The Ohio State basketball team is 6-2 on the season after a convincing victory over St Francis (PA). The Buckeyes will unofficially begin conference play with a matchup against Rutgers this evening. Tip-off is set for 7:00 pm ET from Columbus, broadcasted on ESPN2.

Buckeye Preview:

The Buckeyes bounced back valiantly from their tough road loss to Duke. Brice Sensabaugh saw the biggest improvement from his previous outing. He was able to score 15 points, grab two rebounds, and account for two assists. This was a much needed reset after struggling with fouls and poor decision making in the Duke game.

There were also a few other Buckeyes that were able to secure solid performances. Freshmen Roddy Gayle, Bruce Thornton, and Felix Okpara all tallied double-digit points. Bruce Thornton continued his early season success, scoring 13 points and knocking down three long distance baskets. Okpara obtained his first collegiate double-double, scoring 10 points to go along with 12 rebounds. Lastly, Gayle had his breakout, adding 12 points on a 5/6 shooting performance.

An easy win over St Francis was much needed for a Buckeye team coming off a tough loss. It was also a great opportunity to get some rest for your main group after a tough stretch of games.

A Look at the Scarlet Knights:

The Scarlet Knights are also 6-2 on the season, however, they enter with a ton of momentum. On Saturday they defeated 10th ranked Indiana by 15 points. So they should be more than ready for 25th ranked Ohio State.

The projected lineup:

Cam Spencer (G)

Caleb McConnell (G)

Aundre Hyatt (F)

Mawot Mag (F)

Clifford Omoruyi (C)

A familiar foe leads the way for Rutgers, as Omoruyi is the leading scorer and rebounder for the team, sitting at 15.4 PPG and 9.8 RPG. He has posed a tough matchup for the Buckeyes the past couple seasons and will look to do the same tonight.

The guards for Rutgers are also very talented. A new face, Spencer, transferred in from Loyola and has gone on to be the teams second leading scorer. Reigning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, McConnell, has picked up right where he left off with stellar defense to go along with 12 PPG.

Rutgers is a well-coached, experienced team looking to come to Columbus and record back to back upset over top-25 teams.

Expectations:

The Buckeyes starting lineup should be the same:

Isaac Likekele (G)

Sean McNeil (G)

Bruce Thornton (G)

Justice Sueing (G)

Zed Key (F)

Eugene Brown III will miss this game, as he has yet to play this season due to concussion protocol.

Rutgers is an extremely formidable opponent, that thrives off of defensive intensity and success. While the Buckeyes are the 3rd ranked offense in the country, the Scarlet Knights boast the 6th ranked defense. This will truly be a battle of good on good, with the victor likely being the team who makes the least mistakes. Although I do think Chris Holtmann’s Buckeyes should be on upset alert, I think he’ll have his team ready. The Buckeyes are a six-point favorite, but I believe this comes down to one possession.

Prediction: 62-60, Ohio State

Featured image: Jay LaPrete, Associated Press