After the end of their two-game winning streak in heartbreaking fashion, the Illini find themselves with their backs against the wall. With inspired play against the Buckeyes and multiple chances to close out a win, Illinois fell short after being outscored 15-4 to close the game.
Now, Illinois finds itself in a precarious position. Should they have any aspirations of an NCAA Tournament berth, nothing short of winning out the rest of the regular season will do it. In fact, that may not even be enough to garner an at-large bid.
At this time, it appears it may be Big Ten Tournament Championship or bust for Underwood’s squad in Year One.