The Big Ten Tournament starts today, but all eyes in Columbus (and the tournament committee) will be watching Thursday at 12:30 PM. Ohio State will take on Indiana in what could be described as a play in game to the National Tournament.
Joe Lunardi, ESPN’s resident Bracketoligist, has the Buckeyes as the last team out at this point and the Hoosiers just below them. Of course that all will change for the better if OSU wins, and for the worse if the Ohio State falters.
Ohio State and IU squared off only once this season with the Bucks coming out on top in Bloomington 55-52. However, after a string of five losses in a row, the Hoosiers have been playing their best basketball of the season winning four straight, including wins over No. 19 Wisconsin and No. 6 Michigan State.
Speaking of Sparty, it could be possible that the Buckeyes will need to knock off MSU as well to feel locked into the Big Dance. That last team in can change a great deal with the all the upsets March Madness brings. Having Kaleb Wesson back certainly helps, but far from a guarantee.
My prediction: a win over the Hoosiers before bowing out to Michigan State. Then it’s hold your breath and hope for the best.
