Europe

Although Casey's last victory in Europe was 18 months ago, his game suddenly came together at the British Open, where he tied for seventh. He then caught Nick Faldo's eye and became a captain's pick with four top eight finishes in his last six starts. Casey is a big hitter, the kind of player that Valhalla should favor, and he's gotten on a roll at just the right time.

Ian Poulter
England
Age: 32
Ryder Cup (1): 1-1-0
World Rank: 25th

RC Rank 22
[This article contains a table. Please see hardcopy of magazine or PDF.]

A wild-card pick who passed up the final European tour qualifying event to chase FedEx Cup money in the U.S., Poulter is set up as a potential scapegoat if the Euros don't win. Adding to his burden is that he was selected over beloved Ryder Cup warhorse Clarke. Poulter hasn't won in two years and has had only one top 10 since January.

Justin Rose
England
Age: 28
Ryder Cup (R): 0-0-0
World Rank: 14th

RC Rank 24
[This article contains a table. Please see hardcopy of magazine or PDF.]

Though he's known as a good ball striker, Rose hasn't had his best year in '08. He's losing tee shots left, and his iron play is off, especially from 150 yards and in, which explains why he ranks a pathetic 201st on the PGA Tour in birdies per round. Rose has not been a strong closer. Several meltdowns in majors raise questions about whether he can handle pressure.

Photo galleries from every session of the Ryder Cup at GOLF.com.