Buckeyes Face Tough Challenges on Road To Possible Big Ten Title

The Buckeyes will now face a late season gauntlet that will decide the Big Ten Title. Michigan State’s slump has reopened the title race for the conference. Illinois, Purdue, Michigan State, Ohio State, and Wisconsin all have a legitimate shot at this point.

Currently Illinois, Michigan State, and Ohio State sit atop the conference standings in a three way tie at 9-3. Purdue is a half a game back at 8-3 and Wisconsin is a game back at 8-4. The Buckeyes next three opponents are Illinois, Purdue, Michigan State.

At 19-6 Ohio State is one win away from it’s sixth straight under head coach Thad Matta. The Buckeyes will once again be taking part in the Big Dance this March, the fourth time during Matta’s tenure.

Evan Turner has been a huge part of this teams success this season. Turner is a guaranteed top five picks in next years NBA draft, and his return for his senior year to Ohio State is currently unknown. I would be shocked to see him in scarlet and gray next season. Tonight wasn’t one of his better performances but with 10 points and seven rebounds he paced the Buckeyes in the first half.

William Buford has slowly been taking a larger role as a leader for this team later on in the season. He had 21 points tonight against Indiana, a game high. He will be the leader of this team next season as Jared Sullinger finds his place in the offense.

Right now however, he’s expected to help Turner carry this team into the Tournament and compete this season. Last year the Buckeyes were bounced out in the first round by Siena. This team has the talent to be a Sweet 16 team, but playing with consistency on the road is still a work in progress.

Ohio State is now 3-4 on the road this season, with its 69-52 victory over the Hoosiers tonight. Playing on the road, and post play have been the thorns in the Buckeye team’s side this season. They go to Champagne and East Lansing in the next week; perfect time to change this seasons road record. Wins at either of these tough venues will go a long way in this teams confidence going into the tournament.