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Ohio State Buckeyes vs Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview
Ohio State Buckeyes (7-1, 1-0) hosts Illinois Fighting Illini (7-2) in a Big Ten showdown on Tuesday in Columbus. The Illini are battle-tested after a rugged non-conference schedule, while the Buckeyes look to build on a strong start behind a breakout performance from transfer Brandon Noel.
Line Movement and Odds
- Illinois Fighting Illini Spread: -2.5
- Ohio State Buckeyes Spread: +2.5
- Total: 147.0
Illinois opened as a slight road favorite, with totals set near 147 points for this Big Ten clash. Review the full NCAA Basketball odds for market movement.
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Matchup Breakdown
Illinois Fighting Illini Outlook
Illinois has faced a gauntlet of ranked opponents, going 2-2 against top-25 teams. The Illini defeated No. 13 Tennessee 75-62 last Saturday, led by freshman guard Keaton Wagler’s 16 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Wagler averages 13.8 points and 5.6 rebounds, shooting 34.1% from three. Coach Brad Underwood believes the team is still rounding into form after limited practice time but praised Wagler’s maturity and ball security.
Ohio State Buckeyes Outlook
Ohio State opened Big Ten play with an 86-82 win at Northwestern. Brandon Noel, a sixth-year transfer from Wright State, erupted for 29 points and seven rebounds on 13-of-15 shooting. Noel’s emergence adds depth to a lineup anchored by Bruce Thornton, John Mobley Jr., Devin Royal, and Christoph Tilly. Coach Jake Diebler credited Noel’s improved practice habits and versatility at center for unlocking his production.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Illinois’ freshman standout Wagler versus Ohio State’s veteran transfer Noel highlights the matchup. Illinois relies on disciplined guard play and perimeter shooting, while Ohio State seeks to exploit Noel’s athleticism and inside scoring. Rebounding and turnover margin will be decisive factors.
Injuries / Availability
Illinois: Full roster available.
Ohio State: Full roster available.
Betting Trends
- Illinois is 7-2 overall, 2-2 vs. ranked opponents.
- Ohio State is 7-1 overall, 1-0 in Big Ten play.
- Illinois won its last game vs. Tennessee by 13 points.
- Ohio State edged Northwestern by four in its Big Ten opener.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Illinois 75, Ohio State 71
- Pick: Illinois -2.5. The Illini’s battle-tested schedule gives them an edge in Columbus.
- Total: Under 147. Defensive intensity in Big Ten play keeps scoring modest.
Expect a competitive game with Illinois leaning on Wagler’s steady play and Underwood’s defensive schemes to secure a narrow road win.
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