Ryder Cup matchups: Breaking down U.S. vs. Europe
Match 1: Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson vs. Bubba Watson and Webb Simpson
The Americans went 2-1 when they were paired at Medinah but both wins came in four ball when you'd think they be better suited for alternate shot. They're close on and off the course although their games are totally different. Watson's a bomber, Simpson has a great wedge game. Rose and Stenson have never played together before but you're talking about two of the top six players in the World Rankings.
Edge: Europe
Match 2: Thomas Bjorn and Martin Kaymer vs. Rickie Fowler and Jimmy Walker
Fowler proved his mettle in big tournaments when he put together four top five finishes in the majors. Walker has been steady all year. But the real strength of this pairing is their ability to makes birdies. Bjorn is an old head who once beat Tiger Woods in the World Match Play. Kaymer sank the winning putt in the 2010 Ryder Cup. He's streaky as we saw when he won the Players Championship and U.S. Open.
Edge: United States
Match 3: Stephen Gallacher and Ian Poulter vs. Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed
There are three rookies in this match and then there's Poulter, one of the best Ryder Cup players in recent history. McGinley's strategy is brilliant, match Poulter with Scotland's Gallacher, the local hero, calming him down if necessary. Spieth, who played very well at the Presidents Cup, and Reed don't lack for confidence but they'll never have seen anything like this. They're going to have to blow out the crowd.
Edge: Europe
Match 4: Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy vs. Phil Mickelson and Keegan Bradley
This as good a match as this Ryder Cup could ever produce. McIlroy, the world's best player, and Garcia, always a great Ryder Cup partner against a pairing that was unbeatable at Medinah. Based on their performance this year, the Euros would have a decided edge but there is an undeniable chemistry between Mickelson and Bradley. Bradley said Mickelson has really been rolling it well this week. He's going to have to hole some big putts.
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