Wisc Softball Splits with Nebraska, Helps Michigan

The Wisconsin Badgers took on Nebraska in a double-header today with major Big Ten Title implications across the board.  After getting trashed 12-0 (5 inn.) in the first game, the Badgers bounced back in game two, topping Nebraska 6-4 in a what looked like a real thriller of a game (I was only able to watch the end of it).

This is a huge help to Michigan heading into the last weekend of Big Ten play, as the Wolverines now hold a two-game lead over the Huskers with just three to go.  The Huskers will most likely sweep a weak Indiana team, so this was probably the last chance Michigan had at getting a helping hand.  The Badgers themselves aren't completely out of the picture, sitting three games back, but they would need to earn a sweep in Ann Arbor and get a lot of help elsewhere.  Minnesota is also still in the picture, but a cancelled game earlier in the season means I don't know how the math works out for them.

Michigan has been struggling for the last week, and took a bit of a hit in the polls (fortunately it was not too bad - the Wolverines actually still sit in the crucial top 8 of both polls and are still in the top 16 in terms of RPI) and Big Ten standings.  Even so, by my counts all it will take is one more win to lock up at least a share of the Big Ten Championship, and two to secure yet another ouright title.  Wisconsin is a very strong team though, and the last week has certainly taught us not to take anything for granted!  If you'll be in Ann Arbor this weekend, you'd best get down to Alumni Field & get loud - this is a huge series and should be some great softball!