Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Iowa Hawkeyes 2/2/24 – As the college basketball season heats up, the Ohio State Buckeyes (13-8) are set to face off against the Iowa Hawkeyes (12-9) in a pivotal matchup that has fans and bettors alike scouring for the best college basketball free prediction. This game, scheduled for Friday, February 2, 2024, promises to be a thrilling contest between two teams vying to improve their standings as the season progresses.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Iowa Hawkeyes 2/2/24
| When: | Friday, February 2, at 7:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Carver-Hawkeye Arena |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckeyes | +5 -110 | o157 -110 | +210 |  |
| Iowa Hawkeyes | -5 -110 | u157 -110 | -250 | |
| ||||
Our very own @battletime510 has been named to the Julius Erving Award watchlist recognizing the 10 best small forwards in college basketball 🏀 #Team125 #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/BJe8j7Vst3
— Ohio State Hoops 🌰 (@OhioStateHoops) February 2, 2024
Bruce Thornton (Guard) vs. Ben Krikke (Forward)
Ohio State guard Bruce Thornton has played major minutes this season, averaging 33 per game across 20 contests. He leads the Buckeyes with 16.1 points on 41.6% shooting, while adding 3.2 rebounds and 4.4 assists. Thornton also contributes 1.5 steals per game and limits his turnovers to just 1 per contest. However, his three-point shot needs work, currently hitting only 32.4% from deep.
Iowa forward Ben Krikke has emerged in his junior campaign, playing 29.2 minutes per game through 20 matchups. He averages 15.7 points on an efficient 56% field goal percentage. Krikke crashes the glass as well with 5.1 boards per game. Additionally, he chips in 1.7 assists and under 1 turnover per contest. Krikke’s three-point shot has improved to 35.7% this season.
This matchup pits Thornton’s high-volume scoring against Krikke’s efficiency. If Thornton has an off shooting night, he could struggle to keep pace. Meanwhile, Krikke can positively impact the game even without high usage. His versatility gives Iowa an advantage, but Thornton’s ability to takeover a game makes this battle intriguing. Ultimately, team success will come down to supporting cast, but this one-on-one battle could move the needle.
Buckeyes in the Spotlight
Ohio State Buckeyes basketball program has shown impressive foundation, averaging 75.2 points per game on 44.5 percent shooting from the field and 7.6 three-pointers per game to create scoring opportunities and spread out their opponents across the court. Although their free-throw shooting (75.1%) has been impressive, their road struggles (2-5 against the spread) show they must adapt more effectively in hostile environments that await them at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
Hawkeyes’ Home Court Advantage
Iowa Hawkeyes boast an impressive 85.3 points per game offense that thrives on efficiency (48% FG) and depth, evidenced by 19 assists per game and relatively good turnover and steal numbers (their turnover rate has improved slightly), showing they can seize opportunities quickly when presented with them. Their home games tend to go over in total points (8 of 13 last games). Look for them to use both their offensive prowess and fan support to drive this one!
NCAAB Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
With betting odds yet to be determined, bettors should keep a close eye on the spread, moneyline, and total points as they become available. The game’s dynamics, particularly with both teams showing fluctuating performances against the spread and in over/under scenarios, suggest a closely contested matchup where in-game trends and key player performances could tip the scales.
Trends
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Trends
Ohio State are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
Buckeyes are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread
Ohio State are 2-5 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Ohio State’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 8 of Ohio State’ 13 last games at home
Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Trends
Iowa are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Hawkeyes are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Iowa are 4-3 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Iowa’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 8 of Iowa’ 13 last games at home
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Picks
Given the current trends and statistical analysis, this game presents a tight contest that’s hard to call. However, Iowa’s offensive firepower and home court advantage slightly tip the scale in their favor. The Buckeyes will need a standout performance from Thornton and their supporting cast to counteract the Hawkeyes’ offensive onslaught.
In terms of betting, the smart money might lean towards Iowa, especially with their tendency to outscore opponents at home. Bettors should consider the over/under based on both teams’ recent trends towards high-scoring games, especially at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. For those looking at premier betting sites for placing their bets, watching the odds for the spread and moneyline as they become available will be crucial.
Score Prediction: Iowa 78, Ohio State 74
