Preview: Ohio State Visits Rutgers to Open Big Ten Play

PISCATAWAY, N.J. (Interstat) — A surging Ohio State team begins its conference slate on the road Friday against a Rutgers squad seeking a statement victory at the Louis Brown Athletic Center.

The 15th-ranked Buckeyes (9-3) enter the new year having won three of their last four, including an 89-63 rout of Grambling on Dec. 23. Ohio State’s three losses are by a combined 10 points, with two coming in the final minute.

Rutgers (7-6) looks to build momentum after a 65-50 win over Delaware State on Monday snapped a two-game skid. The Scarlet Knights’ non-conference schedule was challenging, featuring blowout losses at Michigan (101-60) and Seton Hall (81-59).

Ohio State forward Amare Bynum is a key figure, averaging 10.6 points and 5.2 rebounds. The sophomore is coming off a near double-double with 12 points and nine rebounds against Grambling and scored 17 in a double-overtime win over West Virginia on Dec. 13.

For Rutgers, guard Dylan Grant provides a scoring spark. He leads the team with 18 points per game in his last two outings, including 18 against Delaware State.

The Buckeyes boast a balanced attack. In the win over Grambling, John Mobley scored 20 points and Bruce Thornton added 18. Ohio State averages 80.8 points per game.

Rutgers, averaging 69.2 points, relies on defense and rebounding. Tariq Francis, who had 19 points on Monday, complements Grant on the perimeter.

This marks the Big Ten opener for both teams. Ohio State holds a significant edge in recent matchups, winning the last seven meetings. The Buckeyes won both games last season, including a 76-72 victory here on Jan. 15.

Friday’s contest begins a critical stretch for Rutgers, which hosts Oregon next Monday. Ohio State continues its road trip at Nebraska on Jan. 5.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST. The game will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.