The Ohio State Buckeyes (10-8, 2-5 Big Ten) visit the Purdue Boilermakers (15-4, 7-1 Big Ten) at Mackey Arena on January 21, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET. Purdue enters the game on a seven-game win streak, including an undefeated record at home this season. Meanwhile, Ohio State has dropped its last three contests, all by narrow margins.
The last time these teams met, Ohio State secured a 73-69 victory in February 2024. The Buckeyes will look to replicate that effort, but Purdue’s stellar home form and dominant defense will present a tough challenge for an Ohio State team needing a win to bolster its NCAA Tournament hopes.
Purdue Preview – Home Dominance Key to Success
Purdue has been unstoppable at Mackey Arena, winning 26 straight games at home. The Boilermakers’ defense has been a standout during their current seven-game win streak, holding opponents to just 60.1 points per game and limiting them to 26.7% shooting from beyond the arc. Purdue’s ability to defend without fouling has also been crucial, with opponents attempting just 15.1 free throws per game.
Junior point guard Braden Smith orchestrates Purdue’s offense, averaging 15.1 points and 8.9 assists per game. Smith has been critical in keeping Purdue’s turnovers low, with the team averaging just nine giveaways during their streak. Forward Trey Kaufman-Renn has stepped up in the frontcourt, leading the Boilermakers with 23 points and 11 rebounds in their last game.
With a balanced approach on both ends of the floor, Purdue looks well-positioned to extend its home dominance against a struggling Ohio State team.
Ohio State Preview – Searching for Consistency
Ohio State has lost its last three games by a combined five points, including a heartbreaking 77-76 overtime defeat to Indiana. The Buckeyes’ struggles in late-game execution and decision-making have been costly, as highlighted by freshman guard John Mobley Jr.’s critical missed shots in the final moments against Indiana. Despite this, Mobley led the team with 22 points in that game and remains a key scoring option.
Sophomore forward Devin Royal, who averages 13.8 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, could significantly boost Ohio State’s chances if he returns from a sprained wrist. Without Royal, the Buckeyes have relied heavily on Mobley and Bruce Thornton, who contributed 18 points in their last outing. Ohio State’s defense will need to tighten up, particularly on the perimeter, to contain Purdue’s efficient shooters.
Ohio State is just 1-3 on the road this season, making the task of overcoming Purdue’s formidable home court even more daunting.
Betting Prediction
Purdue is a 9.5-point favorite, with the total set at 141.5. The Boilermakers’ defensive dominance and home-court advantage make them the clear choice to cover the spread. Ohio State’s recent close losses show they can compete, but their inconsistency, especially on the road, will likely prove too much to overcome against a disciplined Purdue team.
Projected final score: Purdue 74, Ohio State 62. Expect Purdue to control the pace, limit turnovers, and dominate defensively, keeping the total under 141.5.
Pick: Purdue -9.5, Under 141.5
