The Grambling Tigers are set to square off against the Ohio State Buckeyes in an anticipated college basketball matchup scheduled for December 23, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State enters the game as heavy favorites with a spread of -27.5 points, and the total points for the game is set at 149.5.
For this matchup, analysis suggests that Grambling may have a chance to cover the spread despite the odds heavily favoring Ohio State. With Grambling’s performance under the spotlight, there is a potential for them to exceed expectations.
Grambling’s offensive strategy hinges on drawing fouls and getting to the free-throw line, where they are currently performing at a notable rate, ranking in the top 20 nationally for free-throw attempts. However, accuracy remains a concern; their top scorer, Antonio Munoz, is shooting only 62% from the free-throw line this season. This issue is compounded by a high turnover rate, as the Tigers average 15 turnovers per game, which significantly hampers their scoring opportunities. Their previous encounter with a power-conference team ended unfavorably, dropping a 40-point loss to Iowa State, highlighting their struggles against stronger opponents.
On the other hand, Ohio State finds itself navigating a challenging landscape within major college basketball, where they have yet to secure a victory against a team projected to participate in the NCAA Tournament. Their recent performance includes a close call against North Carolina, where they fell short despite a valiant effort. The Buckeyes’ roster features a balance of experience with players who have spent their entire collegiate careers at Ohio State, though inconsistencies have been evident.
While Ohio State is expected to dominate, certain trends suggest that Grambling could keep the game closer than the anticipated spread. Their ability to earn fouls might work to their advantage, and with a focus on capitalizing on their strengths, they could present a competitive challenge for the Buckeyes. As the game approaches, it becomes clear that Grambling is eager to prove their mettle against this formidable opponent.
With the dynamics of college basketball in mind, the matchup not only promises to be an exciting contest but also serves as a vital assessment of both teams’ journeys this season. The hope is that Grambling can leverage their unique playing style to create a more competitive game, defying the odds as they aim for improvement.