Does a Golf Course need to be over 6,500 Yards?

[JESII]

Very close to mine...#12 is the only real difference.

I'll be curious if they plan from the tee to come in with less spin.

[Jim Eder]

Thanks Ryan, seems like we all are on the same page. Interesting thought about 12.............

[Dan Boerger]

Jim - Just pure distance. Average driving distance didn't come as a shock, it was the occasional 350 yard bomb. My son and I witnessed a drive on bounce into the right hand fairway bunker on #1. That's an uphill 340 yard poke. Dustin Johnson's Driver, 4-Iron to Nine also jarred me some ... 605 yards ... last 250 uphill!

[Jim Eder]

Amazing what power they have in reserve.

[Matt_Ward]

The issue of drivers at Merion will be determined by just how fast the course can play. If it's slow then more attempts with the big stick are possible. But when it's slow layigng back doesn't hurt you if the greens are softer.

The really strong players can afford tolayback and still hit high soft approaches to the targets.

Curious to see how they play #18.

[Jim Nugent]

Sully, Ryan, anyone who knows the course well: what do you see the players hitting into the various greens in 2013?  Lots of wedges?  A wide range of clubs?