The Big Ten heats up as the Maryland Terrapins take on the Ohio State Buckeyes in a high-stakes matchup tonight. Both teams are pushing for conference dominance, making this a must-watch showdown at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio. With Maryland’s high-powered offense and Ohio State’s ability to score efficiently, this game has all the ingredients for a thriller.
Date: Thursday, February 6, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Arena: Value City Arena Columbus, OH
Let’s break down the key factors, analyze the latest stats, and reveal why the best pick is Over 146.5 total points.
Maryland Terrapins: Offensive Firepower and Defensive Prowess
Maryland (17-5, 7-4 Big Ten) is riding a four-game winning streak, proving they are a legitimate contender in the conference. Their recent victories over ranked opponents, including Illinois and Wisconsin, have cemented their reputation as an offensive powerhouse.
Key Stats
- Scoring Offense: 83.0 PPG (20th nationally)
- Field Goal Percentage: 47.8% (Top 30 in NCAA)
- Three-Point Shooting: 37.2%
- Defense: Allows 65.5 PPG (35th in the nation)
Key Players to Watch
- Derik Queen – 15.0 PPG, 8.3 RPG
- Ja’Kobi Gillespie (G, Jr.) – 14.6 PPG, 4.7 APG
- Julian Reese (F, Sr.) – 11.9 PPG, 7.1 RPG
Gillespie has been on fire, scoring 15+ points in four straight games, while Queen dominates the paint with his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities.
Ohio State Buckeyes: Consistent Scorers with Defensive Challenges
Ohio State (13-9, 5-6 Big Ten) has had an up-and-down season, but they remain a dangerous opponent, especially at home. They recently took down Purdue and Iowa but stumbled in their latest game against Illinois.
Key Stats
- Scoring Offense: 80.0 PPG (Top 50 in NCAA)
- Field Goal Percentage: 46.2%
- Three-Point Shooting: 36.8%
- Defense: Allows 71.4 PPG (118th in the nation)
Key Players to Watch
- Bruce Thornton (G, Jr.) – 17.1 PPG, 45.9% 3PT
- Devin Royal (F, So.) – 14.6 PPG, 7.4 RPG
- Felix Okpara (C, Jr.) – 10.3 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 2.1 BPG
Thornton’s three-point shooting has been a game-changer, while Royal’s recent 29-point outing vs. Illinois showcased his offensive potential.
Why Over 146.5 Total Points is the Best Pick
1. Fast-Paced Offenses
Both Maryland and Ohio State rank among the top scoring teams in the Big Ten. Maryland plays at a fast tempo, while Ohio State has multiple scoring threats. The combination of these styles creates a strong case for a high-scoring game.
2. Defensive Vulnerabilities
Maryland has been solid defensively, but Ohio State struggles, allowing over 71 points per game. The Buckeyes’ weaker defense, combined with Maryland’s high-powered attack, means both teams should rack up points.
3. Head-to-Head History
Recent matchups have trended toward high-scoring affairs. Last season, these teams combined for 154 points in their most recent meeting.
4. Prediction Models Supporting the Over
Using five reliable NCAA Basketball prediction models, here’s the projected final score:
- Action Network: Ohio State 76 – Maryland 74 (150 Total Points)
- FanDuel: Predicted combined score exceeding 146.5 points
- StatSalt: Maryland 78 – Ohio State 74 (152 Total Points)
- Winners & Whiners: High-scoring affair, exceeding 146.5 points
- RealGM: Over 146.5 favored due to offensive efficiencies
All models indicate a close game with a total score surpassing 146.5 points, making this pick a confident one.
Final Prediction: High-Scoring Thriller Expected
Both teams possess elite scorers and play at a fast pace, setting the stage for a high-scoring battle. With Maryland’s offensive efficiency and Ohio State’s ability to push the tempo, all signs point to Over 146.5 total points as the best pick for this game.
Final Score Prediction:
- Maryland Terrapins 78
- Ohio State Buckeyes 76
Expect a thrilling contest with plenty of scoring action. Tune in on February 6th for what promises to be one of the most exciting matchups in the Big Ten this season!
PICK: over 146.5 total points LOSE
