Ohio State Battles USC Amidst Crucial Three-Game Stretch

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Ohio State‘s chances of securing an at-large berth in the NCAA Tournament are in jeopardy as the Buckeyes face a three-game losing streak in crucial late-season play. With a record of 15-13 overall and 7-10 in the Big Ten, Ohio State will attempt to halt its downward trajectory when they meet the USC Trojans on Wednesday night at Galen Center.

The Buckeyes suffered a 69-61 defeat to UCLA the previous Sunday, compounding their woes following earlier losses at home to Northwestern and another opponent. Due to illness affecting the team, the Buckeyes’ center, who missed the last two games with the flu, could make his return, providing a much-needed boost.

OSU’s matchup against USC will mark their first-ever Big Ten game against the Trojans. The game is set to tip off at 10:30 p.m. Eastern time/7:30 p.m. Pacific and will be broadcast live on the Big Ten Network.

Ohio State’s recent performances have shown a lack of offensive efficiency, with the team shooting just 33 percent against Northwestern and 32 percent at UCLA. Coach has emphasized the importance of regaining focus, stating, “We need to pick up our game and stay resilient in this crucial phase of the season. Every game counts, but especially this one against USC.”

USC, with a record of 14-13 overall and 6-10 in conference play, has also struggled recently, losing three straight games. The Trojans, who are in their first season under coach, have dropped five of their last six contests. Coach levelled criticism at his players, adding, “We’re taking this season one game at a time, and we have to correct our mistakes against Ohio State.”

Both teams face significant pressure; Ohio State must secure a victory to stay in the NCAA conversation, while USC aims to turn around its season. A win for either team would provide a much-needed confidence boost heading into the concluding games of the season.

On the court, Ohio State’s starting five includes key players such as guard and forward, with averages of 17.1 points and 13.6 points per game, respectively. USC counters with a disciplined lineup and is expected to capitalize on its size advantage at various positions.

The upcoming match holds significant implications. A win could offer Ohio State its sixth Quad 1 victory this season, vital for their NCAA Tournament prospects. Conversely, a loss could dim their chances considerably, particularly given the historical struggles of teams with similar records at this stage of the season.

Statistics reveal both teams are closely matched, with Ohio State and USC maintaining around 37 percent shooting from beyond the arc. Nonetheless, USC leads the Big Ten in rebounding—a crucial statistic that could impact the game’s outcome. Ohio State will need to harness their strength in defense and find ways to exploit gaps in USC’s lineup.

In terms of the series history, the two teams have met previously, with Ohio State trailing in the all-time record. However, with the stakes high, the Buckeyes will seek to overturn past results and gain a foothold in the critical final stretch

As the game approaches, both teams are eyeing the opportunity for redemption. Ohio State is poised to bounce back—if they can leverage their collective skill and strategy against USC. In the end, the Buckeyes are determined to navigate through this rough patch, hoping that this pivotal clash could be their turning point.