Ryder Cup Schedule 2014: Match Play Live Stream, TV Coverage and Predictions
Both Tom Watson's United States team and Paul McGinley's European team have arrived at Gleneagles in Scotland, and each have begun feverishly preparing for the prestigious Ryder Cup. While the event's 24 participants continue their practice rounds, we can begin gearing up for golf's most patriotic event by compiling all pertinent viewing information.
Anyone looking to catch early Ryder Cup rounds live may have to stock up on coffee, as the time differential between Scotland and the United States is rather significant. Luckily, every moment of the action will be caught on camera for our viewing pleasure.
As we impatiently wait for the match-play tournament to commence, let's take a look at how to watch the event from wherever you may be, followed by predicting how it's likely to unfold.
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| Friday, Sept. 26 | 2:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Foursomes/Fourballs | Golf Channel |
| Saturday, Sept. 27 | 3 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Foursomes/Fourballs | NBC |
| Sunday, Sept. 28 | 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Singles Matches | NBC |
Live Stream: Ryder Cup Live
Predictions
Americans Will Keep It Close Early
The Europeans are certainly the favorites to win the Ryder Cup once again this year—and rightfully so. The gentlemen from across the pond have a star-studded cast filled with successful tournament veterans and, of course, the world's No. 1 player, Rory McIlroy.
Although, some dissension in the ranks may lead to changes in pairings, making the Americans better prepared. Due to a lawsuit between McIlroy and regular partner Graeme McDowell, the duo may not play together this time around, according to recent comments from McDowell during a press conference, via UTV Live Sport:
"I think tactically, Rory and I's golf dynamic has changed significantly from the first time we ever played together back in 2009 at the Seve Trophy, when perhaps the older brother/younger brother leadership role that maybe I had with him, that's changed. …
I've spoken to McGinley about this as well because he felt like himself and (Padraig) Harrington were the same way. They gelled well as a partnership in their early days, but when Harrington became the star (winning three major titles), the dynamic changed from a tactical point of view.
It just didn't work so well anymore. So I kind of feel that's kind of the way Rory and I are viewing this week.
"
Should McIlroy and McDowell separate, the change will affect the entire European team, as other players may have to be shifted to accommodate two of the team's most important golfers.
Meanwhile, the United States team—and its inexperienced players—have been preparing on a constant basis, tinkering with pairings to ensure themselves of the best possible chance of success.
Here's a look at Americans Bubba Watson, Webb Simpson, Matt Kuchar and Jordan Spieth practicing the fourball format on the 18th hole at Gleneagles, via Sky Sports' Instagram account:
This could be a big chance for the United States to keep it close through the fourball and foursome formats, maintaining its position to make a run at a big upset on Day 3.
Europe Wins Singles Matches
While the Europeans could potentially struggle during the first two days of action, don't expect that trend to continue on Day 3 during the tournament's singles matches. Europe simply has far too much experience—and previous success—on its side.
The most experienced players on McGinley's team are Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia. Each of those veterans has a winning record during his Ryder Cup career, and their combined 18 appearances have yielded a record of 46-24-10. That's just remarkable.
Poulter is considered a marked man at this year's tournament, and according to Golf Central, he's enjoying it:
In fact, the European team's only member with a sub-.500 record at the Ryder Cup is Henrik Stenson (2-3-2). However, even Stenson has a 1-1-0 record in singles matches.
On the other side of the coin, the United States has experienced players of its own. Phil Mickelson and Jim Furyk are the only players who have more than three appearances in this tournament. Combined, Lefty and Furyk have appeared in 17 Ryder Cups and have a record of 23-35-10. That doesn't exactly exude confidence.
Although, according to Mickelson's sponsor KPMG, Lefty is confident with Watson at the helm:
There are plenty of question marks residing on the United States team. After all, Spieth, Rickie Fowler, Matt Kuchar and Jimmy Walker have all been playing some solid golf this year. We'll just have to wait and see how they step up in this format.
As it looks heading into the 2014 Ryder Cup, the European team holds the advantage going into singles play. Even if the Americans can keep things tied through the first two days, expect McIlroy and Co. to win the majority of Day 3 matches.
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