It seemed like by Friday morning that everyone had forgotten Tiger Woods would not be playing in the Ryder Cup.  The Cup is just one of those events that can go on very smoothly without Woods.  The combination of the crowd, the format, and the purpose are way bigger than a single man.

Interestingly, enough, it seemed like the Americans performed better without Woods around to get in the way.  Of course, it would be silly to argue that the Americans are better without Woods, right?  Or is it?

In the Guardian in the UK, a closing story about the US team has this intriguing quote from Stewart Cink:

"Even though everybody likes Tiger and we get along with him, we all feel like we're more similar to each other," Cink said. "When 12 players walk out of a clubhouse, there's one cart to take one person and the other 11 have to find their way. That part will be a little different."

Not just a little different. The biggest compliment anyone could pay the United States this week has been that their team ethic has more than matched the Europeans' - no longer Woods plus 11 others.

It is something real to consider.  None of the boys had to feel like they were second rate with Woods not around.  The rookies didn't have to worry about impressing Woods or playing in his shadow.  All of the players could stretch their talent because they didn't feel confined playing with Woods.  They could really enjoy the crowd rooting for each of them because the fans took the time to get to know them individually.  It allowed for another leader.

So, with Tiger a lock to make the 2010 team, will the Ryder Cup be about Tiger Woods?  Will the media just go crazy at Gleneagles?