Tiger Woods: What Tiger Must Do to Stay in US Open Hunt

Before we're quick to assess whether Tiger Woods is "back" or not, let's examine what he must do to stay in contention at the 2012 U.S. Open and potentially win his first major in four years. 

Believe me, the most recognizable golfer on the planet isn't thinking any further than his first tee shot in today's second round. 

On Thursday, Woods' masterful one-under 69 at the grueling Olympic Club conjured vivid memories of the powerfully graceful command he once had over his game and the world of golf in the early 2000s. 

He followed a strict game plan to hit driver only when absolutely necessary, which led to an overt tee-shot confidence that laid the foundation for one of the best ball-striking rounds we've seen from him at such a demanding course in a long time. 

The distance on his approach shots were occasionally misjudged, but seldom were they miss hit, and he was steady on the greens from start to finish. 

Everyone's rightfully raving about the way Woods meticulously controlled his golf ball in the opening round, especially off the tee, when many of the world's best self destructed. 

Tiger's finely tuned swing, and more comfortable ball flight are precisely where to begin when projecting what he must do to stay in contention through the weekend.

As was thoroughly discussed during the telecast of his round, Woods is relying on a left-to-right fade shot more often than not. While this shot doesn't roll out as far as the more popular right-to-left draw, it lands softer, and most importantly for Tiger, all but eliminates the dreaded "block" to the right.

To hit a right-to-left shot (for right-handed golfers) the club must be swung from an inside-to-out motion. While Woods is certainly capable of making that move, during poor stretches in his career, his clubhead went too far from the inside, causing an open face that would result in a dead push to the right or a snap hook when Woods over compensated. 

This superb video cites a familiar pre-shot routine for Tiger and explains what he's trying to accomplish in doing so (FAST FORWARD to 5:43).

With that downward action ingrained his muscle memory, Woods is prepared to remain consistent in San Francisco.

He must continue to work the ball from left-to-right to properly manage his ball around the sloping fairways of Olympic Club. 

That's most important. 

Chances are, he'll occasionally be forced to hit a draw off the tee or into a green, but he shouldn't be restricted from repeatedly falling back on his go-to shot. 

From there, his putter must be essentially unwavering. Avoiding three-putts is a necessity. His Thursday 69 was indicative of terrific lag putting, as much as it was remarkable ball striking. 

If he can maintain good touch on the greens, while staying committed to his patented fade shot, Tiger Woods will be near the top of the leaderboard on Sunday. 

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