Big Play with Brad Redding

WHO: Tiger Woods

WHAT: 150-foot putt from off the green to set up a tap-in birdie

WHERE: Par-4 18th at St. Andrews

WHEN: Third round of the British Open

WHY
The key to Woods's win was his decision to putt, rather than chip, all of his shots from just off the green. Without having to worry about club selection, Woods could focus on line and speed, and he expertly hit a slew of superlong, curving putts to tap-in distance, including the bomb at 18 on Saturday that he credited with giving him the momentum he needed to win on Sunday.

BRAD'S TIP

Hit the Texas Wedge Like Tiger

Around the green, putting is the most reliable play if there's no rough between you and the hole. Use the same stance you would on a regular putt, but make these two adjustments.

1. Tighten your grip. Hold the putter as if you're making a firm, seal-the-deal handshake.

2. Use a bigger stroke going back and through. But don't try to hit the ball harder. The longer stroke provides the extra power.

Finally, be sure not to break your wrists (inset). Keep them firm throughout the stroke.

Redding teaches at Grande Dunes Golf Club in Myrtle Beach, S.C., and is a Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher.

... AND ANOTHER THING

"Ernie Els, who was 34th at St. Andrews and hasn't had a top 10 in a major this year, will continue to be a disappointment until he plays full time on one tour."

COLOR PHOTO

PETE FONTAINE/WIREIMAGE.COM (WOODS)

COLOR PHOTO

ERICK W. RASCO

COLOR PHOTO

ERICK W. RASCO

JIM GUND (BACKGROUND)

NO

COLOR PHOTO

ERICK W. RASCO

JIM GUND (BACKGROUND)

YES