There is of course strategy. Understanding shot patterns, dispersion, lowest expected score, personal strengths, weaknesses, etc. All of them can be used to increase the probability of winning assuming even execution. (2/)

Which brings up execution. A player can work on improving execution of strategy through working on their mental game, commitment, technique, distance control, etc. Any improvement here can increase the probability of winning assuming even strategy. (3/)

There's a combination of these two, however. Looking at strategic benefits and trying to modify your game so you can execute in ways that allow you to take advantage of those benefits. Bryson is experimenting with this intersection. (4/)

Because here's the thing, if you can be a + outlier somewhere consistently, you are less subject to the influence of variance elsewhere. Your margins are no longer as fine. If Bryson can consistently dominate in driving at a significant advantage, (5/)

then winning becomes a little less about "luck". An average day with the wedges will still be sufficient to compete. An average day putting will still be sufficient to compete. An average day [insert non-driving skillset here] is minimized due to the driving gains. (6/)

As a concise example, an average wedge day might yield him an 0 SG:Approach, but his birdie putt proximity will still compare favorably to other players. (7/)

This phenomenon is why people make such a big deal about Tiger's iron game during some of his prime seasons. It was SO GOOD that he didn't need to perform great in other categories to win. And if he did perform great in those, bye bye field. (8/)

I look forward to seeing this experiment of Bryson's play out. If he can continue improving and maintain consistency, he's going to be on the leaderboard often. And there's a good chance he will win frequently. (fin)

Footnote: We should tap the brakes on assessing Bryson's progress and outcomes. Sample size, and do not forget that golf is a fickle game.