I think what most don't realize titles mean nothing without consistency and the number of tournaments you enter.
For example, you look at the end of the last half of Norm Duke most thought he was the frontrunner. I said that was ridiculous since he missed two tournaments at the time and I believe he's missed 3 now. He's pretty much out of the race unless he does something unbelievable from here on out.
Jason Couch has been on fire this last half. Not the greatest first half at all. Not really horrible but he did have a few really bad tournaments. Missing cuts to match play in my book is a negative towards the POY race. HOWEVER, making 3/4 telecasts this half and winning back to back shows is HUGE.So yes, he is the frontrunner. He's also number 1 in points so really the consistency factor isn't that big of in issue with him.
Sean Rash also has two titles but suffers with the two show appearance but isn't even close to the top 10 in points. But if he gets strong with the rest of the season you never know.
At this point in time I also think Tommy Jones (who I predicted to win POY before the season) and Wes Mallot easily can still win the POY. Points are huge and they are in the top 5 with 1 title each. Also, keep in mind there is 3 MAJORS at the end of the season which hypothetically in player of the year awards count as 2 regular titles and nearly counts as a title for just making the show.
Outsiders right now are Walter Ray Williams, Doug Kent and Pete Weber with outside chances. But rumor is Williams and Weber will be missing the tournament this week so that's a negative.
Edited on 1/31/2007 7:15 PM