The Minnesota Golden Gophers (11-5, 2-5) host the Ohio State Buckeyes (12-4, 5-2) in a key Big Ten matchup. Here's what you need to know:

Team Stats & Strengths

• Ohio State excels in shooting efficiency:

  • 22nd in 3-point percentage
  • 17th in 2-point percentage
  • 15th in overall shooting percentage
  • Main weakness: Limited offensive rebounds due to size

• Minnesota's defensive strengths:

  • Holds opponents under 70 points
  • 34th in opponent 3-pointers allowed (5.8 per game)
  • 15th in opponent free throws attempted (12.8 per game)

Key Players

• Ohio State: EJ Liddell leads with 19.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists on 51.2% shooting
• Minnesota: Payton Willis coming off a 32-point performance against Rutgers

Important Factors

• Minnesota may be missing three starters (Jamison Battle, EJ Stephens, Eric Curry)
• Ohio State coming off a week's rest
• Minnesota's home court advantage could keep it close if at full strength

Prediction Ohio State should win by 5-10 points, leveraging their superior shooting and talent advantage, especially if Minnesota remains short-handed.

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