Sinking the Spanish Armada

Here's probably one of the craziest statements you'll read tennis-wise for a while:

The U.S. team can, and will, pull off the upset this weekend in Davis Cup! (You can exercise your right to vote here if you agree or disagree.)

I know, I know: A rookie's on the squad and one-half of one of the greatest doubles ever is out. The other team is led by a 22-year-old, who's already a legend. Plus, the hosts are playing on their favorite surface, one in which they've become pretty much synonymous with.

However, here's why I'm picking the U.S. for one of the most stunning upsets in Davis Cup history:

• Getting higher, baby: The tie is being played in Madrid, much to the chagrin of the players on the Spanish team, who think the high-altitude conditions will help the big hitters on the U.S. team. If ever there was a chance to play on a quick clay court and have a great shot, this is it.

• Net gains: As a result of the high altitude, there's going to be more of a chance for attacking styles to pay off, therefore resulting in the opportunity to knock off some easy volleys. If the U.S. boys don't take to the net at every available opportunity, they're crazy.

• Serving notice: Andy Roddick and Sam Querrey serve bombs, we all know that. But here's what needs to happen: They just can't go out there hoping to do that, despite the quick conditions. Busting kickers out wide will open the court for big inside-out forehands.

• Pressure's something that comes in tires: There won't be any pressure on the U.S. to win this one, so why not go out there loose? That's how underdogs pull off upsets!

There you have it: Why I think the U.S. will win this weekend. Of course, it's not outside of the realm of possibility for the U.S. to not even pick up a set, but if they put their heads and hearts into it, who knows?