CBS promises business as usual for Tiger's return

So now we know.

CBS Sports head Sean McManus told reporters Monday that Tiger Woods will be a big part of his network's coverage of the Masters when it takes over on Saturday.

``Our job is to cover what happens in the golf tournament," McManus said in a conference call with reporters. ``This year, Tiger's story is a major factor in the golf tournament and we are going to cover it fully."

Stop the presses: There's a golf tournament and a network is going to focus on Tiger Woods. How anyone will be able to differentiate between this Masters and every other PGA tournament involving Tiger Woods was not explained.

We're assuming that CBS has already dusted off the Tigercam that has been sitting idle since he last appeared on the network club in hand.

As for what the CBS announcers and heavy breathers will say about Tiger is another matter according to McManus. He noted that none has been told what to say or what not to say regarding Tiger's off-course activities.

Geez, imagine that: Jim Nantz, unfettered and devoid of the usual shackles, interrupting the tinkling piano to denounce Tiger for his infidelities, his boorish on-course behaviour and his inability to negotiate a driveway. Yeah, like that's going to happen anywhere but in one of McManus' nightmares.

His worst nightmare, of course, is Tiger failing to make the cut -- a distinct possibility considering how long he's been away. Even if that happens, you can be sure there will be plenty of time spent on how Tiger missed the cut.

Meanwhile, ESPN and TSN are licking their chops at a guaranteed ratings bonanza Thursday and Friday.