USA Vs. Jamaica, 2014 World Cup Qualifying: Match Predictions

The United States has never won a qualifier in Jamaica. They have gone down there four times and come away with draws all four times. Then again, Jamaica has never beaten the U.S. anywhere ever. Either someone will make history tonight or the match will end in a draw.

With the Americans and Reggae Boyz tied atop Group A in the semifinal round of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying, don't be surprised if the match gets heated. Also, don't be surprised if the match ends in a draw. That seems to be the theme from the staff's predictions, unless you hold a grudge against Dane Richards. It looks like history will have to wait.

Ryan: While the Americans wish Landon Donovan and Michael Bradley were healthy enough to play, Jamaica yearns for Demar Phillips. With both teams short-handed, things will get a bit ugly and a CONCACAF referee that calls the game exactly like a CONCACAF referee doesn't help. In the end, neither team can find a goal and the settle for a draw.

Kevin: Donovan's absence, Clint Dempsey's lack of fitness and Jamaica's speed up against a shaky U.S. back line are all serious problems. The United States still have the better team and I expect Kyle Beckerman and Jermaine Jones to control the game in the middle, but it wouldn't be stunning to see the U.S. get burned by one counter. 1-1 draw, but don't freak out about it. We'll get 90 minutes out of Dempsey and three points in Columbus.

Zach: Everything seems set-up for Jamaica to surprise the US. Dempsey's form and fitness are in doubt after his transfer window drama, Landon Donovan is not with the team, this really feels like a trap game. I think the US will be alright in the midfield and be able to control the game for the most part, but you have to figure at some point they'll be a break down that Jamaica can exploit. If the US is smart, they'll just play for a result and if they can steal all three point, even better. Prediction: 1-1.

Lauren: The US wins 1-0 on a goal that Dane Richards is somehow responsible for, because I'm a bitter Red Bulls fan who apparently can't get over subpar performances from three years ago.

That's an average of 1.5 points for the U.S., which they would probably take if it was offered to them right now. However, CONCACAF seems unlikely to accept half-points.

What do you think will happen tonight? Could this be the night that the U.S. gets their first win in Jamaica or do you see them taking less?