Final Word on Injury Situation

If Michigan is going to come away with a win in Madison tomorrow, then Chad Henne will have to play. Unlike last week when his status was uncertain, I think it's safe to say he will play and is nearly fully healthy again. That is huge because with Ryan Mallett at quarterback, as much as I hate to say this, I don't think we would even have a chance. Saying that isn't meant to bash Mallett because I do think he'll be a great quarterback someday, but he just isn't ready, especially on the road in a tough atmosphere.

The other injured player that everyone is worrying about is Mike Hart. Personally, I think he will play, but the question is how much and how effective will he be. That is where the situation becomes cloudy. I haven't heard anything concrete about how hurt his ankle is, but I would imagine it can't be feeling very good after the Michigan State game since he seemed to have a lingering pain after the first quarter or around that time.

As far as Hart's status for tomorrow goes, as I already said, I think he'll play. The question of how long is going to depend on how the game goes. If Michigan jumps out to a comfortable lead then Hart could rest. On the other hand, if it's a close game, he will be needed, even if it's only for pass protection, because Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor just aren't very good at blocking for the QB.

One thing to think about when it comes to all of these injuries is that Michigan isn't alone. Wisconsin has had a lot of players hurting, and specifically that pertains to running back P.J. Hill. Hill missed the Ohio State game and it appears he will not play tomorrow as well, so that should help Michigan out to an extent.