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Ohio State Buckeyes vs Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Preview
The Ohio State Buckeyes look to defend their home floor at Value City Arena, while the Penn State Nittany Lions arrive desperate for their first Big Ten win of the season. Ohio State has been strong at home with a 10-3 record, but Penn State is hoping to break a six-game losing streak and prove they can compete against one of the conference’s toughest teams. With the Buckeyes favored by double digits, this matchup highlights the contrast between a contender looking to stay in the upper tier of the Big Ten and a young Penn State squad searching for a breakthrough.
Line Movement and Odds
Ohio State enters as the favorite, but Penn State’s ability to cover spreads makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:
- Ohio State Spread: -12.5 (-112)
- Penn State Spread: +12.5 (-111)
- Ohio State MoneyLine: -1093
- Penn State MoneyLine: +575
- Total: 154.5 (-110)
For live updates on spreads, totals, and moneylines, check the College Basketball Odds feed, which refreshes throughout the day.
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Matchup Breakdown
Penn State Outlook
The Nittany Lions average 71.2 points per game, with Josh Reed, Freddie Dilione V, and Kayden Mingo leading the offense. Reed’s 18 points vs Wisconsin highlighted his consistency, while Dilione’s 17 points showcased his scoring ability. Penn State’s efficiency (46.6% FG; 55.6% two-point FG, 92nd nationally; 9-10 overall record; 1-4 road record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score inside makes them a dangerous underdog.
Ohio State Outlook
The Buckeyes average 82.1 points per game, with Bruce Thornton, John Mobley Jr., and Christoph Tilly driving production. Mobley’s 22 points vs Michigan highlighted his consistency, while Thornton’s 20.1 points per game showcase his impact. Ohio State’s efficiency (49.3% FG; 13-6 overall record; 10-3 home record; 11-2 as favorites) underscores their strengths. Their ability to dominate at Value City Arena makes them tough at home.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on guard play and defensive execution. Penn State thrives on balanced scoring and inside efficiency, while Ohio State must rely on Thornton’s leadership and Mobley’s shooting to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.
Injuries / Availability
Penn State: The Nittany Lions report no fresh injury concerns heading into Monday’s contest.
Ohio State: The Buckeyes are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Value City Arena has been a reliable venue for Ohio State, where they’ve gone 10-3 this season. Penn State, however, has struggled away from home, making this a clash of home dominance versus a team searching for confidence on the road.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Ohio State 80, Penn State 70
- Penn State +12.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and ability to keep games close suggest they can stay within the number.
- Under 154.5 → Total play. Both teams’ pace points toward a combined score below the line.
Ohio State’s depth and home-court advantage should carry them to victory, while Penn State’s offense keeps the spread in play. Expect a moderately high-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Big Ten games often create unique betting opportunities. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s riding hot streaks. Premium insights in Buy Picks provide deeper reasoning behind each wager. For contests like Ohio State vs Penn State, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.
