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Northwestern Wildcats vs Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Preview
The Northwestern Wildcats host the Ohio State Buckeyes in Evanston for a Big Ten clash. Northwestern (5-3, 0-1 Big Ten) looks to rebound after a loss to Wisconsin, while Ohio State (6-1, 0-0) seeks to bounce back from a buzzer-beater defeat at Pitt. Bettors must weigh Northwestern’s home-court edge against Ohio State’s depth and injury concerns.
Line Movement and Odds
- Ohio State Buckeyes Spread: -2.5 (-110)
- Northwestern Wildcats Spread: +2.5 (-110)
- Ohio State Buckeyes MoneyLine: -145
- Northwestern Wildcats MoneyLine: +120
- Total: 142.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Ohio State opened as slight favorites on the road. See full NCAA Basketball odds for market movement.
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Matchup Breakdown
Northwestern Wildcats Outlook
Northwestern fell 85-73 to Wisconsin, struggling defensively and on the boards. Nick Martinelli, last season’s Big Ten scoring champion, leads the Wildcats’ offense. Coach Chris Collins emphasized grit and toughness after the team failed to force a turnover in the first half vs the Badgers. Northwestern averages 74 points per game and relies on Martinelli’s scoring and Arrinten Page’s presence inside to compete.
Ohio State Buckeyes Outlook
Ohio State lost 67-66 at Pitt but remains 6-1 overall. Christoph Tilly (15.3 points, 5.3 rebounds) and John Mobley Jr. (14.9 points) are key contributors, though both are dealing with injuries. Coach Jake Diebler praised Martinelli’s talent but believes his team’s depth can prevail. The Buckeyes average 78 points per game and play strong defense, holding opponents under 70 points in four of six wins.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Northwestern’s scoring through Martinelli vs Ohio State’s defensive rotations. The Wildcats must show more toughness on the boards, while the Buckeyes need Tilly and Mobley healthy to maintain offensive balance.
Injuries / Availability
Northwestern: No major injuries reported, Martinelli and Page lead the lineup.
Ohio State: John Mobley Jr. (ankle) and Christoph Tilly (lower body) are questionable.
Betting Trends
- Northwestern is 5-3 overall, 0-1 in Big Ten play.
- Northwestern averages 74 points per game.
- Ohio State is 6-1 overall, 0-0 in Big Ten play.
- Ohio State averages 78 points per game and plays strong defense.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Ohio State 74, Northwestern 70
- Ohio State -2.5 (-110) → Best Bet. Buckeyes’ depth and defense suggest they cover.
- Under 142.5 (-110) → Total. Both teams’ defensive focus leans under despite offensive talent.
Ohio State’s balance and defensive edge should secure the win, while Northwestern’s Martinelli keeps it close. Expect a competitive game trending under the total.
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