The Ryder Cup captains just announced the pairings for the Friday morning matches:

First match: Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell vs. Jim Furyk and Brandt Snedeker.

Snedeker is coming off a victory at the Tour Championship. McIlroy is the best player in the world. Two Northern Ireland players against a veteran and a hot rookie.

Second match: Luke Donald and Sergio Garcia vs. Phil Mickelson and Keegan Bradley.

Garcia returns to the Cup after missing the European victory in Wales. Donald lives in Chicago and should be receive a relatively warm welcome. Mickelson has a losing Ryder Cup record; Bradley is a rookie.

Third match: Lee Westwood and Francesco Molinari vs. Jason Dufner and Zach Johnson.

The Duf is a rookie; Johnson is known for his wedge shots and short game.

Fourth match: Ian Poulter and Justin Rose vs. Steve Stricker and Tiger Woods

U.S. captain Davis Love saved Tiger for his cleanup spot. Poulter is among the most fiery players here. It will be interesting to see how Tiger reacts, given his poor record in team play.