It’s the next all-important step in Ohio State’s journey to the postseason, and yet another big matchup. That’s the way things have been in a deep and talented Big Ten. Every week is a battle, and every game has serious implications — most of the time for both teams.
Such is the case in this one. Ohio State and Purdue are both pretty solidly in the NCAA field as of right now, but a loss either team in a downward slide towards the proverbial bubble.
It’s a home affair the Buckeyes simply have to win in order to stay out of danger territory. You have to hold serve at home, and OSU has already lost a pair of games at Value City Arena this year in the Big Ten. It can ill-afford to drop another at this point.
Ohio State basketball bracketology: Where does USA TODAY have the Buckeyes? https://t.co/MWk1swbsew
— Buckeyes Wire (@BuckeyesWire) February 14, 2020
Odds via BetMGM. Access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 9:00 a.m. ET.
Records
Ohio State 16-8, (6-7), Purdue 14-11, (7-7)
All-time series record
68-54 Ohio State leads
Last meeting
Purdue won 86-51 last season in West Lafayette on March 2
Broadcast, TV, Game Time
Date: Saturday, February 15
Game Time: Noon
Venue: Value City Arena, Columbus, OH
Network: FOX