The Ohio State basketball team is making moves and separating itself as one of the best teams in the country. The improvement has been quick and decisive from the start of the season until now. With the numerous statement wins over the last month or so, the Buckeyes are also starting to move up the major polls, metric rankings, and even opinion polls that are out there.
That’s where ESPN’s Jay Bilas comes in. Bilas is one of the best in the business and provides great insight, analysis, and opinion second to none in the college game. We respect what he has to say, even if he did play for Duke (closet Carolina fan here).
Bilas recently ranked the top 68 teams (subscription required) in college basketball, the same number that will make the NCAA Tournament here in just a few weeks, and Ohio State is very, very high on his list.
Here’s where he has the Buckeyes and what he says about them.
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No. 3 – Ohio State Buckeyes
What Bilas says about Ohio State
“The Buckeyes are another beautiful offensive team. There is versatility of big men, great schemes that move the defense then attacks it and excellent out-of-bounds plays. The key is the multipositional shooting that allows the offense to stretch the defense — and allows the schematic creativity. The offense is Final Four good, but the defense is bend-but-don’t break. Ohio State is undersized but tough and capable of being a very solid defensive team. The key? Guard the ball, position help and move as the ball moves. Sounds easy, but it is not. E.J. Liddell has been excellent and is one of the most improved players in the country. The combo of Liddell, Kyle Young and Zed Key (who is a load in the post with great feel and feet) can hang with anyone. With consistent play from Duane Washington Jr. (a terrific shooter), C.J. Walker (a good defender and handler) and Justice Sueing (a versatile wing), the Buckeyes can be a real threat to reach the ultimate four teams of the NCAA Tournament Bubble Event.”
NEXT … Jay Bilas’ ranking of Ohio State
No. 3 – Ohio State Buckeyes
What we say
There’s no doubt Ohio State has improved to the point where it’s one of the best teams in the country. The team has multiple guys that can score, can play and win using different styles, and is getting even better on defense. Right now, OSU is an elite offensive squad and just keeps improving with each passing game. If the Buckeyes continue to improve on defense and look to share the ball and be a team-oriented first squad, the team can make a very deep run in March. Yes, Ohio State is even Final Four worthy this year. It’s time to believe.
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