Nebraska Cornhuskers (20-8) vs. Ohio State Buckeyes (16-12)
In the fervent buildup to the latest March Madness picks, Nebraska Cornhuskers and Ohio State Buckeyes will square off in an intense NCAA Men’s Basketball matchup this Thursday. Both teams aim to improve their standing heading into postseason play with this crucial encounter slated as an intense display of college basketball prowess.
The Cornhuskers come into this matchup with one of the most efficient offenses in the conference, averaging 77.1 points per game on solid 44.9% shooting. They excel at spacing the floor and moving the ball, evidenced by their 15.4 assists per contest. However, Nebraska’s defense has been lacking, as opponents score over 70 points on them nightly. They don’t create enough turnovers or protect the rim well.
While the Buckeyes score a respectable 74 points per game, they do it on low 44.6% shooting. They crash the offensive glass hard for extra chances but turn it over more than they’d like. Defensively, Ohio State utilizes its athleticism and length to suffocate teams, holding opponents to the third fewest points in the Big Ten. They also block over 4 shots per game near the basket. But foul trouble has been an issue at times. The Buckeyes aggressive style leads to frequent trips to the charity stripe for opponents. Their 16.9 fouls per game are worst in the conference.
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Game Info
| When: | Thursday, February 29, 2024, at 6:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Value City Arena |
| TV: | Fox Sports 1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Keisei Tominaga (Guard) vs. Bruce Thornton (Guard)
Keisei Tominaga has been a revelation in his junior season, averaging a career-high 14 points on lethal 45.8% shooting. He’s evolved into a dangerous three-point assassin, knocking down 37% of his outside looks. His elite off-ball movement generates countless open jumpers. However, Tominaga’s lack of size makes him a liability defending taller guards.
Meanwhile, the freshman Thornton has taken the reins of Ohio State’s offense. He scores a team-high 16.2 points on an efficient 42.5% from the field. An explosive athlete, Thornton constantly attacks off the dribble and finishes through contact. But streaky outside shooting and lofty turnover numbers remain issues for the young playmaker.
This matchup pits Thornton’s athleticism and aggression versus Tominaga’s shooting and smarts. Tominaga must run Thornton off the three-point line and force him into difficult mid-range looks. If Thornton can turn this matchup into an isolation battle, his quickness gives him an advantage. His ability to get into the paint and create havoc could be the difference for Ohio State. However, if Tominaga’s movement frees him for clean outside looks, his hot shooting could carry Nebraska’s offense.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds for the game yet to be determined, it’s clear that this matchup is seen as closely contested by oddsmakers. Insights or recommendations will hinge on the roles played by each team’s stars and the execution of their respective game plans.
Nebraska Cornhuskers Betting Trends
Nebraska has performed extremely well against the spread lately, covering in 4 of their past 5 contests. This shows that they are outperforming expectations and pose value for bettors. However, the Cornhuskers have struggled to cover away from home, going just 4-6 on the road.
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Trends
The Buckeyes have also covered 4 of their last 5 games, indicating that they are playing better than the oddsmakers have given them credit for. And Ohio State has been strong at home ATS at 5-6. The big concern is that just 2 of their last 5 games have gone over the projected total.
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes 2/29/24 Betting Picks
With Nebraska riding momentum and Ohio State playing better basketball lately, this game is very tough to predict. The Cornhuskers likely have more offensive firepower, while the Buckeyes defend their home court well. Consider taking Nebraska and the points in what should be a competitive clash. The under also holds some value given Ohio State’s scoring issues. For the best online betting experience, be sure to shop for the most competitive odds.
