The Silent Assassin: Xander Schauffele's Ruthless Efficiency

While Jordan Spieth provides the chaos and Justin Thomas provides the fire, Xander Schauffele provides the ice. The "X-Man" has arguably become the most reliable player on Team USA, operating with a ruthless, almost mechanical efficiency that is terrifying in match play.

Statistical Perfection

Schauffele is the darling of the analytics era because he has no weaknesses.

• Strokes Gained: He consistently ranks in the top 10 in every major strokes gained category: Off-the-Tee, Approach, Around the Green, and Putting.
• The "Glue" Guy: Because his game is so complete, he can partner with anyone. He has won points with the volatile Patrick Cantlay and the bomber Dustin Johnson. He adapts his game to fit his partner's needs.

Under Pressure

Schauffele's resting heart rate seems to act as a coolant for the entire team. At Bethpage Black, when the crowd became manic, Schauffele walked the fairways with the same stoic expression he wears during a Tuesday practice round.

• Clutch Putting: His ability to hole 6-footers for par is unmatched. These are the putts that stop an opponent's momentum dead in its tracks.

The Verdict

He may not produce the viral soundbites or the chest-thumping celebrations, but Xander Schauffele is the first name a captain puts on the team sheet. He is a point-winning machine, engineered for the modern game.