Lincoln Regional Preview
Nebraska’s baseball program, riding a 42‑15 season, enters the NCAA Tournament as the 13th seed and will open its first regional at home since 2008. The Huskers have a storied history in the tournament, having reached the regional final six times and the super regional four times, and they now aim to extend that legacy.
The opponent, South Dakota State, arrives with a 24‑31 record but boasts a strong 19‑4 edge over the Huskers in their 23 career meetings. The two teams met earlier this season, with Nebraska edging a 5‑4 victory on March 4, setting the stage for a rematch that promises another tightly contested battle.
On the mound, Nebraska will turn to right‑hander Carson Jasa, who sits at 9‑2 with a 3.76 ERA, against South Dakota State’s Sam Schlecht, 4‑4 and 5.88 ERA. Both pitchers bring contrasting styles, and their performances could heavily influence the outcome of the Friday 3:00 p.m. CT contest.
The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+, with veteran announcers Karl Ravech and Kyle Peterson calling the action from Hawks Field at Haymarket Park in Lincoln. Their presence adds a national spotlight to what is already a pivotal moment for the Huskers’ program.
Beyond the immediate matchup, the winner of the Lincoln Regional will advance to face the champion of the Auburn Regional, a prospect that has the team and its coaching staff focused on maintaining momentum throughout the tournament.