The Hometown Boy, The Nightmare Ending

Hello. Jim Furyk had all the stars aligned his way. They were playing the US Open at Oakmont, where Furyk's cousin was club champion. He'd grown up in the Pittsburgh area. He had hometown support. He finished 2nd last year, and won in 2003. When people think of Jim Furyk, they think of the US Open. And vice versa.
And here was Jim Furyk, standing on the 71st hole, tied for the lead after going 3 under for the last 4 holes. A 305 yard par 4. And he had driver in his hand. When I saw that, I thought of Phil Mickelson. It was so out of character. And after a bogey, Furyk parred the 18th for another 2nd.
In the press conference, Furyk defended his driver decision, saying he'd do it again. He also said he hit it 20 yards farther than normal, which gave him the bad angle that led to two more shots to reach the green and two putts.
All I can say is Angel Cabrera was 65 yards away on that hole after hitting an iron. An iron! If Furyk's objective was not to reach the green, then why did he use driver? I don't think there's any other explanation than he had a brain cramp.
Furyk may now be the new "old Phil Mickelson". The one who throws away tournaments. Furyk gets close regularly, but has surprisingly few victories. It may be time for him to take a course management class.

Regards,
Steve