Today’s the big day. Does the USA Team show up and close the chapter on what might be one of the greatest Ryder Cup teams ever assembled? I wish that was the discussion after the fact, but they’re talking about it ahead of time which I don’t think bolds well for the USA.
I think we may look back and see a few differences that lead to the USA’s favor. One – we went to a system to allow the USA Captain more picks. With more Captain’s picks, the Captain can build a team to suit a course and suit what other players need for partners. In short, it adds flexibility. Harrington, however, made the odd choice to reduce his Captain’s picks from four to three. I know. I know. You don’t know what you’re talking about. Bare with me.
Let us look at the stats. The six American captain’s picks (Scottie Scheffler, Harris English, Jordan Spieth, Daniel Berger, Xander Schauffele, and Tony Finau) have gone 8-3-2. At the same time, Europe’s picks have gone 3-3. What have the bottom three players of Europe’s team contributed that were automatic qualifiers rather than give the Paddy some flexibility? Westwood, Fitzpatrick, and Casey are 0-7. Imagine how different things might be if Paddy had six picks like Stricker.
Let us get away from some of the analytics. You gotta love how much the USA players are doing to get the fans involved. How often have you seen players shotgunning beers? Not often.
I’d be amiss if I didn’t share the interview with MJ at the Ryder Cup
Go team USA!