Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Ohio St Buckeyes

February 2, 2024

An excellent Big Ten showdown awaits as the Ohio State Buckeyes (13-8) take on the Iowa Hawkeyes (12-9) on Friday, February 2, at 7:00 PM ET at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa. The Hawkeyes have a slight chance for victory, with a point spread of -5.5 (-110).

Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Preview

The Buckeyes are 1-4 over their latest five games, while currently on a three-game losing streak. Their previous struggle was an 87-75 defeat against the Illinois Fighting Illini.

Bruce Thornton does well in leading their offense, as he currently puts up 15.7 points and 4.3 assists per game. He also makes 40.9 percent of his shots on the floor and lands 82.5 percent of his free throws that could make an impact late in the game.

The Buckeyes consistently score an average of 75.1 points per game with a 44.7 percent success rate in field goal attempts. Their ball movement stands at 14.3 assists per game, but there's room for improvement in maximizing scoring opportunities by involving open teammates early.

Defensively, they limit opponents to an average of 69.1 points per game, showcasing a robust defense that bolsters their winning prospects compared to their offensive performance. Furthermore, they grab 38.0 rebounds, make 5.7 blocks, and achieve 4.2 steals per game.

Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Preview

The Hawkeyes have lost three out of their last five games and need to find consistency soon. Their latest matchup was a 74-68 outing against the Indiana Hoosiers, which put them back on the losing side.

Tony Perkins is just as important to the Hawkeyes as Thornton is to the Buckeyes, as he leads with 15.5 points and 4.1 assists per game. He is also making 46.9 percent of his shots from the floor and 79.8 percent from the foul line.

The Hawkeyes boast an average score of 84.4 points per game, showcasing a shooting accuracy of 47.4 percent. Their impressive ball movement, evident in 18.5 assists per game, creates superior scoring opportunities compared to the Buckeyes.

Defensively, they limit opponents to an average of 77.2 points per game, a respectable figure. Furthermore, they consistently grab 36.9 rebounds, record 3.7 blocks, and achieve 7.9 steals per game, potentially providing them with a defensive edge.

Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

Bookmaker has you covered with the betting odds for this showdown, as the Iowa Hawkeyes come in as 5.5-point favorites at home. The Hawkeyes have a 71.1 percent probability of finding success.

This will be a close game throughout and will likely not have the spread covered until late in the game. The Hawkeyes have a great opportunity at home and can take advantage of the struggling Buckeyes.

Final Pick: Iowa Hawkeyes -5.5 (-110)

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