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Ohio State vs IU Indianapolis Week 1 Betting Preview
New IU Indianapolis coach Ben Howlett brings his trademark “system” to Columbus for Sunday’s opener against Ohio State. The Jaguars’ up-tempo, full-court style comes straight from Howlett’s successful run at Division II West Liberty, where he made eight straight NCAA Tournament trips.
The Buckeyes finished 17-15 last season under Jake Diebler and missed March Madness for a third straight year. With veteran guard Bruce Thornton back after averaging 17.7 points and 4.6 assists, Ohio State looks to open strong at home and start a push back toward national relevance.
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Line Movement and Odds
According to the latest NCAA basketball odds Ohio State opened as a -27.5 favorite with a total around 152.5. Early action pushed the total slightly higher to 154, with about 65% of public money backing the Buckeyes.
Sharp bettors have been more cautious, showing interest in IU Indy’s pace and potential to score late against second units. The moneyline sits around -7000 for Ohio State and +2200 for IU Indianapolis.
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Matchup Breakdown
Howlett’s “five-out” scheme emphasizes spacing, constant movement, and 40 minutes of pressure defense. That aggressive approach will test Ohio State’s conditioning early.
The Buckeyes, led by Thornton and forward Devin Royal, should dominate in transition and on the glass. Ohio State ranked in the top 40 nationally last year in offensive rebounding rate and returns a strong frontcourt rotation.
IU Indianapolis, meanwhile, will rely on transfers from West Liberty who already know the system. Expect them to push tempo and shoot plenty of threes, but size could be an issue against Big Ten physicality.
Ohio State has covered four of its last five openers, and Diebler’s squad was 6-3 ATS at home last November.
Injuries and Conditions
Ohio State: No major injuries reported heading into Sunday. Depth guard Bowen Hardman (ankle) was limited in practice but expected to be available. See the full Ohio State injury report for updates.
IU Indianapolis: Forward Jaquan Roberts (knee) remains questionable, while transfer guard Elijah Saunders (conditioning) could be on a minutes limit. Check the IU Indianapolis injury report closer to tip.
The game will be played indoors at Value City Arena, so no weather impact is expected.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Ohio State’s depth, pace control, and defensive rebounding should overwhelm a smaller IU Indy roster. The Jaguars’ style creates volatility, but the Buckeyes have too much talent and experience.
Projected Score: Ohio State 93, IU Indianapolis 65
Best Bet: Over 153.5
Secondary Lean: Ohio State -27
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