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The 80-year history of the US Masters adds another year to its garlanded legacy when the world's top golfers descend on Augusta.

But Tiger Woods is missing from this year's field due to injury and Sports Illustrated's Senior golf writer Alan Shipnuck who joined us on the show tonight believes the four-time winner's absence will not detract from the most exciting tournament on the calendar, although he feels his "absence will be felt".

And this year there is no clear favourite which is adding to the excitement and tension.

"It's the most wide open Masters of the post-Faldo era. Mickelson is the new king of Augusta but he comes in not playing well. Adam Scott and Rory McIlroy are probably the favourites but they've both had trouble closing tournaments out. Jason Day would be another pick but he's had a thumb injury. A lot of the top players haven't won this year or are fighting injuries. It's absolutely wide open and makes it more exciting," said Shipnuck, who says the odds are stacked against a debutant winner this year.

But he believes Mickelson could pull off a coup, given the "twinkle in his eye" this week and in spite of his poor form.

Shipnuck, who is at Augusta, also gave us an idea of the conditions, describing them as fast and firm and capable of providing exciting golf.

Europe's Ryder Cup vice-captain Des Smyth also joined Joe on the line and agrees that the course is "demanding" and stacked against 2014 debutants.

He believes Rory McIlroy is in a "good place" heading into the tournament, while Sergio Garcia "has the game to win" and would be a good each way bet but "lacks belief in himself".

He also likes Keegan Bradley's chances because he is a long hitter and believes that you "have to be a bomber to win the Masters".