Prediction
ESPN BPI: Ohio State 95.3%
Spread: Ohio State by 18
2:00 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN
While Chris Holtmann has to be grateful that two teams volunteered to travel to Columbus to play the Buckeyes, these visiting teams (UMass-Lowell is next up) are not here just to sightsee. Illinois State is gunning to get back to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1998, and a road win against a ranked Ohio State team is their best opportunity at a resume-boosting win.
Unfortunately for the Redbirds, they are severely outgunned in this matchup, especially down low. Illinois State has very little in terms of post presence, and they’ll have to match up with the likes of Kyle Young and E.J. Liddell all afternoon. Look for CJ Walker to get those two involved early and often, taking advantage of the obvious size and talent advantage. Ohio State is the superior team, but they will need to shake off the rust quickly to avoid acquiring a nasty blemish on their tournament resume right off the bat.
LGHL Final Score Prediction: 82-57 Ohio State
