Ohio St. Buckeyes vs Kentucky Wildcats Betting Picks & Predictions

Game outlook

The Ohio State Buckeyes (7-4) are gearing up to take on the Kentucky Wildcats (10-1) in a highly anticipated matchup at Madison Square Garden as part of the CBS Sports Classic. The last time these two teams met on December 21, 2019, Ohio State came out on top with a 71-65 victory in Las Vegas. Kentucky is currently favored in the betting odds, opening at -7.5 and now standing at -8.5. Be sure to follow the action to see how this exciting game unfolds.

Betting Odds

Moneyline: Buckeyes +280 | Wildcats -360

Spread: Buckeyes +8.5 (-110) | Wildcats -8.5 (-110)

Total: Over/Under 160.5 (-110)

Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Kentucky will win straight-up is 78%.

Ohio St. Buckeyes

The Ohio State Buckeyes basketball team is currently ranked No. 38 by KenPom, with their offense rated 37th and defense 54th. While they have had some challenges this season, including losses to tough opponents such as Texas A&M, Pitt, Maryland, and Auburn, they have shown potential with a significant victory over Texas. The Buckeyes have also displayed impressive three-point shooting, ranking 8th in the country with a 40.6% average from beyond the arc. Sophomore forward Devin Royal leads the team with 15.6 ppg and 7.9 rebounds per game. Looking ahead, the Buckeyes will need to maintain their sharpshooting abilities to take on Kentucky. Additionally, Ohio State is ranked 105th in offense, 125th in defense, and has a record of 21-12 this season. They have been hitting an average of 48.97% of their field goals and 66.67% of their free throws, while also making 41.33% of their three-pointers. Defensively, the Buckeyes allow an average of 38.79% field goals and 74.41% free throws, while also averaging 29.17% of three-pointers allowed. They average 35.80 rebounds per game and have an average of 10.00 defensive assists and 11.80 turnovers per game.