In the build-up to the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont, much of the conversation has focused on the rough. Not just it’s length, but the custom mowers the grounds crew have used to make the grass blades stand up straight, ensuring balls sit down in the thick stuff instead of stay on top. The results, at least through Tuesday’s practice rounds, speak for themselves.

If players think they’re going to find respite on the putting surfaces, however, think again. According to Golf Channel’s Todd Lewis, the greens are expected to run between 14’ 5” and 14’ 9” on the Stimpmeter, which is not necessarily uncommon for a U.S. Open. But when paired with Oakmont’s small, dramatically undulating greens, the results look downright deadly. Just check out a few of the yips-inducing videos that dropped on Tuesday if you don’t believe us.

Yiiiiikes. With Thursday and Friday and looking dry and warm in the Pittsburgh area, the greens could approach speeds of 15 or more by the end of the second round. Combine that with the difficulty of controlling spin out of rough as thick as Oakmont’s, and the field may struggle to hold the greens with their wedges, let alone make putts. Work backward from there, and it’s clear that keeping drives in the fairway will be of the utmost importance this week. If you’re a fan of U.S. Open carnage, this is music to your ears. If you like sub-five hour rounds, good luck.

RELATED: Rory McIlroy and Adam Scott reportedly battered by Oakmont during brutal Monday practice round

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Main Image: David Cannon