Ohio State Basketball: They're 24-0, But Is the Streak About To End?

The No. 1 Buckeye basketball team had little trouble in exercising some demons at the Barn earlier today, besting Minnesota 82-69. The victory pushed the only undefeated team left in Division One to 24-0, setting up an epic dual against Wisconsin next Saturday in Madison. 

Last Tuesday night, as Drew and I were interviewed by Eric of the Buckeye Battle Cry for their Radio Hour, I said I thought the streak might well come to an end against the Gophers. That was, however, before I watched Minnesota lose to a depleted Indiana squad the following evening. 

In all my years of watching the Hooisers (and I live in Indiana), I have never seen as unathletic a group as Tom Crean was forced to play that night and they still defeated Tubby's team. I guess Minnesota misses Al Nolan more than any of us expected. 

Anyway, it was great to finally win one in the Barn, and move to 24-0. 
The victory was fueled by David Lighty who shook off a bit of a slump to lead the way with 19 points, while Jared Sullinger finished with 18 points and 13 rebounds in spite of hitting only 2-8 from the charity stripe. It is a bit concerning that all of the sudden, big Sully is struggling with his free throws. 

On a positive note, Dallas Lauderdale had his best offensive performance in some time, scoring 10 points.

Overall, it was a solid ballgame for a team that keeps on finding ways to win. 

However, one wonders if the jig is up as the Buckeye hoopsters now head to the Kohl Center in Madison to play a physical Wisconsin team that manhandled Michigan State today, 82-56.  

Tom Izzo's squad is sinking faster than Ted Kennedy's car in the Chappaquiddick, but it does not take away from the fact that the Badgers are playing well and are awfully tough at home. So, the whole nation will be watching Saturday at 2 PM, in what should be an electric atmosphere. 

If I was a betting man, I would have to put my money on the home team, but I am learning not to wager against this Buckeye squad.

Let's hope the streak just keeps on going!