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LGHL What prop bets can you make for Ohio State vs. Michigan State game?

What prop bets can you make for Ohio State vs. Michigan State game?
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch

Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

If you’re betting on whether the final score is even or odd, you need to seek help!

Let’s be honest, in 2023, a matchup against the Michigan State Spartans isn’t what it was five years ago. The program is down bad, so playing them in primetime feels like a bit of a waste of electricity to turn the lights on in Ohio Stadium.

As of publishing time, the Bucks are 31-point favorites, and the total points line is set at 47. But betting on those boring traditional lines isn’t any fun. So, if you want to do everything that you possibly can to enjoy the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes’ night road game on Saturday, Nov. 11, perhaps you would be interested in what unusual prop bets our friends at DraftKings Sportsbook have to offer.

Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.

How Much Will the Largest Lead of the Game Be?​



According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the line for the game has risen a bit from 29.5 where it opened to 31 points, so the largest lead question is essentially whether or not Ohio State (or I suppose Michigan State) will ever have a lead three points above the spread. While the Buckeyes are 5-3-1 against the spread this season, they have not been an especially great covering team in recent years, especially when the numbers are this big.


However, Michigan State has been so lately, that a shutout, or one-score showing from the Spartans is in the cards, meaning that the OSU offense would only need to score five touchdowns or so — which seems reasonable — to potentially hit this number.

How Many Touchdowns Will Be Scored?​



Knowing that the spread is just 31 points, this one tells you a lot about how Vegas sees it playing out. Either, the bookies think there will be a lot of field goals kicked, or they don’t suspect that MSU is going to do much in the scoring department. If Ohio State covers and the exact total touchdowns number is at five, then the Buckeyes could get all of those touchdowns on their own with Sparty maybe contributing a field goal. Seems reasonable, and essentially what the oddsmakers are predicting.

Another reason why I always love this prop is because of how mixed up the touchdown totals are; it’s fun to see where things start bouncing around. It goes 5 to 6 to 4 to 7 to 3 to 8 to 2 all the way up to 9, then to 10 or more, one, and no TDs scored being the longest shot. The distribution of odds is fascinating.

The 5.5 total touchdowns aren’t all that interesting to me from an over/under perspective because I think that’s probably a fairly accurate line. However, I will be trying to decode the pattern in the odds breakdown until kickoff.

What Will the Winning Margin Be?​



Again, the line currently sits at 31 points for the Buckeyes, so it is telling that the lines get progressively smaller the more that the Buckeyes win by. Ohio State winning by 42 points is 3.5 times more likely than them winning by 1, and even that is more than twice as likely that Michigan State winning by 1. Vegas, like most of us, has no faith in Sparty tonight.

Who Will Score X Number of Points First?​



The answer to all of these is Ohio State. Just take Ohio State in all of them.

Who Will Have the Longest Touchdown?​



Again, why would you put money on this being the team that doesn’t have Marvin Harrison Jr.?

Will the Final Score Be an Even or Odd Number?​



This is for absolute degenerates only, but I need someone who is not completely worthless when it comes to math to walk me through why odd is a favorite here.

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LGHL Our streaming expert has the best ways to watch Ohio State vs. Michigan State for free without cable

Our streaming expert has the best ways to watch Ohio State vs. Michigan State for free without cable
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Syndication: The Providence Journal

Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

You’ve got a number of free trials you can choose from of various lengths and breadths.

Tonight, the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes look to win the first of their final two home games of the season as they ramp up for the regular-season finale in Ann Arbor and, hopefully, a postseason run to the title. The game will serve as the only primetime affair in The Horseshoe this fall, and to celebrate, OSU is busting out all-gray uniforms. While the Michigan State Spartans have fallen on hard times in recent years, the game should be an opportunity for the Bucks to get healthy and work through some kinks before things get real on Nov. 25, so you won’t want to miss it.

However, as cord-cutting has become far more the norm than the exception across the United States, it would not be a surprise if you gave up cable or a live-streaming service following last year’s season only to realize that it’s the day of the game and you have no way to watch it.

And I know it can be incredibly confusing to find the best way to watch a game in today’s entertainment landscape. Fortunately for you, I am something of a streaming expert... no really, I write about streaming services for a living. So, I am going to walk you through the best — and cheapest — ways for you to stream today’s game.

Also, if you want to put a little money on the game over at DraftKings Sportsbook, not only would it make what could be a blowout even more exciting, but you could make enough cash to pay for a full month of cable or streaming!

How can I watch the Ohio State vs. Michigan State college football game?​


Game Date/Time: Saturday, Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m. ET
TV: NBC
Broadcasters: Noah Eagle, Todd Blackledge, Kathryn Tappen
Betting Line: Ohio State -31 | 47 o/u
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.

Best Streaming Option to Watch Ohio State vs. Michigan State: DIRECTV STREAM | 5-Day Free Trial​


Last year, NBC signed a massive new media rights deal with the Big Ten Conference taking part of the rights that had once belonged to Disney and ESPN. That means that every week, NBCUniversal will broadcast a prime-time Big Ten game on NBC and exclusive games on the company’s streaming service Peacock, which you can get for $5.99 or $11.99 per month.

Like with the Big Ten Network, every team in the league will have a game on Peacock at some point this season — OSU’s was against Purdue in Week 6 — and tonight’s game will be simulcast on the streamer, as is every NBC game.

So, if you are looking to stream the game, DIRECTV STREAM is your best option. The live TV streaming service has the only guaranteed multi-day free trial in the industry and provides the most top cable channels of all of its competitors. The basic, Entertainment package comes with all of the major network channels — all of which have college football — ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC. It also has ESPN, ESPN2, and FS1. Then, if you want to upgrade, other packages include the ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPNU, SEC Network, CBS Sports Network, Longhorn Network, and more.

What’s great about DIRECTV STREAM’s free trial is that you are able to sign up for whatever package you want for free. You don’t have to worry about being charged for upgraded plans. So, you can simply sign up for the top-tier Premier package — which normally costs $154.99 per month — enjoy all 140 channels for five days and then cancel.

Other Streaming Options for the Ohio State and Michigan State Game: ​


Fubo: $84.99 per month, at least a one-day free trial
Sling TV: $40 per month, 50% off first month (NBC is only available in 11 media markets)
Peacock: $11.99 per month on Peacock Premium Plus (NBCU channels only)
Hulu + Live TV: $69.99 per month
YouTube TV: $72.99 per month

Join the conversation​


Below is your Ohio State vs. Michigan State 2023 game thread. Be respectful, be kind and — as always — keep it classy, BuckeyeNation. If you like GIFs, lay ‘em on us. In all, be good fans, cheer for your teams, be cool to each other (even if somebody else isn’t) and everyone wins. Let’s finish the season strong!

Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.​


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LGHL OHIO STATE GAMEDAY: It’s a bad day to be a Michigan State Spartan

OHIO STATE GAMEDAY: It’s a bad day to be a Michigan State Spartan
Gene Ross via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: NOV 04 Ohio State at Rutgers

Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Buckeyes return home for the first of two-straight games in Columbus.

Wake up, everyone. It’s Ohio State game day!

With just three games remaining on the regular season schedule, the Buckeyes are looking to remain unbeaten when they take on the Michigan State Spartans at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC. The Ohio State offense is still trying to find its groove this year, while the defense has been strong but is racking up the injuries. These next two games against MSU and Minnesota are the last chance for the Buckeyes to get right and get healthy before a massive showdown with Michigan in Ann Arbor with a trip to Indianapolis on the line.

Over the past week, our talented group of writers and podcasters have put together preview pieces, analytical breakdowns, and everything in-between.

If you missed out on any of the coverage, we have you... well, covered. Below, each type of story is categorized. If you’re looking for podcasts and previews we’ve done, you can find them; if you’re looking for the betting lines and non-football topics, they are there, too.

Enjoy the day everyone. As always, Go Bucks!

Podcasts​

Previews​

Sports Betting​

Basketball​



Recruiting​

Other Columns​


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LGHL Tailgate Podcast: Everything you need to know to watch the Ohio State vs. Michigan State game

Tailgate Podcast: Everything you need to know to watch the Ohio State vs. Michigan State game
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch

Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

The only Ohio State game day podcast you need.

Before every Ohio State football game, Matt Tamanini will get you ready with all of the information that you need for that day’s game on the “LGHL Tailgate” podcast.

Listen to the episode and subscribe:

Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio​

No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes (-31) vs. Michigan State | over/under 47​


Game Date/Time: Saturday, Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Columbus, Ohio
TV: NBC
Radio: 97.1 FM/1460 AM

Today at 7:30 pm ET at the cathedral of college football known to the world as Ohio Stadium, the No. 1 and 9-0 Ohio State Buckeyes — coached by Ryan Day — will take on the 3-6 Michigan State Spartans under the direction of interim head coach Harlon Barnett.

This past Tuesday, the Buckeyes retained the No. 1 spot in the College Football Playoff rankings of the 2023 season. They remain third in both the AP and Coaches polls with three first-place votes from the media and five from the coaches. Michigan State is not ranked.

Ohio State and Michigan State have played 51 times dating back to 1912. The Spartans won five of the first seven, but overall, OSU leads the series 36-15, and they are on a 7-game winning streak. I shouldn’t have to tell you that the last lost to MSU came in 2015 when Urban Meyer forgot that he had Ezekiel Elliott on his team.

Michigan State has only won three times in this rivalry since the year 2000 and in those 19 games, they have only scored more than 20 points four times.

Matt’s Prediction: Ohio State 41, Michigan State 3​


Kyle McCord: 250 yards passing
TreVeyon Henderson: 150+ yards from scrimmage
Marvin Harrison Jr., Emeka Egbuka: 100+ yards receiving, 1 touchdown each
Ohio State defense: less than 200 yards allowed


Contact Matt Tamanini
Twitter: @BWWMatt

Music by: epidemicsound.com​

Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.​


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LGHL Ohio State falls 73-66 to No. 15 Texas A&M in wire-to-wire non-conference bout

Ohio State falls 73-66 to No. 15 Texas A&M in wire-to-wire non-conference bout
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

NCAA Basketball: Texas A&M at Ohio State

Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

The Aggies out-physicaled and out-rebounded their way to a big road win in Columbus Friday night.

After surviving a suprising upset bid from the Oakland Golden Grizzles earlier this week, Ohio State returned to the floor on Friday night, welcoming the No. 15 Texas A&M Aggies to the Schottenstein Center for the first time ever (these teams last played in 2007, but it was at Madison Square Garden).

Like the Buckeyes, Texas A&M also won their first game, although by a much larger margin — 78-46 over Texas A&M Commerce. They were led by guards Wade Taylor and Hayden Hefner, who combined for 35 points. The Aggies rolled into this game as the No. 21 team in KenPom. Specifically, they are listed as the No. 23 team in both offensive and defensive efficiency. Ohio State, on the other hand, entered Friday’s game at No. 46 in KenPom, and was the No. 24 offensive team and No. 70 defensive team.

Buzz Williams’ starting five was spearheaded by Preseason SEC POY Wade Taylor and fifth-year guard Tyrese Radford — one of the best backcourts Ohio State will face this season. Next to them was Henry Coleman III, Wildens Leveque, and Hefner. Ohio State went with the same starting five they rolled with against Oakland — Bruce Thornton, Roddy Gayle, Jamison Battle, Evan Mahaffey, and Felix Okpara.

Texas A&M jumped out to an 11-9 lead at the first media timeout, despite the Buckeyes knocking down four of their first eight shots. The Aggies were making Ohio State feel it below the basket on high-percentage looks, and were especially physical with Bruce Thornton. Taylor — the main defender on Thornton — and Hefner each knocked down three-pointers early for A&M.

The Buckeyes fought back and claimed an 18-17 lead by the under-eight timeout. They held A&M to 37% shooting through the first 12 minutes of the game, but fouls and the resulting A&M free throws kept the Aggies in the game early. The Aggies were particularly tight on Battle, who struggled to get open on the perimeter early, and didn’t take his first three-point attempt until nearly 12 minutes into the game.

.@OhioStateHoops ups the lead with a monster alley-oop finish from Roddy Gayle Jr.!

: @peacock pic.twitter.com/QWXe2lXTRH

— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) November 11, 2023
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By getting into the bonus late and going to the free throw line multiple times in the final two minutes, A&M was able to ride free throws to a halftime lead, 34-33. While the Aggies went 7-11 from the charity stripe in the first half, Ohio State went 1-5. In such a tight game, that was a big difference. The two teams combined to shoot 7-25 from beyond the three-point line, as this game quickly became a “who wants it worse below the basket” type of game. Gayle, Thornton, and Battle each had eight points for the Buckeyes in the first half. A&M was paced by Radford, who had 11.

The Aggies held on to a 38-37 lead at the first media timeout of the first half, and a big part of it was their offensive rebounding. A&M continued to grab the majority of their own three-point misses, giving themselves extra opportunities despite shooting under 40% as a team for much of the game.

The two teams went tit-for-tat down the stretch, alternating baskets for eight possessions at one point, as A&M held a two-point lead at the under-eight timeout, 53-51. As promised, A&M was extremely physical below the basket, but the Buckeyes out-shot them for most of the game. If the Buckeyes could’ve kept A&M off the offensive glass, they might’ve been able to build a sizable lead. That wasn’t the case tonight.

The Aggies extra effort below the basket proved fruitful in the end, as A&M was able to squeak out a 73-66 win at the Schottenstein Center on Friday night. The Buckeyes were the better team offensively from wire-to-wire, but were bullied on the glass and gave up a few too many backbreaking offensive rebounds.

If you weren’t around to see Ohio State drop a tough one to the No. 15 team in the nation at home to fall to 1-1, here are a few key moments and plays that made the difference by the time the final buzzer sounded:

One - Suspiciously late goaltend that was wiped away for Ohio State ​


After Ohio State started the game with a three-pointer from Thornton, A&M went the other way and Taylor had his shot rejected at the rim by Okpara. But after the ball came back down, the whistles blew and it was called a goaltend on Okpara, therefore Taylor was credited with the Bucket.

Roughly five minutes later, when A&M led 11-9, the scoreboard wiped off two points, tying the game at nine points apiece. Eventually, it was concluded that the Okpara goaltend had been changed to a block. It was very odd that it took five minutes and basically 10 possessions to make the change, but Chris Holtmann was not going to complain, and neither was Okpara.

12 - minutes until Battle attempted a three-pointer ​


A&M clearly had Jamison Battle at the top of their scouting report this game. The Aggies face-guarded the senior forward for most of the first half, a lot like what teams used to do to Justin Ahrens a few years ago. It wasn’t until the 7:41 mark that Battle was able to even attempt a three-pointer, which he did in fact hit, to give Ohio State a 21-17 lead.

Eight - first-half offensive rebounds for Texas A&M ​


Defensive rebounding was supposedly a focus of this team in the pre-season, but they struggled with it against Dayton in the exhibition and did again tonight against A&M. The Aggies pulled down eight offensive rebounds in the first half alone, and won the rebounding battle 23-15 overall. The coaching staff will likely point to long rebounds on missed three-pointers, as the Aggies did miss eight of them in the first half, but Texas A&M was just overall the bigger, stronger, and more physical team on the glass.

Four - consecutive points scored by Taylor early in the second half ​


After being held to just five points on 1-9 shooting in the first half, the SEC Preseason POY scored on shallow runners going towards the basket on back-to-back possessions early in the second half to give Texas A&M a 38-35 lead with 18 minutes to go in the game. It was a matter of when, not if, Taylor got it going.

One - set of Zed Key finger guns to take the lead with 11 minutes to go ​


Trailing 48-47 with 10:52 remaining in the game, Gayle was able to corral a missed three-pointer by Dale Bonner, and then find Zed Key below the basket. Key went up with it, drew the contact from Manny Obaseki, and scored, to give Ohio State a 49-48 lead. Key then gave the longest, most drawn-out finger guns he’s ever given, as the crowd jeered and cheered. Key missed the free throw, so Ohio State only led by one.

Eight - alternating baskets from 12:49 to 7:16 ​


For a stretch of over five minutes, Ohio State and Texas A&M exchanged baskets, one after another. Neither team was able to string together multiple baskets until the 6:21 mark, when Henry Coleman followed Wade Taylor’s layup with one of his own to put A&M up 57-53.

Because of the back-and-forth nature of the game, neither team led by more than four points for the first 14 minutes of the second half. Every offensive possession was an opportunity for one team to make it a one-possession game again, or stretch it out to two — never more than two.

One- crucial foul called on Thornton below the basket ​


Trailing 63-57 with 2:54 remaining, Thornton dropped in a scoop layup and was fouled by Taylor as well, completing the three-point play to make it 63-60. On the very next possession, Taylor took an ill-advised three from near the Ohio State logo, and it (predictably) clanked off the glass. Mahaffey grabbed the rebound, with a chance to tie the game, but Thornton was called for a foul below the basket, wiping away the rebound.

Radford knocked down both free throws, and instead of Ohio State potentially tying the game, they trailed by five yet again, with 2:37 to play.

Up Next:​


Ohio State (1-1) has four days off before they’re back in action on Wednesday night against the Merrimack Warriors (1-1) at home. Merrimack won the Northeast Confernce last season, but were unable to participate in the NCAA Tournament due to recently moving from Division-II to Division-I. That is what allowed Fairleigh Dickinson to slither into the tournament, and we know what happened after that!

The Warriors lost their top three scorers from a year ago, and register at No. 331 in the country according to KenPom. They also rank as one of the 15-worst offensive teams in the country so far this season.

Ohio State’s game against Merrimack will tip off at 7:00 p.m. and will be broadcast on BTN.

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LGHL Ohio State vs. Michigan State: 2023 game preview and prediction

Ohio State vs. Michigan State: 2023 game preview and prediction
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

NCAA Football: Michigan State at Minnesota

Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports

The Buckeyes will be looking for their eighth-straight win over Michigan State, which would tie the longest win streak in the series.

Following a couple weeks on the road at Wisconsin and Rutgers, Ohio State returns to Columbus for two games at Ohio Stadium to close out their 2023 home schedule. The first of those games will be on Saturday night, when the Buckeyes host the Michigan State Spartans, and next week they’ll host Minnesota before the showdown in Ann Arbor with Michigan in two weeks.

Following a 35-16 win over Rutgers, Ohio State remained atop the College Football Playoff rankings for a second consecutive week. While the Buckeyes wound up covering the point spread, there were some nervy moments for Ryan Day’s team in New Jersey on Saturday. Ohio State trailed 9-7 in the third quarter before a 93-yard interception return by cornerback Jordan Hancock gave the Buckeyes the lead for good. With the victory, Ohio State stayed perfect against Rutgers, running their record to 10-0 all-time against the Scarlet Knights.

Series with Sparty​


Now the Buckeyes turn their attention to Michigan State, who have ruined a number of seasons for Ohio State by upsetting the Buckeyes. In 1998 and 2015 the Spartans took down undefeated Ohio State teams in Columbus, and back in 2013 the Spartans beat the Buckeyes in the Big Ten Championship Game in Indianapolis.

There have been five occasions where Michigan State has defeated Ohio State teams that were ranked in the top-five. The Buckeyes are 36-15 all-time against the Spartans, but just 17-9 when they host Michigan State.

While Ohio State has had trouble with Michigan State in the past, beating the Spartans hasn’t been a problem recently. With a win on Saturday night, the Buckeyes would extend their winning streak against Michigan State to eight games, which would tie their longest winning streak in the series. Since taking over as Ohio State head coach, Ryan Day is 4-0 against Michigan State, with his teams beating the Spartans by a combined score of 191-49.

Bright night lights​


Saturday night’s game will be just the sixth November night game at Ohio State. The Buckeyes have won the previous five games in Columbus that have kicked off after five in the evening. The last November night game came back in 2020, when Ohio State beat Rutgers 49-27, but there were only just over 1,000 people in attendance since there were still crowd restrictions because of COVID-19. Prior to 2020, the last night game in November at Ohio State was in 2016 when the Buckeyes hosted Nebraska.

Along with this week’s game being the first night game at Ohio Stadium since the Buckeyes hosted Wisconsin last year, Ohio State will also be wearing their gray alternate uniforms. In the past the Buckeyes have had some good luck when changing out of their normal uniforms, posting a 26-7 record when wearing alternate uniforms. This will be the first time Ohio State has worn their all-gray alternate uniforms with scarlet lettering and numbering.

Hendo continues to pace the Ohio State offense​


After returning to the field two weeks ago with 207 total yards of offense against Wisconsin, running back TreVeyon Henderson bettered that mark by a yard last week at Rutgers. The junior ran for 122 yards and a touchdown against the Scarlet Knights, and hauled in five catches for 80 yards on Saturday.

The biggest play of the game for Henderson came when he took a screen pass 65 yards to not only set Ohio State up in the red zone, but also register the first play of at least 40 yards on the season against the Rutgers defense. Henderson is now 63 yards away from passing Howard “Hopalong” Cassady for 19th all-time on Ohio State’s career rushing list.

While Henderson was finding room to operate last week at Rutgers, the same can’t be said for wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who finished the game with just four catches for 25 yards. Not that Harrison didn’t make an impact in the game, as he was able haul in two touchdowns against the Scarlet Knights, raising his season total to 10 receiving touchdowns.

Now Harrison is now just 86 yards away from becoming the first Ohio State receiver to record at least 1,000 receiving yards in two seasons. Harrison has 140 career receptions, placing him just a few catches shy of moving past some great Buckeye receivers on the school’s all-time receiving list. Harrison now needs just four catches to pass Garrett Wilson and Parris Campbell, and six to move past Corey “Philly” Brown for seventh in school history.

Even though his play was inconsistent at times last week, quarterback Kyle McCord did set a school record last week. With seven consecutive completions to end the Wisconsin game, followed by 11 straight completions to start last week’s game, McCord broke C.J. Stroud’s school record of 17 consecutive completions. McCord threw for just 189 last week in the victory, marking the first time this season that he has failed to reach 200 yards passing.

Hard to put points up on the Buckeyes​


As mentioned earlier, the Buckeye defense was sparked by Jordan Hancock early in the second half when the corner returned an interception 93 yards for a touchdown. The Ohio State secondary needed a big effort from Hancock, since they were not only without cornerback Denzel Burke, safety Lathan Ransom also missed the game because of injury. With Ransom injured, Sonny Styles saw more time on the field, finishing last week’s game with seven tackles.

The secondary is a huge reason why the Buckeyes have yet to allow more than 17 points in a game so far this season. After being a liability at the end of last season, this year has been a whole different story for Ohio State. Defensive coordinator has put together a unit that has done a great job at keeping everything in front of them. Until last week’s game when Rutgers broke a big play on fourth down with the “fumblerooski”, the Buckeyes hadn’t given up a play of over 40 yards prior to that play.

Another reason why Ohio State’s defense has been so sound this year is because of the sure tackling of linebackers Tommy Eichenberg, Steele Chambers, and Cody Simon. Eichenberg leads the team with 75 tackles, and is well on his way to another season where he eclipses 100 tackles. Chambers ranks second on the team with 54 tackles, while Simon has come on in recent weeks and earned himself more playing time.

The one area where the Buckeyes could use more consistency is with their defensive line play. Aside from Tyleik Williams, who has been great throughout the season, Ohio State sees some of their talented defensive ends disappear for periods of time. After seeing what J.T. Tuimoloau is capable of, it’s concerning he only has four sacks so far this season. The Buckeyes are going to need more from Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer against Michigan and if they make the College Football Playoff.

A bright spot during a tough season​


This year has been quite a tumultuous season for Michigan State. Head coach Mel Tucker was fired after sexual harassment allegations were levied against Tucker. Stepping in as acting head coach for the Spartans is secondary coach Harlon Bennett, who is in his 15th year on the Michigan State coaching staff. Bennett earned his first win last week when the Spartans beat Nebraska 20-17 in East Lansing, snapping a six-game losing streak.

Michigan State’s offense at a glance​


A major reason for the struggles so far this year for Michigan State has been because of poor quarterback play. Noah Kim started the first five games of the year for the Spartans before he was replaced by Katin Houser. Kim had an issue with turnovers while starting, throwing six picks, while Houser has done a better job at taking care of the football, tossing just two interceptions. In the win over Nebraska, Houser completed 13-of-20 passes for 165 yards, which was his highest yardage total so far this season.

Senior wide receiver Montorie Foster Jr. has established himself as Michigan State’s top receiving threat this year. The Cleveland native is leading the team with 33 receptions for 436 yards. Last week Foster has his best game so far this season, catching four passes for 94 yards and a score against the Cornhuskers. The touchdown reception actually came from backup quarterback Sam Leavitt on a trick play. Tre Mosley isn’t too far behind Foster in catches, hauling in 28 receptions.

When it comes to running the football, Michigan State really has just one option. UConn transfer Nathan Carter has 156 carries this season, while no other Spartan has more than 27 carries. There has been only one game so far this year where Carter hasn’t received at least 15 carries. The sophomore back has 659 yards rushing entering Saturday night’s contest, recording at least 100 yards rushing in three games so far this year.

Helping to clear the way for Carter is graduate senior J.D. Duplain, who will start at left guard for Michigan State. Duplain has started 39 straight games, which is the second-longest streak in school history. While Duplain is the only Spartan offensive lineman to start every game this year, Nick Samac has started every game aside from the season opener at center. Left tackle Brandon Baldwin missed last week’s contest after starting every game prior, while the only game Spencer Brown didn’t start was the game against Minnesota.

The Spartans on defense​


Michigan State’s defense has done an outstanding job at putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks, registering 25 sacks so far this year. Last week’s performance against Nebraska was their best of the season, as they not only tied a season-high with seven sacks, they also finished the game with 12 tackles for loss. The 283 yards they gave up to the Cornhuskers marked the fifth time this year where the Spartans have held their opponent to under 300 yards of offense.

In the center of the Michigan State defense is linebacker Cal Haladay, who leads the team with 65 tackles. Along with all of those tackles, Haladay also has a nose for the football, recovering two fumbles and picking off a pick. Aaron Brule has been really good at pressuring opposing quarterbacks from his linebacker spot, recording four sacks. Rounding out the linebackers is Jordan Hall, who has 47 tackles and 2.5 sacks.

The secondary of Michigan State has been led by safety Jaden Mangham. The sophomore is tied for second in the Big Ten with four interceptions. Entering this week’s contest, Mangham has snatched an interception in back-to-back games. After starting for most of the seeason, Malik Spencer has played the last two weeks primarily at nickelback. Spencer is second on the team with 57 tackles, and has broken up five passes. Expect to also see Angelo Grose in the secondary, as the senior has two interceptions and five pass breakups.

The defensive line of the Spartans will be tasked with not only trying to get to quarterback Kyle McCord, but also slowing down running back TreVeyon Henderson. Simeon Barrow and Derrick Harmon will man the interior of the defensive line, while Jalen Thompson and Zion Young started at defensive end for Michigan State last week against Nebraska. Overall, the Spartans have started six different defensive ends so far this season.

Summary​


Even though Michigan State was able to beat Nebraska last week, everything isn’t fixed for the Spartans. With the hiring of a new head coach coming in the offseason, this year is a lost season for Michigan State because of all the turmoil they have had to deal with. While that doesn’t mean the Spartans won’t play hard on Saturday night, they don’t have the talent and scheme to slow down Ohio State.

What the Spartans have to hope is Ohio State comes out sluggish and plays down to their competition, which is something they have done at times so far this year. When the Buckeyes are on, there’s not many teams around the country that can beat them. Unfortunately, some times it takes until the second half for Ohio State to find their rhythm and for quarterback Kyle McCord to settle down.

The return of running back TreVeyon Henderson has been a game-changer for Ohio State. Getting Henderson back on the field has taken some of the pressure off of Marvin Harrison Jr., who was shouldering a lot of the offensive load with Henderson and Emeka Egbuka out with injury. Henderson can not only hurt opponents on the ground, but he has proven to be a valuable security valve for McCord.

The Buckeyes know what is in front of them. Games against Michigan State and Minnesota before the showdown with Michigan at the end of the month. Returning home and playing under the lights in alternate uniforms should have the Buckeyes juiced up at kickoff. There’s really no reason this game should be close since the Spartans have questions on both sides of the football. This feels like it should be the most convincing win for the Buckeyes since last month’s game at Purdue.

LGHL prediction: Ohio State 45, Michigan State 10​


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LGHL Three Things To Watch vs. Michigan State

Three Things To Watch vs. Michigan State
Chip.Minnich via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch

Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

Complacency should be a concern for the Buckeyes as they battle the Spartans at night.

Brief confession time — I despise the end of daylight savings time. The early part of November always has me feeling lethargic and somewhat depressed, as it becomes so dark by 5:00 p.m. ET. If only there was something that could help cheer me up.. Oh, a night game versus Michigan State in Ohio Stadium!

Michigan State comes to Columbus with a 3-6 overall record, and a 1-5 Big Ten conference record. The Spartans have been reeling ever since the suspension, then firing, of Mel Tucker as their head coach at the end of September. The Spartans were able to snap a six game losing streak by defeating Nebraska last week, 20-17. Ohio State is a 31.5-point favorite, and it is precisely this type of mindset that has head coach Ryan Day trying to make sure that the Buckeyes do not overlook the Spartans.

On his radio show that aired on Nov. 9, Day commented on the Michigan State offense, saying,

“They’ve been a flavor of the day. Their coaches put together a game plan that’s different all the time...Definitely an opponent to be wary of.”.
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Below are the Three Things To Watch versus Michigan State as this game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC under the lights of Ohio Stadium. As this game is being played on Nov. 11, which is Veterans Day, my sincere thanks to any and all of you who are veterans for your service to our nation. For those of you going, dress warmly, as the game temperature is expected to be around or under 40 degrees...

The Michigan State running game versus the Ohio State defense​


Michigan State ranks last within The Big Ten in scoring, only averaging about 18 points per game. Part of what is contributing to the Spartans’ offensive inefficiencies is the lack of a consistent quarterback, as Noah Kim, Katin Houser, and Sam Leavitt have all been given opportunities to pilot the Michigan State offense.

It is with that lack of a consistent passing game that leads me to speculate that Michigan State will try to control the clock with its running game, as Spartans RB Nathan Carter has rushed for 659 yards and four touchdowns this season, averaging 4.2 yards per carry. The Ohio State defense has been among the best in the Big Ten this season, only giving up nearly 113 yards per game on the ground.

Keep an eye on how much Ohio State LB Tommy Eichenberg plays against Michigan State. Eichenberg left the game at Rutgers late in the contest, and would seem likely to play versus the Spartans. If not, this could be a showcase opportunity for LB Cody Simon to supplement Eichenberg in the lineup, as Ohio State may be looking to rest starters such as Eichenberg for the upcoming games versus Minnesota and at Michigan.

Will Ohio State rest its offensive starters for most of the second half?​


As written up above regarding Eichenberg, the Ohio State coaching staff knows that they cannot risk significant injuries to any of their starters, with so much at stake this late in the season. Ohio State may want to rotate in their backups frequently, for the much-valued game repetitions, when the game is decisively in hand.

It is that kind of reasoning that has me wondering if true freshman wide receiver Carnell Tate may have an opportunity to shine against the Spartans. Tate has been getting more playing time over the last few weeks, and this game seems like the type of venue that may allow Tate to show the nation that he is the next great Ohio State wide receiver on the horizon.

Will the Ohio State special teams units play better under the microscope?​


Ryan Day did not try to mask his displeasure with the poor performance of the special teams units from last week’s game at Rutgers, calling it “unacceptable”. Day supported his beleaguered special teams coach at his weekly press conference with the media on Nov. 7.

Ryan Day on Special Teams Coordinator Parker Fleming, after the special teams unit has been under scrutiny:

"I think he's a great teacher and a great coach, and I can just tell you that he works as hard as anybody in the building." pic.twitter.com/4nsyNtXQyO

— Lantern Sports (@LanternSports) November 7, 2023
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Saturday night, under the lights, with a nationwide audience, would be a great way to show the country that the special teams units are not as bad as they seem. A blocked punt, a return for a touchdown off a kickoff or punt — any or all of these would go a long way to quieting the numerous skeptics among the Ohio State fan base.


In seasons past, this game would have been the type of game that would be categorized as “must see TV” for college football fans across the country. With Michigan State struggling to put up points, this seems like the kind of game that Ohio State should be able to get a comfortable lead, then put in the backups for most of the second half.

It may not be exciting, but the Buckeyes should be 10-0 by the time the clock strikes midnight on Nov. 11. I have it Ohio State 35, Michigan State 14.

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LGHL Stick to Sports Podcast: It’s Stroud, Basketball, and Michigan Whining Season!

Stick to Sports Podcast: It’s Stroud, Basketball, and Michigan Whining Season!
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Houston Texans

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Also, lots of “Great British Baking Show” talk!

Land-Grant Holy Land’s Stick to Sports is unlike any podcast you’ve heard on the Ohio State beat. Your hosts, Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich, will (of course) talk Ohio State sports, but the primary focus of the show will be on what’s going on around the periphery, such as weird/funny happenings in college football and the sports world at large, as well as other things that keep us interested in between games, whether that’s pop culture, social media trends— you name it.

Listen to the episode and subscribe:

Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio​


On this episode of the Land-Grant Podcast Network’s sports-adjacent podcast “Stick to Sports,” Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich call out all of the haters who said C.J. Stroud was overrated and nothing more than a system quarterback. They also look ahead to the Ohio State men’s basketball season on the eve of their second game as they welcome the No. 15 Texas A&M Aggies to the Schott.

They also dive into the latest — pre-suspension — hilarity that is this Michigan sign-stealing fiasco and their feelings on the first half of the “Great British Baking Show” season.

Jami’s Recommendation: “Drink Masters”

https://www.netflix.com/title/81437299

Matt’s Recommendation: “Lessons in Chemistry” book and series

Book: https://www.bonniegarmus.com/lessons-in-chemistry

Series: https://tv.apple.com/us/show/lessons-in-chemistry/umc.cmc.40yycssgxelw4zur8m2ilmvyx


Connect with Jami Jurich
Twitter: @JamiJurich

Connect with Matt Tamanini
Twitter: @BWWMatt

Theme music provided by www.bensound.com​


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LGHL MC&J: Week 11 in the Big Ten will see Michigan square off with Penn State

MC&J: Week 11 in the Big Ten will see Michigan square off with Penn State
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Michigan v Michigan State

Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Plus, Ohio State hosting Michigan State under the lights is one of six other games in the conference on Saturday.

Last week ATS: 8-6-1 (5-2-1 National, 3-4 B1G)​

Season ATS: 82-80-1 (38-46-1 National, 44-34 B1G)​


My predictions for Ole Miss-Georgia, Utah-Washington, and a number of other games outside the Big Ten can be found here.

B1G games​


No. 3 Michigan (-5.5) v. No. 10 Penn State - 12:00 p.m. ET - FOX

This is by far Michigan’s toughest test of the season. As if having to go into State College to take on Penn State wasn’t hard enough, the Wolverines are dealing a cheating scandal which has to make it tough to prepare for games, since they don’t know if or when the Big Ten is going to hand down any punishment for head coach Jim Harbaugh. While Michigan was able to easily handle Purdue last week, the pressure on Saturday will be at a level they haven’t experienced so far this year.

Penn State was able to put the uneven performance against Indiana behind them, beating up on Maryland last week. Drew Allar threw for 240 yards and four touchdowns against the Terrapins last week. After transferring from Kent State, Dante Cephas had his best game as a Nittany Lion, hauling in two of those touchdown passes from Allar last week.

As much as I hate Michigan, I would love for them to be undefeated heading into the Ohio State game in a couple weeks. The Buckeyes gave Michigan a (legal) blueprint on how to beat Penn State after they took down the Nittany Lions in Columbus last month. Even though I could see J.J. McCarthy and the Wolverines struggling early as they adjust to the noise from the fans at Beaver Stadium, Michigan is a better all-around team than Penn State.

Michigan 28, Penn State 17


Indiana v. Illinois (-6.5) - 12:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network

Both Indiana and Illinois are coming off surprising wins last week. The Hoosiers beat Wisconsin in Bloomington, while Illinois knocked Minnesota from the top of the Big Ten West with a 27-26 win over the Golden Gophers. Isaiah Williams hauled in a 46-yard touchdown pass from backup quarterback John Paddock with less than a minute left in the game to secure the win for Illinois.

Neither of these teams are very good, yet they are both fighting for bowl eligibility. A loss for the Hoosiers will eliminate them from bowl contention, while Illinois has to win two of its final three games. Even though I don’t think much of Indiana’s ability to move the football, they play solid defense. Plus, I’m having a hard time trusting an Illinois team that has won all four of their games by six points or less. The Fighting Illini win ugly.

Illinois 24, Indiana 21


Maryland (-2.5) v. Nebraska - 12:00 p.m. ET - Peacock

You had just one job, Nebraska. All you had to do was win last week to become bowl eligible. Now the Cornhuskers have to find a way in one of their final three games. Matt Rhule’s team will play Maryland, Wisconsin, and Iowa to close out the regular season.

Maryland is in a similar situation, as they are one win away from bowl eligibility. The Terrapins started the year 5-0, but they have lost their last four games. While losses to Ohio State and Penn State are understandable, the setbacks against Illinois and Northwestern are a lot more puzzling. Taulia Tagovailoa is doing all he can at quarterback, throwing 21 touchdowns so far this year, he just isn’t getting much help from his teammates.

After seeing how bad Maryland was last week at keeping Penn State out of the backfield, I don’t see things getting much better against a hungry Nebraska defense. Really the only reason the Cornhuskers lost last week was because of self-inflicted mistakes. Nebraska plays better at home and finally gets the win needed to become bowl eligible.

Nebraska 27, Maryland 24


Rutgers v. No. 22 Iowa (-1.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network

I probably should have known not to take Iowa as more than a field goal favorite. Last week the Hawkeyes were able to beat Northwestern 10-7 in whatever that event was at Wrigley Field. Iowa totaled 169 yards of offense and still won because Northwestern wasn’t able to do anything against the great defense of the Hawkeyes.

Much like with other teams that play Ohio State, I’m always hesitant to back teams a week after they took on the Buckeyes. This is no different. The Scarlet Knights gave Ohio State everything they could handle and it still wasn’t enough. Now a struggling offense has to go on the road and play one of the best teams in the country. Not a good recipe for Rutgers. Iowa wins a low-scoring game.

Iowa 17, Rutgers 10


Minnesota v. Purdue (-1.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - NBC

Last week Athan Kaliakmanis actually played one of best games as a Golden Gopher, tossing three touchdowns. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough for Minnesota, as they allowed a late touchdown to Illinois and lost 27-26. Missing from the backfield last week were Darius Taylor and Sean Tyler, leaving Jordan Nubin to shoulder most of the load.

The season can’t end soon enough for Purdue. The Boilermakers have lost four straight games and are just 2-7 on the season. Purdue’s offense has been non-existent during the losing streak, averaging just 12 points per game during the skid. Minnesota is powered by their defense, so it’s hard to imagine the Boilermakers have an offensive explosion on Saturday. I’ll take the team that still has bowl eligibility and the Big Ten West title to fight for.

Minnesota 24, Purdue 14


Northwestern v. Wisconsin (-10.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - FS1

I wonder if Luke Fickell wishes he was back at Cincinnati right now. Wisconsin has really struggled this year. While some of their issues can be attributed to injuries, the offense of the Badgers isn’t operating anywhere close to how Fickell and offensive coordinator Phil Longo thought it would. About the only bright spot for Wisconsin this year has been the play of quarterback Braedyn Locke, who was thrust into action when Tanner Mordecai was injured.

Northwestern is actually playing like they care, which is more than some teams can say right now. The Wildcats actually have an outside shot at bowl eligibility, which would be quite the accomplishment after how they started the season following the mess that was left after the firing of Pat Fitzgerald. I’m not bold enough to pick a win from the Wildcats here, but I do think they’ll play Wisconsin tough.

Wisconsin 23, Northwestern 17


Michigan State v. No. 1 Ohio State (-31.5) - 7:30 p.m. ET - NBC

Great teams cover and that’s why Ohio State did last week. Things looked rough at halftime, with the Buckeyes trailing Rutgers 9-7. Then Jordan Hancock’s pick-six turned the tide and Ohio State went on to cover by half a point. This week the Buckeyes will have a lot bigger spread to navigate when they host Michigan State.

Even though the Spartans halted a six-game losing streak last week with a win over Nebraska, there are still a lot of issues the Spartans are dealing with. The team fired Mel Tucker early in the season, leaving secondary coach Harlon Bennett to be the acting head coach. Along with the change at head coach, Michigan State has seen a lot of inconsistent play at quarterback. Katin Houser has taken over at quarterback after Noah Kim threw six interceptions in the first five games.

TreVeyon Henderson is such a difference maker in the Buckeye offense. Henderson now has ran up over 200 yards of total offense in each of the last two games, taking some pressure off of wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. Along with Henderson returning to the lineup, Emeka Egbuka was able to play last week after missing a few games with an injury. Now if only Cade Stover can play on Saturday, the Buckeye offense will be as close to full strength as it has been in a while.

How Houser and the Michigan State offense is going to put up enough points to keep this game competitive is beyond me. Ohio State’s defense has been nails all season. The Buckeyes still haven’t allowed more than 17 points in a game this season, and last week they finally allowed a play of over 40 yards — which came on a “fumblerooski” play. The Spartans just don’t have the horses to break anything big on the Buckeyes.

Ohio State 45, Michigan State 10

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LGHL You’re Nuts: What is the main key to victory against Texas A&M?

You’re Nuts: What is the main key to victory against Texas A&M?
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch

Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Aggies are a top-15 team in the country, how can the Buckeyes pull off the upset at home?

Tonight, Ohio State has the opportunity to add a massive win to its resume against Texas A&M, and dare I say even snag a few AP votes while they’re at it. The Aggies visit Ohio State as the first part of a two-year home-and-home series and present the biggest challenge the Buckeyes will see for several weeks.

Last week, the guys both picked something that you needed to watch for in the Buckeyes’ season-opener against Oakland, Connor said to pay attention to defensive rebounding, while Justin picked the allotment of minutes at center between Felix Okpara and Zed Key. 88% of the people who followed the debate thought defensive rebounding was a more pertinent area of concern heading into the first game.

After 125 weeks:​

Connor- 57
Justin- 50
Other- 14​

(There have been four ties)​


After squeaking past Oakland, Ohio State will now see a sharp increase in difficulty as the Aggies, led by the exuberant but gruff Buzz Williams, visit the Schottenstein Center. The list of things the Buckeyes need to improve on from their first game is not short — if they were perfect, they wouldn’t have trailed for as long as they did against the Golden Grizzlies. But if it was up to you, what would be your main focus if you were hypothetically preparing this Ohio State team for Texas A&M?

Today’s Question: What is the main key to victory against Texas A&M? ​

Connor: Knock down a bunch of threes ​

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

Ohio State doesn’t have the experience that Texas A&M does, nor does it bring the same physicality to the game that Buzz Williams’ squad will Friday night. One area that I do think Ohio State has the advantage, however, is beyond the arc.

A&M has two respectable shooters in Wade Taylor — the SEC Pre-Season Player of the Year — and Hayden Hefner. Last season, Taylor shot 36% from three-point range and Hefner was right at 35%. Both of those marks are respectable, not not lights-out or anything. In A&M’s first game of the season against Texas A&M Commerce, Taylor and Hefner combined to knock down 7-13 three-pointers.

In Bruce Thornton and Jamison Battle, Ohio State has two shooters better than A&M’s best two shooters. As the season goes on, I think Scotty Middleton will turn into a shooter who hovers around that 36% mark as well, if not better. Since A&M is the more well-balanced and experienced team, the Buckeyes will need to make up for the deficiencies somewhere — I think it needs to be from beyond the arc.

Against Oakland, Ohio State shot a ton of three-pointers because they weren’t able to move the ball against the zone and were settling. Very few of those threes came with time and space, and that’s a big reason they went 7-25 from downtown. It wouldn’t surprise anyone if Williams threw a zone at the Buckeyes for a while because of this, but I also think they’ll be in man-to-man quite a bit this evening. Even though Texas A&M is a much better team than Oakland, Ohio State will feel more comfortable running their offense against a more traditional defensive set, rather than a 1-1-3 (or 1-3-1, I don’t even remember) zone.

Texas A&M is not going to be out-physicaled by Ohio State. They probably won’t be out-rebounded. They have bigger, stronger guys in the post and one of the best point guards in the nation. Th Buckeyes have the home-court advantage, but not many other advantages in this matchup. Because of that, their good shooters need to show up Friday night. Battle and Thornton cannot combine to go 5-14 again. Roddy Gayle can’t go 0-4 again. Ohio State shouldn’t take ill-advised three-pointers, but they’ll need to out-shoot Texas A&M to win this game because it is one of the few areas they have an advantage on paper.

Justin: Jamison Battle has to be a threat on offense​

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Buckeyes are 1-0, but it was not the prettiest opening game. I don’t try to take away too much from just the first game because there are so many things the team and the coaches are trying to figure out.

However, they will have to play better against Texas A&M to start the season 2-0. And if they do beat the Aggies, they will start to gain some early national buzz, which is always fun

So, what do they have to do better? They have to get Jamison Battle more involved.

Don’t get me wrong, Battle played fine in the first game, but he did most of his damage in the first three minutes of the game. Battle finished with nine points on 3-for-8 shooting and 2-for-7 shooting from the three-point line.

Bruce Thornton, Zed Key, and Roddy Gayle combined for 51 of the Buckeye’s 79 points against Oakland, and Texas A&M will be able to throw a lot of different looks at them defensively, so Battle will have to step up and give them another threat the Aggies will have to account for.

Oakland head coach Greg Kampe said after the game that one of their main focuses on defense was to force Battle to put the ball on the floor and take away his three-point shooting ability. He was only 2-for-7 from deep and started 2-for-3, so their plan was fairly successful.

If Ohio State is going to beat Texas A&M, they will need double figures from Battle and likely 15 points or more.


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LGHL Ohio State women’s basketball 2023-24 player preview: Cotie McMahon

Ohio State women’s basketball 2023-24 player preview: Cotie McMahon
ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Ohio State v Connecticut

Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images

The sophomore forward is no longer an under the radar freshman: McMahon is on the doorstep of superstardom

Rounding out the final player in the 23-24 Ohio State women’s basketball player preview series is a name for the present and the future. A big piece of the excitement surrounding the Buckeyes towards the end of last season returns for the first of potentially three years remaining as a member of the scarlet and gray.

Forward Cotie McMahon had a quiet start to the 22-23 season, but by the end of the campaign she couldn’t be ignored. Now, McMahon looks at repeating those postseason performances and then some.


Name: Cotie McMahon
Position: Forward
Class: Sophomore
High School: Centerville High School (Centerville, Ohio)
2022-23 Stats: 15.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 2.4 apg, .394 FG%, .263 3FG%, .677 FT%

Last Season​


When McMahon enrolled early in the spring of 2022, the forward was the No. 23 recruit in the nation watching the Buckeyes win a share of the 21-22 Big Ten Regular Season title. After a summer with Team USA winning an international title in the FIBA Americas tournament, McMahon suited up for the scarlet and gray on the opening day roster against the Tennessee Volunteers.

In that game where Ohio State had a mini upset against the No. 5 ranked team in the nation, McMahon showed glimpses of what fans of the Buckeyes would see regularly throughout the year. McMahon was a bolt of lightning on the court, attacking the rim with reckless abandon.

After climbing up an early learning curve, playing only six minutes against the Louisville Cardinals where the then freshman scored one point and had two fouls the standout example, the game slowed down quickly and McMahon became indispensable.

Over the final 28 games of the year, McMahon led the Buckeyes in scoring in 12 games. McMahon scored a personal season high 30 points against the USF Bulls in a come-from-behind win in December. Partly benefiting off strong shooting on the perimeter from guard Taylor Mikesell, McMahon wasn’t just attacking the basket, but drawing in defenders and getting the ball to teammates like forward Taylor Thierry for easier baskets.

When the Buckeyes got to the postseason, McMahon hit a new level. At the Big Ten Tournament, McMahon averaged 21 points and 11 rebounds in three games. In four games of the NCAA Tournament, McMahon’s 18.3 points and 6.5 rebounds per game featured a 23-point game in the Sweet Sixteen, shocking the nation on national TV with Ohio State defeating the UConn Huskies.

Although Ohio State’s season ended on a down note, falling to the Virginia Tech Hokies in the Elite Eight, the attention surrounding the most exciting five seconds in basketball carried over to the 23-24 season. That’s when McMahon was placed on multiple watch lists for Small Forward of the Year, Player of the Year, a spot on the Big Ten’s preseason First Team and an AP All-American Honorable Mention.

What to Expect​


McMahon is a force. Offensively, the forward gets the ball often on the wing and goes straight for the basket. On the way, McMahon is spinning off defenders and drawing in extra attention. With that attention it can go a few different ways.

Most often it's McMahon getting the ball into the basket, and getting trips to the free throw line. Last season alone the forward took 186 free throws, making 126. That’s 54 more attempts than Thierry with 132.

Those runs also turn into opportunities for McMahon’s teammates. While Mikesell is gone, McMahon still has outlets like Thierry, guard Jacy Sheldon and forward Rebeka Mikulášiková.

Towards the end of last season, McMahon also showed that she was working on her shooting from deep. The forward kept working in the offseason and showed increased prowess against the USC Trojans to start the 23-24 season. When the Buckeyes were firing and taking good shots in the 83-75 defeat in Las Vegas, Nevada, McMahon hit an open look in the first quarter.

Unfortunately for McMahon and the Buckeyes is something else people saw in the game against the Trojans: Added attention in the paint. When the Buckeyes were playing with less energy and USC extended leads, McMahon met two-to-three defenders in the paint each trip. Those exciting layups that bring energy to teammates couldn’t get through a defensive brick wall.

While there are learning curves this year for the scarlet and gray losing such a prolific shooter in Mikesell, McMahon will find her footing, teammates will make more shots and the lane will become more open.

Defensively, the sophomore is everywhere. In the Buckeyes’ press, McMahon can anticipate and intercept passes and run the court to increase the pressure. Only seven times last season did McMahon not log a steal in a game.

Prediction​


As long as McMahon is healthy, she’s playing for head coach Kevin McGuff. While McMahon’s first game didn’t show that attention-grabbing basketball of the 22-23 postseason, the potential is still there and then some.

McMahon will live up to the hype of being a star for the future of the Big Ten. Watch for McMahon to take more shots from deep to give herself and teammates room to work in the paint. If her shooting can reach the next level, there’s nothing that should surprise people about the work of McMahon.

Highlights​


See all McMahon is capable of with a highlight reel spanning the 22-23 season.

Miss a player preview? You can read the rest of them here:​


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