Medinah's Driveable 15th Isn't Sounding Very Driveable

I know it's hard to believe that an architect who specializes in stripping strategy from architecture was not able to design a fun, sexy, tempting and interesting short par-4. But after today's remarks from Phil Mickelson, arguably the most aggressive player in the Ryder Cup who isn't the least bit tempted to go for the green, it sounds like Rees Jones came through again!

First, Cameron Morfit tries to figure out if it's wise for the U.S. team to drive the short par-4 15th, looking back at Celtic Manor's short par-4 15th for guidance. He also has a guide from Rees where there is a lot of description of risk and not much mention of reward.

CHUTE TO THRILL: The opening to the green is 20 yards wide, but it plays more like 12 yards. "Anything on the left side of it falls off into the bunker," Jones says.

HERE'S THE SKINNY: Even the cautious play from the tee is no gimme. "If they play it safe—2-iron, wedge—it's the narrowest landing area on the course," Jones says.

And Phil in today's presser:

PHIL MICKELSON:  My take on the 15th hole is that it's a reachable par‑4, but it's not really drivable.  I think most guys are going to lay up.  I just think it's over done as a hole that would try to entice you to drive it, unlike, say, the 10th at Riviera, which really entice is you and gives you options.

I think that it's an easy birdie laying up, and as disappointing as the fans are going to be to see that, we have to play what's there in front of us and try to shoot the lowest score, and the lowest score will be shot by laying up.