Ohio State vs. Maryland 2020 basketball preview, prediction, and odds

Ohio State hosts Maryland in a pivotal Big Ten matchup. We’ve got your preview, prediction and odds for the game.

Records

Ohio State 17-9 (7-8), Maryland 22-4 (12-3)

Broadcast, TV, Game Time

Date: Sunday, February 23
Game Time: 4:00 PM
Venue: Value City Arena, Columbus, OH
Network: CBS


This feels like a pivotal game for Ohio State. It’s not necessarily a game it has to have to get into the NCAA Tournament, but it needs to have a good showing against one of the really good teams in the conference to build on something that could mean a deeper run in March.

Right now, this team is one that seems to lack confidence whenever it faces a little adversity. It can play from ahead, and can make a run when there’s nothing to lose and the game is out of hand. It needs a game where it pulls out a close one against one of the best teams in the country, and that’s the opportunity Maryland presents.

But does Ohio State have the horses and toughness to do it? If so, it’s a huge win. If not, the fragile psyche of this team will only cement itself further.

Here’s our preview and prediction for the game.

Odds via BetMGM. Access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday at 2:00 p.m. ET. 

Next … The Ohio State game plan