US Open Lessons - Why the US Open is Won Around the Greens
The U.S. Open isn't won by the player who hits the most perfect shots. It's often won by the player who recovers best when things go wrong. Bill explains why...
Your Scoring Profile
Precision starts here
The Distance Controller
This is one I see all the time—and it’s often misunderstood.
Your contact is likely solid.
But your distances aren’t predictable.
From 100 yards and in, that’s the difference between a birdie look and a difficult up-and-down.
What’s Costing You Strokes
You’re not missing badly—you’re missing just enough to cost you strokes.
• Shots coming up short more often than you think
• Occasional shots that fly long
• Inconsistent carry distances
That creates uncertainty—and uncertainty leads to poor decisions.
How to Fix It
You don’t need to swing harder or change your mechanics.
You need to build a repeatable system for distance.
Start by controlling:
- Carry distance first—not total distance
- Swing length—not effort
- Consistent contact point on the face
The best wedge players aren’t guessing—they’re repeating.
3 Drills to Improve Immediately
1. Ladder Drill
Pick targets at 30, 50, and 70 yards.
Hit each progressively—same rhythm, longer swing.
2. Clock System Drill
Assign swing lengths (8:00, 9:00, 10:00).
Match each to a consistent carry distance.
3. Same Swing, Different Club
Use different wedges with the same swing.
Let loft—not effort—control distance.
Where Equipment Can Help
Even with a good swing, most wedges lose performance on mishits.
When more weight is positioned higher in the clubhead, you get:
• More consistent ball speed
• Better distance control
• Tighter dispersion
That’s the difference between hoping—and knowing—where the ball will finish.
Start hitting your wedge shots closer.
BONUS
Download your free Short Game Guide and start improving immediately.
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About Bill Totten
Bill Totten is one of the most experienced wedge fitters in the game, with more than 40 years helping golfers improve scoring from 100 yards and in. As the former Director of Golf at Fripp Island, SC, Bill has worked with thousands of players—from beginners to low handicaps—focusing on the part of the game that matters most: the scoring zone.
His approach is simple—better contact, better distance control, and smarter practice lead to lower scores. The insights in your scoring profile are based on the same principles he’s used to help golfers consistently hit it closer and convert more opportunities.
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