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Breaking Down the U.S. Ryder Cup Team

Let’s break down the U.S. Ryder Cup team using the “Pod System” implemented so successfully by Paul Azinger in 2008. The asterisks are the Captain’s Pick’s.

Jay’s Group A

Tiger Woods*
Dustin Johnson
Bubba Watson
Hunter Mahan

Let’s keep all the buddies and long hitters together. They’ll all work well together as foursomes teams or best ball. Tiger can hold court with the guys who are still spellbound by him, thus keeping the morale high and chemistry bubbling in a good way. Tiger can play equally well with any of the three, and the others are equally interchangeable.

Group B

Jim Furyk
Steve Stricker
Stewart Cink*
Zach Johnson*

Again, all the parts are interchangeable, and everyone has the same phlegmatic demeanor. These are also the players that will all have to play over their heads and expectations in order to carry the team to victory. Furyk in particular needs to improve on an 8-13-3 record, (but 4-1-1 in singles…) This is his seventh Ryder Cup appearance. His best ball record is 1-7-1.

Group C

Phil Mickelson
Rickie Fowler*
Matt Kuchar
Jeff Overrton

Sources report and Waggle Room confirms Phil Mickelson vouched for Fowler with Corey Pavin. Phil, be careful what you wish for because if he flails, it’s on you too. Fowler is a kid abroad in one of the most hostile environments in sports. He’s ranked 118th in putting, 163 in sand saves, 55th scoring average, 92nd in scrambling and MC in clothing and apparel. Not good.

We’ll break down the Euros next, then interview 2010 course designer Bob Jones later in the month.