Bryson DeChambeau's biggest weapon at Pinehurst might surprise you

It's no secret that Bryson DeChambeau bombs the golf ball.

Just a few years ago, DeChambeau bludgeoned Winged Foot into submission en route to the 2020 US Open, the 30-year-old's first and still only major title. But after completing major rankings of T-6 (Masters) and runner-up (PGA), DeChambeau is on the shortlist most likely to challenge world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler at No. 2 Pinehurst.

He'll just have to do things a little differently.

“They’re completely different golf courses,” DeChambeau said of Winged Foot and Donald Ross’ classic gem, Sandhills. “I would say most of the time you need to focus on your wedge game around the greens. [at Pinehurst]. You're not going to hit every green. Your putting and timing must be impeccable to be able to participate in this major championship and on this site.

“Winged Foot was a bit of a different strategy, so most people would say [of Pinehurst], it's probably not what suits me best, I would say. But I think I'm a good chipper and putter on the greens.

DeChambeau knows he's going to have to work out some kinks with his iron play in this “ball striker's paradise” and hit it conservatively while finding the center of these turtleback greens. But in a sense, the challenge posed by No. 2 in approach might be enough to move the divider toward, as DeChambeau says, the short game and putting. (In other words, everyone will be working harder than usual.)

It’s these finesse aspects of the game that DeChambeau feels most confident in right now. Do not drive. Not a game of iron.

“People are going to be like, 'What is he talking about?' he goes far, and it works to his advantage and so on,” added DeChambeau. “But I think personally for me, my chipping and my putting around the greens is what’s going to help give me a good chance.”

DeChambeau, who grew up on bentgrass and poa greens, has gained confidence rolling the ball in Bermuda in recent years. He's also limited the number of putts he makes, focusing on keeping his shoulder line square instead of opening them up through impact. When it comes to chipping this week, DeChambeau is ready to use the putter or his highest wedges, and probably nothing in between.

At the PGA, DeChambeau ranked 19th in strokes gained putting and sixth in strokes gained around the green.

“It’s funny, I didn’t ride very well at Augusta; I was pretty disappointed,” DeChambeau said. “I worked really hard and found something during Valhalla week with my putting.

“From there, it was just smooth sailing.”

He hopes to keep the wind in the sails at Pinehurst.