Youngstown State Penguins vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Prediction

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The 15th-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes (9-1) welcome the Youngstown State Penguins (4-8) to Value City Arena. The Buckeyes will attempt to extend their six-game winning streak. The game begins at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 18, 2018.

Youngstown State Penguins at Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Odds

In their last matchup, the Buckeyes beat the Cincinnati Bearcats, 64-56, while the Penguins were beaten by the Pittsburgh Panthers, 69-53.

The Buckeyes had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.511 vs. 0.323) and had a better free throw rate (0.340 vs. 0.258). Youngstown State, on the other hand, had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (39.6 vs. 34.3). Kaleb Wesson played a key role for Ohio State with 15 points and seven rebounds. Youngstown State, meanwhile, was led by Kendale Hampton, who recorded 15 points.

The high-powered offense of Ohio State (63rd in the nation with an offensive efficiency of 113.7) will go head-to-head against the mid-tier defense of Youngstown State (291st in the country with a defensive efficiency of 108.2). The Buckeyes should have the edge on that side of the ball. It will also be a showdown of conflicting styles as the up-and-down Penguins rank 20th in possessions per game, while the more methodical Buckeyes rank 272nd.

Youngstown State Penguins at Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Pick

Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Ohio State, ATS Winner – Youngstown State, O/U – Under

Betting Notes:

  • Youngstown State ranks sixth in three pointers attempted per game (30.4) while Ohio State ranks 217th (19.8).
  • The Buckeyes rank 20th in steals allowed per game (4.3) while the Penguins rank 90th (6.1).
  • Ohio State ranks 40th in blocks allowed per game (2.6) while Youngstown State ranks 89th (3.3).
  • The Buckeyes rank 34th in rebounds allowed per game (32.0) while the Penguins rank 211th (37.9).
  • Ohio State ranks 49th in assists allowed per game (9.2) while Youngstown State ranks 146th (13.8).

Bettings Trends:

  • During their last five games, the Penguins have scored an average of 76.6 points per game (1.5 below their season average) and allowed an average of 80.0 points per game (2.2 below their season average).
  • The Buckeyes\u2019 average margin of victory in their last five games has been 21.8, up from 15.8 for the season.