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West Virginia Mountaineers vs Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Preview
West Virginia Mountaineers (8-3) face the Ohio State Buckeyes (7-2) on Saturday night in Cleveland. Ohio State looks to rebound from a tough Big Ten loss, while West Virginia seeks to extend its defensive dominance.
Line Movement and Odds
- Ohio State Buckeyes Spread: -5.5
- West Virginia Mountaineers Spread: +5.5
- Ohio State Buckeyes MoneyLine: -220
- West Virginia Mountaineers MoneyLine: +180
- Total: 139.5
Ohio State opened as a moderate favorite, reflecting their offensive firepower and Thornton’s scoring surge. West Virginia’s elite defense and perimeter shooting have kept the line tight, with bettors expecting a competitive matchup. The total of 139.5 points suggests expectations for a balanced contest, with Ohio State’s pace clashing against West Virginia’s defensive discipline. See updated numbers and market shifts on the College Basketball Odds page.
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Matchup Breakdown
Ohio State Buckeyes Outlook
The Buckeyes fell 88-80 to Illinois despite Bruce Thornton’s 34-point performance. Thornton leads the team with 21.7 points per game and remains the focal point of the offense. Coach Jake Diebler emphasized poise and execution, noting the team must avoid self-inflicted mistakes. Ohio State averages 80.2 points per game and relies on balanced scoring from Thornton, Roddy Gayle Jr., and Felix Okpara. Their ability to rebound from adversity will be tested against West Virginia’s defense.
West Virginia Mountaineers Outlook
The Mountaineers defeated Little Rock 90-58, led by Honor Huff’s 24 points. Huff averages 17.3 points per game and leads the nation with 44 made threes. West Virginia ranks top three nationally in scoring defense (58.4 ppg allowed), frustrating opponents with disruptive schemes. Coach Ross Hodge emphasized discipline, noting the need to avoid turnovers and easy baskets against Ohio State. The Mountaineers average 71.5 points per game but rely heavily on defense to dictate tempo.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Ohio State’s offensive efficiency versus West Virginia’s defensive intensity is the focal battle. The Buckeyes must support Thornton with secondary scoring, while the Mountaineers rely on Huff’s perimeter shooting and defensive execution to stay competitive.
Injuries / Availability
Ohio State: Full roster available.
West Virginia: Full roster available.
Betting Trends
- Ohio State is 7-2 overall, averaging 80.2 points per game.
- Bruce Thornton scored 34 points vs. Illinois, raising his average to 21.7.
- West Virginia allows just 58.4 points per game, top three nationally.
- Honor Huff leads the nation with 44 made threes.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Ohio State 74, West Virginia 68
- Pick: Ohio State -5.5. Thornton’s scoring and Ohio State’s offensive depth should carry them to victory.
- Total: Under 139.5. West Virginia’s defensive pace points to a slightly lower-scoring contest.
Expect a competitive clash, with Ohio State’s offense proving decisive against West Virginia’s defensive grit in Cleveland.
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