Finding the silver lining in Tiger's 3rd-round 75

Tiger Woods' first two rounds at the Hero World Challenge were impressive, causing a frenzy on social media, but it was a different story on the scorecard Saturday.

Woods went out in 4-over-par 40, eventually posting a 3-over-par 75, ending his chances of a sixth Hero World title.

For Tiger fans, however, there is plenty to be optimistic about when reflecting on his round Saturday.

Tough for all

While the former No. 1 certainly struggled to post a low number on the leaderboard, the same could be said for the entire 18-player field. Just five players signed for a card in red numbers, with Charley Hoffman and Daniel Berger producing the lowest rounds of the day at 2-under par. The current world No. 1, Dustin Johnson, shot the second highest round with a 76, while Henrik Stenson fired a 77.

Grinding all day

Tiger simply didn't have his stuff in the third round as proof from his opening tee shot that was pulled well left of the fairway. Woods, however, battled the entire front nine, grinding on every shot. The 41-year-old went 5-over par on the opening 10 holes, hitting just one green in regulation. The round could've been truly catastrophic, but he was able to settle down. Just think, this round would've been 80 last January.

"It feels good to be out here fighting again," Woods told the Golf Channel. "I've missed the fight and getting out there and competing and fighting against the golf course and the rest of the guys. It's so much fun."

Strong finish

As for settling down, Woods brushed home a big par-saving putt at the 11th, then made his first birdie on the short par-4 14th hole. Tiger dropped another budgie on No. 17, and hit his final seven greens to conclude the round. Essentially, Woods was able to make adjustments mid-round to right the ship, and will no doubt try to make fix the issue prior to Sunday.

Par 5 problems

After playing the five par 5s in 4-under par on Friday, Tiger struggled mightily one day later. The 14-time major champ carded two bogeys and three pars. If Tiger plays the par 5s in 1-under par - which is below-average for a pro - he's tied for fifth place.

Health

Woods has made 212 swings through three rounds and hasn't grabbed his back once. The goal was always 72 holes without injury.

(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)