If you extende the butt of club towards the ground it shoud touch the target line even at the top of the swing.

Re: the higher ball flight - you may not be transferring your weight properly. Relax your arms on the backswing - a slightly bent left arm is desirable. Feel the weight go to the inside of the back foot. Now, swing your arms through such the you feel them pull you to the front foot. This is more an arm type swing but can really help you get your weight going foward. hope this helps mike.