Ohio State Buckeyes (13-8) vs. Iowa Hawkeyes (12-9)
Ohio State Buckeyes will face Iowa Hawkeyes this Friday for another riveting NCAA Men’s Basketball clash that promises to be exciting and pivotal for both sides in improving their standings and drawing attention from sports betting enthusiasts looking for reliable online casino platforms to place bets on this important match-up.
Ohio State Buckeyes have enjoyed an overall impressive season, averaging 75.2 points per game with an impressive 44.5% field goal percentage and 38.6 rebounds per game on defense and rebounding respectively. But recently they’ve struggled to remain consistent, winning only four of five recent contests overall and against the spread – giving Iowa Hawkeyes cause for alarm heading into this matchup.
On the other side of things, Iowa Hawkeyes have proven themselves as formidable offensive opponents, scoring an average of 85.3 points per game on 48% field shooting and outscoring many competitors with their ability to convert opportunities into points; as evidenced by free throw shooting percentages of 76.8% and 34.8% respectively. Furthermore, they appear to be building momentum more rapidly than Buckeyes; posting 3-2 record in their last five games, they appear poised for victory at this time.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Iowa Hawkeyes Game Info
| When: | Friday, February 2, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Carver-Hawkeye Arena |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Bruce Thornton (Guard) vs. Ben Krikke (Forward)
Bruce Thornton has played major minutes this season, averaging 33 per game across 20 contests. He’s been productive with those minutes, posting 16.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.5 steals per game. Thornton has shot the ball well inside the arc at 41.6% but struggled from deep at 32.4%. He has also kept his turnovers low with just 1 per game. His ability to create shots for himself and others makes Thornton instrumental to the Buckeyes’ attack.
Ben Krikke is the Hawkeyes’ leader in the frontcourt. In his 20 games played, Krikke has averaged 29.2 minutes where he has dominated to the tune of 15.7 points and 5.1 rebounds while shooting efficiently at 56% overall and 35.7% from three. He’s also adding 1.7 assists and nearly a steal per game. Krikke can score himself but also helps open things up for Iowa’s talented guards. His efficiency in moderate minutes has keyed several Iowa victories this season.
The battle between these two stars could decide Friday’s contest. Thornton brings dynamic shot creation against Krikke’s rugged interior play. If Thornton can penetrate and facilitate against Iowa’s bigs, it could spell trouble for the Hawkeyes defense. But if Krikke owns the paint area, Ohio State will struggle to keep pace.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As betting odds for the game are yet to be announced, bettors are closely monitoring the trends and performances of both teams. Given the recent form and head-to-head statistics, it would be advisable to consider these factors when the odds are released.
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Trends
The Buckeyes have struggled to cover spreads recently, going 1-4 ATS in their last 5 matchups. Ohio State is just 2-5 against the number in their last 7 road contests. However, totals bettors have seen success fading the Buckeyes, with only 2 of their previous 5 games going over the projected total. For the season, Ohio State’s road overs have cashed 8 times in 13 games.
Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Trends
The Hawkeyes have been solid for bettors during their 5-game stretch, posting a 3-2 record ATS. Iowa has performed well in front of home crowds, covering the number in 4 of their last 7 contests at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. On totals, 3 of the Hawkeyes’ previous 5 games have gone over the betting number. That trend aligns with their home overs hitting in 8 of 13 games this season.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Iowa Hawkeyes 2/2/24 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and considering both teams’ strengths and weaknesses, this game promises to be closely contested. However, Iowa’s superior offensive stats and better recent form give them a slight edge in this matchup. The key will be whether Ohio State’s defense can slow down Iowa’s high-powered offense.
In terms of NCAAB betting picks, the smart money might lean towards Iowa, especially given their performance at home and Ohio State’s recent struggles. Bettors should look for the over/under and consider Iowa’s ability to contribute to high-scoring games, potentially making the over a good bet.
