Betting Buzz around the Ryder Cup

The Ryder Cup isn’t schedule to tee off until September 16-21st, but the betting community is already buzzing about the roster. Now that the PGA Championship has concluded, we can start focusing on what to expect from this particular team. Paul Azinger’s life just got more interesting.

For the Americans, Phil Mickelson and Stewart Cink lead the way as the top two ranked players actively playing. Mickelson is easily the second-best American born player behind Tiger Woods, and is joined by a flank of strong veterans. Justin Leonard, most famous for his 45-foot put that cemented one of the most thrilling comebacks in Ryder Cup History joins as the sixth-man.

Jim Furyk made the list nearly on reputation alone since his last few starts have been lackluster at best. Honestly, I’m not sure what Mr. Loopy Swing has to offer despite his experience and resilience in this event.

Kenny Perry joins the team despite his fight against a scratched cornea, and a missed cut at his only major appearance this year. Cink was absolutely delightful last season, but has missed the cut at the Open and the PGA Championship. Thankfully, six of the eight members of Team USA are tournament winners this season.

Newcomers to the squad include Anthony Kim, who posted a terrific outing at the Open despite the conditions. Kim has thundered to the forefront of the golfing world with his positive attitude, and even greater positive returns towards his betting faithful.

The other two golfers who joined the fray were Ben Curtis and Boo Weekley, both of whom are having decent seasons but don’t bring a significant push to the team. Since Curtis’ 2003 Open win, he’s been relatively quiet for the past half decade until recently. He finished second at the recent PGA and seventh overseas at the Open. Weekley was simply the best-of-the-rest.

When the Ryder Cup begins, Azinger will have to make two at-large selections to finalize the roster. With Woods out due to injury, who does he turn to?

Of the missing players that I like to make the Ryder Cup are Steve Stricker, Woody Austin and Rocco Mediate. Stricker is, by and large, the most important cog to the at-large selection because he has proven he deserves a shot. And who doesn’t love Rocco? He could be the emotional lift this team needs with Woods bowing out.

Amongst the rest include Hunter Mahan, Woody Austin and D.J. Trahan who are amongst the top-30 on the Tour. None of them have been able to protect their betting investor’s money with consistent top-10 tournament placings. What makes you believe that the Ryder would be different?

Europe will be boasting talent, confidence and a relentless hunger for the cup. With Padraig “Paddy” Harrington, a surging Sergio Garcia and Henrik Stenson leading the way, there are plenty of reasons for the Americans to worry.

Due to the unpredictable nature of match-play in general (Weir over Woods in Quebec, anyone?), the Ryder Cup will prove to be another thrilling event for the betting masses. Which side will you be on? More importantly, which matchups will boast a positive yield. Keep tuned to the Locker Room as we bring you consistent PGA updates on the Ryder Cup and all your online betting needs!