Ohio State (13-8) at Illinois (14-7)
- When: Feb 2 2025, 1:00 PM
- Where: State Farm Center, Champaign, IL, USA
- Where to watch: CBS
Game Preview
Spread: Illinois -6.5 | Total: 156.0
A Big Ten showdown is on the horizon as No. 18 Illinois hosts a resurgent Ohio State team on Sunday afternoon in Champaign. The Buckeyes come into the matchup on a hot streak, while Illinois is searching for answers as they deal with injuries and inconsistency.
Ohio State Buckeyes: Peaking at the Right Time
Ohio State (13-8, 5-5 Big Ten) has turned its season around with a three-game winning streak fueled by strong defensive play and an impressive backcourt duo of John Mobley Jr. and Bruce Thornton. Their recent success includes a statement 70-65 upset over then-No. 11 Purdue, followed by decisive victories over Iowa (82-65) and Penn State (83-64).
The Buckeyes’ defense has been their calling card during this streak, holding opponents to an average of 64.7 points per game. Head coach Jake Diebler credited the team’s defensive focus and rebounding for the recent surge.
“Two games in a row we’ve been locked in defensively, and we’ve rebounded well,” Diebler said.
John Mobley has embraced his expanded role, particularly in the absence of guard Meechie Johnson, who’s missed 11 games for personal reasons. Mobley had 19 points and eight assists against Penn State, showcasing his versatility beyond just being a shooter. His ability to draw defensive attention has created open looks for Thornton, who is shooting 61% (11-for-18) from beyond the arc during the three-game winning streak.
Key Factors for Ohio State:
Momentum and defensive intensity: The Buckeyes have found their rhythm, and their ability to limit opponents’ scoring will be crucial.
Guard play: Mobley and Thornton have developed a dynamic partnership, creating opportunities for perimeter scoring.
Illinois Fighting Illini: Searching for Stability
Illinois (14-7, 6-5 Big Ten) is reeling after an 80-74 overtime loss to Nebraska, a team that had dropped six straight before that game. Much of Illinois’ struggles can be traced back to the absence of 7-foot-1 center Tomislav Ivisic, who has been sidelined for the past three games due to mononucleosis. Ivisic, who averages 13.0 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, has been the anchor in the paint on both ends of the floor.
Without Ivisic, Illinois has struggled to control the boards and maintain offensive flow. Head coach Brad Underwood has been vocal about the team’s poor shot selection and hinted at possible lineup changes to spark improvement.
“I’ve got to do something with the starting lineup,” Underwood said. “We don’t know when we’re getting Tomi (Ivisic) back, so we have to figure things out.”
Sophomore guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn acknowledged the impact of Ivisic’s absence but emphasized the importance of stepping up as a team.
“That’s not an excuse. We have to have the next-man-up mentality,” he said.
Illinois still has talented perimeter players like Gibbs-Lawhorn and Alex Karaban, but inconsistency from long range has held them back. Karaban, who leads the team with 15.0 points per game, was ice-cold against Nebraska, going 1-for-14 from the floor and 0-for-6 from beyond the arc.
Key Factors for Illinois:
Shot selection and ball movement: The Illini need to improve their offensive efficiency without their star big man.
Home-court advantage: Illinois is 10-2 at home this season and typically performs better in front of their home crowd.
Betting Prediction & Final Thoughts
Ohio State enters this matchup with momentum and confidence, while Illinois is struggling to adapt without Ivisic. The Buckeyes’ strong defensive presence and perimeter shooting should allow them to keep this one close. Expect Mobley and Thornton to continue their productive partnership and capitalize on Illinois’ defensive lapses.
However, Illinois is difficult to beat at home, and Underwood’s lineup adjustments could provide a spark. Look for Illinois to do just enough to pull out the win, but Ohio State should cover the spread in a competitive game. The total of 156 feels high given Illinois’ shooting woes and Ohio State’s recent defensive performances, making the under a strong play.
Final Score Prediction: Illinois 78, Ohio State 74
Best Bets:
✔️ Ohio State +6.5
✔️ Under 156
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
