In 2012, when Tiger Woods finished 40th, the Masters did an 8.1 rating during the final round.

In 2013, when Woods finished in a tie for fourth, the Masters did a 10.2 on Sunday, an increase of 26 percent.

Tiger factor in play? For sure.

Both tournaments had thrilling playoffs producing popular winners: Bubba Watson in 2012 and Adam Scott this year.

It has been pointed out that last year’s final round took place on Easter Sunday. So that might have accounted for some of the difference in the rating, but hardly 26 percent.

The Saturday ratings also show the Tiger impact. They were up 24 percent (6.3 from 5.1). The additional viewers definitely tuned in to see how Woods would handle the aftermath of his two-shot penalty. CBS gladly showed nearly every one of his shots over the weekend.

Even when Woods doesn’t win, as long as he is in the hunt, TV wins.