On January 2, 2026, the Ohio State Buckeyes are set to resume their Big Ten basketball schedule with a crucial road game against Rutgers at Jersey Mike’s Arena in Piscataway, New Jersey. The Buckeyes enter this matchup with an overall record of 9-3 and a conference record of 1-1, following a commanding 89-63 victory over Grambling State on December 23. In contrast, the Scarlet Knights hold a 7-6 overall record and are still searching for their first conference win with a 0-2 mark, recently overcoming Delaware State with a 65-50 win on December 29.
As the Buckeyes gear up for this contest, three of their next four games will be away from home, with a return to host Nebraska scheduled for January 5. Fans looking to follow the action can catch the game, which will be streamed nationally on Peacock, starting at 8 p.m. ET, with commentary from Ed Cohen and former player Evan Turner.
According to the latest odds, Ohio State is favored to win by 9.5 points, with an over/under set at 149.5. This matchup will be particularly significant for the Buckeyes as they seek to build momentum moving forward in the season. Their schedule continues with tough competitions, including matchups against Oregon, Washington, and UCLA, among others.
Ohio State’s previous games reflect their competitive season thus far, marked by notable wins against traditional rivals and tough losses in closely contested games. As they face Rutgers, the Buckeyes will aim to capitalize on their strengths and gain an essential win to enhance their standings in the Big Ten. With the season already displaying a mix of challenges and triumphs, fans remain hopeful and excited for what lies ahead as Ohio State seeks to assert itself in the conference race.