Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes NCAA Basketball Picks – The Minnesota Golden Gophers (5-2) take on the Ohio State Buckeyes (6-1) on Sunday in a Big Ten Conference matchup. This matchup, part of the latest NCAAB picks, promises to be a captivating contest between two formidable teams. Dawson Garcia of Minnesota and Bruce Thornton of Ohio State, both key players, are expected to play pivotal roles in the outcome of this game.
Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
Date & Time: Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 6:30 PM ET
Location: Value City Arena
TV: BTN
Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Minnesota | +765 | +13 (-110) | 144 over (-110) |
| Ohio State | -1373 | -13 (-110) | 144 under (-110) |
Minnesota Golden Gophers Analysis
The Golden Gophers have one of the most efficient offenses in the Big Ten, averaging nearly 80 points per game. They excel in getting high percentage shots, with four starters shooting over 49% from the field. Minnesota crashes the offensive boards well, averaging almost 12 offensive rebounds to create second chance opportunities.
However, the Gophers have struggled defensively, allowing over 75 points per contest. They lack size in the frontcourt and can be exploited by teams with talented big men. Their defensive rebounding is also a concern, as they allow too many extra possessions. Minnesota will need to tighten up their defense to compete with elite teams.
Forward Dawson Garcia is Minnesota’s offensive catalyst, averaging 18.3 points on 49.4% shooting to go along with 7.7 rebounds per game. His inside-outside scoring ability creates mismatches, and he will look to lead the attack against Ohio State’s big men. The Buckeyes must contain Garcia to limit Minnesota’s production.
Ohio State Buckeyes Analysis
Ohio State has found their stride offensively, scoring 80 points per game on 47.3% shooting. With multiple guards averaging double figures, they space the floor and move the ball effectively to find quality looks. The Buckeyes excel in transition, using their athleticism to get easy baskets before defenses can get set.
The Buckeyes are stout defensively, holding opponents under 70 points per contest. Their length and activity generate over 6 steals per game and make scoring in the halfcourt a challenge. Ohio State is susceptible to giving up offensive rebounds though, an area the Golden Gophers may be able to exploit.
Freshman guard Bruce Thornton leads the Buckeyes with 18.3 points while shooting an efficient 45.1% from the field. He creates off the dribble and can stretch the defense with his outside shooting. Thornton will be relied upon heavily against Minnesota’s shaky perimeter defense.
Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Against the Spread
Minnesota has been solid against the spread this year, covering in 8 of their last 11 matchups overall. More notably, they are 5-2 ATS in their previous 7 meetings with Ohio State. The Gophers have kept games competitive as large underdogs.
Meanwhile, Ohio State has covered in 9 of their last 13 contests. As heavy home favorites, though, they have struggled to cover large spreads recently versus conference foes. Their high-powered offense lends itself to backdoor covers.
Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Free Pick
Based on the odds, trends, stats, and analysis, here are our picks:
Moneyline: Ohio State -1373
Despite the high odds, Ohio State’s overall strength and home record make them the safer choice.
Spread: Minnesota +13 (-110)
Minnesota’s strong ATS record and the ability to keep games close make them a good pick against the spread.
Total: 144 over (-110)
Both teams have a trend of going over, with Minnesota’s last five road games and Ohio State’s last seven games seeing high scores.
Predicted Score: Ohio State Buckeyes 78, Minnesota Golden Gophers 67
In conclusion, while the Ohio State Buckeyes are favorites to win, the Minnesota Golden Gophers are likely to keep the game competitive, making the spread a more intriguing bet. The Gophers play Ohio State tougher than expected, making them the savvy pick against the spread this Sunday. For those engaging with Canadian top betting websites, the total going over seems to be a promising option given the offensive capabilities of both teams.
