The American Spectator

The Spectacle Blog

Three years ago I predicted the U.S. would lose the Ryder Cup, and they did. Last year, when they were heavy underdogs, I predicted the U.S. would win the Ryder Cup, and they did. I hate to say it, but this year my premonitions are going the other way again. I see the International squad, a big underdog, winning a close battle.

Woods and Stricker are exhausted, Mickelson's back is hurting, Kenny Perry's mother just died, and Hunter Mahan can't seem to actually win a tourney and can't possibly be as good for a third straight team competition as he was in his first two. Justin Leonard is due for a really, really strong week, but I don't see Sean O'Hair or Lucas Glover getting hot. On the international side, Y.E. Yang has Tiger's number, Angel Cabrera is utterly unflappable, and Camilo Villegas may turn into the surprise start of the whole competition. Adam Scott has something to prove -- and he will indeed prove it. Els and Goosen will be solid and steady, and Robert Allenby won't miss a full shot (he may miss some putts) all week.

Obviously, I haven't mentioned all the players, but you get the idea. I see the International side as being more inspired, more motivated, and scrappier. The American side's greater depth of talent will keep us close, but alas, I see a win for the team of The Shark.