The Ohio State Buckeyes (10-4, 2-2 Big Ten) are set to face the Oregon Ducks (8-7, 1-3) in a highly anticipated NCAA basketball matchup on Thursday at Matthew Knight Arena in Eugene, Oregon. The game is scheduled to tip off at 10:30 p.m. ET and will air on the Big Ten Network.
In their previous encounter, which occurred last season when Oregon joined the Big Ten, the Ducks edged out Ohio State with a narrow 73-71 victory in Columbus as a 2.5-point underdog. The over/under for that game was closed at 149.5 points.
Ohio State finds itself coming off a close loss against No. 11 Nebraska, falling 72-69 while failing to cover as a 2.5-point favorite. Guard John Mobley Jr. led the way with an impressive 22-point performance, including five 3-pointers, while Bruce Thornton contributed with 16 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. The Buckeyes have struggled recently, going 3-3 straight up in their last six contests and just 1-5 against the spread during that period. Defensively, however, they have shown improvement, allowing 73 points or fewer in their last four games, with three of those contests finishing under the total.
Meanwhile, Oregon’s season has been marked by ups and downs, including a heartbreaking 88-85 overtime loss to Rutgers as a 4.5-point favorite on Monday, where center Nate Bittle stood out, scoring 28 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. The Ducks have fared better recently, winning four of their last six games, and boasting a 5-1 record against the spread during that stretch, thriving with an offense that has powered the Over in four of those outings.
As for the odds, BetMGM Sportsbook lists Ohio State at +110 on the moneyline, while Oregon is favored at -135. Against the spread, Ohio State is +1.5 (-110) compared to Oregon’s -1.5 (-110). The over/under for the game is set at 152.5 points.
For betting predictions, Ohio State at +110 is seen as a more favorable bet considering their current form, despite Oregon’s notorious home-court advantage at Matthew Knight Arena. With Ohio State aiming to strengthen its NCAA Tournament resume and Oregon struggling in conference play, the Buckeyes may capitalize on their recent defensive prowess.
Overall, while betting on Ohio State’s spread at +1.5 may appeal to conservative bettors, the best approach might be to lean cautiously towards the Under at 152.5, given both teams’ recent trends.
This matchup promises excitement and competitiveness as both teams strive for vital victories. As the season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how both teams adapt and respond on the court.