ONE SIMPLE CHOICE THAT CAN LOWER YOUR GOLF SCORES
One of the biggest mistakes golfers make around the green is choosing the wrong shot. Many automatically reach for a sand wedge or lob wedge when a simpler shot would produce better results. The secret to a better short game is knowing when to carry the ball through the air and when to let it roll.
WHEN SHOULD YOU ROLL THE BALL?
Whenever you have a clear path to the hole, consider keeping the ball low and allowing it to roll.
A chip shot is ofter easier to control because it requires less airtime and a smaller swing.
CHOOSE A ROLLING SHOT WHEN:
You have plenty of green between you and the hole.
There are no bunkers or obstacles in your way.
The grass is short enough for a predictable rollout.
Try using a pitching wedge, 9-iron, or 8-iron depending on the distance and amount of roll needed.
WHEN SHOULD YOU CARRY THE BALL?
Sometimes you need to fly the ball over an obstacle or stop it more quickly.
CHOOSE A HIGHER SHOT WHEN:
A bunker or thick rough separates you from the green.
The pin is close to the edge of the green.
You have limited room for the ball to roll.
A pitching wedge, gap wedge, or sand wedge can produce the necessary carry and trajectory.
Remember, higher shots generally require more precise contact and distance control.
MY SIMPLE THREE-STEP SHORT-GAME DECISION
Before every shot around the green, ask yourself:
Can I roll it? If the path is clear, consider a chip.
Must I carry it? If there’s an obstacle, choose a pitch.
Where should I land it? Pick a landing spot and visualize the rollout.
PRACTICE DRILL: CARRY VS ROLL CHALLENGE
Place three balls approximately 10 - 15 yards from the green.
Ball 1: Hit a low chip with a 9-iron.
Ball 2: Hit a medium-height shot with a pitching wedge.
Ball 3: Hit a higher pitch shot with a sand wedge.
Notice how far each ball flies and rolls. Repeat the drill to discover which shot gives you the most consistent results.
FINAL THOUGHT
The best short-game shot isn’t always the highest or most impressive. It’s the one that gives you the greatest chance of finishing close to the hole.
Make the carry-or-roll decision before selecting your club, and you’ll begin playing smarter golf around the greens.