I've considered all the possible "If not JT, then ..." scenarios over the past 144 hours. I really wanted there to be someone other than JT to support. When I sit back and think about it, there isn't anyone. Not Cam, not Keegan, not Denny, not Lucas, not Finau.
JT has one of the best caddies on tour on his bag. Bones has plenty of international experience, and he will get something out of the two-time PGA champion. This is a PGA of America team, and that explains why only Koepka was considered from VIL.
JT cannot play any worse than he has the last few months. In addition, he'll be partnered in four of five potential matches. My guess is that he will play fourball on Friday afternoon. He has a slightly-better record at fourball than foursomes, and no reason to put him in the limelight, since he is likely viewed as the last of six picks.
JT shines on Sundays in Ryder Cup play. There is a chance that he could be the Curtis Strange/Jay Haas that falters, and another chance that he might not.
I'm happy for Burns. He was slighted by the USGA for a Walker Cup spot, despite being the top NCAA golfer that year. I hope for his success.
As for Europe, I anticipate that Rahm will get one Spaniard (possibly Larrazabal) selected. It will be a young team, so Fleetwood and possible Lowry will also be chosen. That leaves five other players. Be honest: who would you pick from the Hojgaard brothers, Yannick Paul, Adrian Meronk, Rob Macintyre, Victor Perez, et al? There really aren't any obvious selections from them.
This should be a very entertaining series of matches. USA has everything to lose, and Europe has everything to gain.