The Ohio State Buckeyes (19-9, 9-8 in the Big Ten) host Big Ten conference rival Michigan Wolverines (18-10, 9-8 in the Big Ten) at the Value City Arena for a 4 p.m. ET tip-off. We analyze the Michigan-Ohio State odds and betting lines, with college basketball betting advice and tips around this matchup.
Michigan at Ohio State: Three things you need to know
- Michigan had a five-game win streak snapped after losing to the Wisconsin Badgers, 81-74, on February 27. Senior guard Zavier Simpson went off for 32 points in the loss but it wasn’t enough as Wisconsin shot 53% from the field and 48% from behind the arc.
- Ohio State has won back-to-back games and four out of its last five. The Buckeyes’ 73-54 win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers on February 27 was keyed by their defense, which held Nebraska to 36% field goal and 19% 3-point shooting.
- Michigan and Ohio State are currently tied for seventh place in the Big Ten standings. The Buckeyes went into Ann Arbor and pulled off a 61-58 upset in the first game of the season on February 4. The final score disguises the Buckeyes’ defensive efforts as they held the Wolverines to just 33% field goal shooting.
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Michigan at Ohio State: Odds, betting lines and picks
Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 5 a.m. ET.
Prediction
Ohio State 71, Michigan 60
Moneyline (ML)
Monitor the injury report because the game status of Michigan’s (+145) highest-scoring player, SF Isaiah Livers, is crucial. His absence in the first game was one of the main reasons the Wolverines offense laid bricks. Since his status is up in the air, and Ohio State -175 is too steep of a price, we are PASSING on the MONEYLINE.
Against the Spread (ATS)
Ohio State -3.5 (-110) usually handles business at home, going 10-4 ATS as a home favorite with a 17.3 average margin of victory. While Michigan +3.5 (-110) struggles as a road dog and has a 2-9 ATS record, with a -5.8 margin of victory, in the spot. Additionally, the Buckeyes are 7-2 ATS at home versus winning teams and the Wolverines are just 2-5 ATS on the road against teams above .500. Take Ohio State 3.5 (-110).
Over/Under (O/U)
Under 137 (-110) is the play because the Under has cashed four out of the last five Michigan-Ohio State games. Also, Ohio State plays exceptional defense (ranked 19th in the country in opponent’s points per game and 18th in opponent’s field goal percentage), but their offense is average (147th in PPG and 130th in field goal %).
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