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Ohio State (17-9) vs Michigan State (21-5)
- When: Feb 22 2026, 1:00 PM
- Where: Jack Breslin Students Events Center, East Lansing, MI
- Where to watch: CBS
Ohio State vs (15) Michigan State Preview & Prediction
Spread: Michigan State -9.5
Moneyline: Michigan State (-600)
Total: 146.0
Michigan State Spartans Betting Breakdown
Michigan State returns to East Lansing laying 9.5, looking to string together sharper performances as March approaches. The Spartans sit at 21-5 overall and 11-4 in Big Ten play, but recent inconsistency has kept bettors cautious. They dropped three of four before responding with an emphatic 82-59 win over UCLA.
Jeremy Fears Jr. delivered 16 points in that victory, knocking down a career-high four three-pointers while controlling tempo. That performance matters because Michigan State’s biggest issue has been slow starts and uneven halves. When they dictate pace early and limit defensive lapses, they look like a team capable of covering larger numbers at home.
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Breakdown
Ohio State enters at 17-9 overall and 9-6 in conference play, still fighting for NCAA Tournament positioning. The Buckeyes earned a statement 86-69 win over Wisconsin, their first ranked victory of the season, but they remain 0-8 in Quad 1 games and sit firmly on the bubble.
Bruce Thornton continues to be the offensive engine, sitting just six points shy of 2,011 career points, which would tie him for second all-time in program history. Devin Royal bounced back from a four-point outing against Virginia to score a season-high 25 against Wisconsin, hitting his first six shots. The issue for bettors has been consistency beyond Thornton.
Betting Outlook & Prediction
The total of 146 suggests a competitive but controlled tempo. Michigan State’s home-court edge and defensive intensity should pressure Ohio State’s secondary scorers. If the Spartans start strong, they can build separation. The Buckeyes’ volatility makes taking points tempting, but Michigan State’s urgency down the stretch gives the favorite the edge.
Final Score: Michigan State 78, Ohio State 66
Lean: Michigan State -9.5
Total: Under 146.0
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
