2014 Ryder Cup: 5 Bold Predictions for Team Europe

No. 15 is a tough hole regardless of who you are, but its in between length is going to cause headaches for the European team. It is a 463-yard double dogleg with a prevailing wind from the right. The European team looks to be more aggressive which makes this hole even tougher on those decisions that fail in execution. Having to go left-to-right on approach shots coming from the left will not be favorable.

McDowell's leadership on the course is going to be needed, especially if Europe is unable to pull away from the United States. He is a grinder who will not give up. He earns respect and that could be enough to inspire his teammates. He's always a good interview too, so he will say the right things to his team behind closed doors. McDowell could be the unheralded leader no matter how much he plays.

Stenson has too much of a temper and his last appearance in the Ryder Cup was in 2008. The stage will feel new to him as he takes on the responsibility of being one of the highest ranked players in the world in the most high-profile event. Stenson finished the year failing to make the Tour Championship. Stenson is the first one going out along with Justin Rose, so he will have to show his worth immediately.

Poulter has won 12 of his last 13 Ryder Cup matches. He has never lost on the final day of the Ryder Cup. Martin Kaymer has said that Poulter is "different" in this atmosphere, so throw out his season. U.S. captain Tom Watson said that Poulter is their primary target and he may have it tough on Friday against Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed. However, as the weekend progresses he will be tougher to beat.

The odds have Europe winning by a bigger margin, but there could be some overconfidence. The U.S. has guys who don't know any better, so they could keep it tight until Sunday. The pressure is on Europe to win and they will prevail. However, that pressure could mount and lead to a final of 15-13.