Big 10 as of 3/4/2024
Locks: Purdue, Wisconsin, Illinois
Probably in: Michigan St, Northwestern, Nebraska
Work To Do: Iowa
Probably Out: Ohio St
No Shot: Indiana, Minnesota, Maryland, Penn St, Rutgers, Michigan
Michigan St has lost 3 straight. They're starting to feel a little uncomfortable. A huge game at home Wednesday vs a banged up Northwestern bunch. Another loss and they are officially on the bubble.
Northwestern has been hit hard by injuries after losing Ty Berry for the year and Ryan Langborg dealing with an ankle sprain. After dropping a home game to Iowa, they need at least 1 win this week to truly feel safe.
Nebraska got a win over Rutgers last night. They are pretty much a lock but wouldn't want to lose that final game to an atrocious Michigan team. Nothing is for sure with a 1-8 road record in Big 10 play.
Iowa took care of Penn State and grabbed a road win over shorthanded Northwestern. They are officially on the bubble as one of the first 4-6 teams outside the field for now. A huge home game awaits next weekend with Illinois. Win that, they are looking pretty good to at least make Dayton. A loss, and they will likely need a 2-3 day BTT run.
Jake Diebler has given Ohio State new life. Every game is "must win" for the Buckeyes but they finish with a winnable road contest against Rutgers. Win that and they can play their way into the field in Minneapolis with a 2-3 day BTT tourney run. Another shot at Purdue may be in the cards in the Quarterfinals and would provide a major opportunity.