tour Policy Board’s concerns;

3) Legitimate interests of PGA Tour players, manufacturers and other interested persons have been considered;

4) The recommendation of the committee is considered the most reasonable in addressing the problem; and

5) A majority of the committee is in favor of the recommendation.

It seems like a heavy burden of proof for the Tour to satisfy. The grooves rule is here to stay. The question: Are the old Ping Eye2s?