Ohio State Buckeyes vs Michigan Wolverines Picks and Predictions for Friday January 23 2026
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The Ohio State Buckeyes travel to Ann Arbor to face the Michigan Wolverines at the Crisler Center on Friday, January 23, 2026, with tip-off scheduled for 8:00 PM. This Big Ten rivalry game will be broadcast nationally on FOX. Michigan enters as a heavy home favorite with the Wolverines listed at -2400 on the moneyline, while Ohio State comes back at +1200. The total is set at 162.5 points with both the Over and Under priced at -110, and the spread favors Michigan -15.5 (-108) with Ohio State +15.5 (-112). Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more daily NCAA betting insights.
Ohio State Trying To Stay Competitive On The Road
Ohio State Buckeyes enter this matchup with a 13-5 overall record and have shown flashes of strong play in conference action. Over their last five games, the Buckeyes have recently won over Minnesota in overtime, UCLA, and Oregon, while also recently losing to Washington and Nebraska, showing a mix of momentum-building wins and close setbacks.
From a statistical standpoint, Ohio State is averaging 83.2 points per game while allowing 72.2 points on the defensive end. The Buckeyes are shooting an efficient 50% from the field and averaging 36.9 rebounds per game, allowing them to stay competitive offensively even against high-level opponents.
One area where Ohio State can find success is offensive balance. With 15.8 assists per game and solid interior efficiency, the Buckeyes can score in multiple ways, though their relatively low steal rate means they often rely on half-court execution rather than turnovers.
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Michigan Looking To Reassert Big Ten Dominance
Michigan Wolverines come into this rivalry game with an elite 17-1 overall record and have been dominant at home this season. In their last five games, the Wolverines have recently won over Indiana, Oregon, Washington, and Penn State, while also recently losing a tight contest to Wisconsin, marking their lone blemish during this stretch.
Michigan has been one of the most complete teams in the nation, averaging 92.7 points per game while allowing just 69.0 points. The Wolverines are shooting 52% from the field and pulling down an impressive 42.7 rebounds per game, consistently controlling both tempo and the glass.
Defensively, Michigan stands out with its rim protection and length. The Wolverines average 6.2 blocks per game and 6.7 steals per contest, creating defensive stops that quickly turn into transition scoring opportunities.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs Michigan Wolverines Pick
Ohio State Buckeyes vs Michigan Wolverines Pick
- Pick: Michigan Wolverines -15.5 (-108)
Michigan has a clear edge in depth, efficiency, and defensive presence, especially at home. With the Wolverines averaging nearly 93 points per game and Ohio State facing a significant step up in competition, Michigan is well positioned to separate in the second half and cover the number.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs Michigan Wolverines Total Pick
- Pick: Over 162.5
I’m taking the Over because Michigan consistently pushes the pace and scores efficiently, and Ohio State has enough offensive firepower to contribute its share. With both teams shooting well from the field, this matchup profiles as a high-scoring Big Ten contest.
Final Score Prediction: Michigan 94, Ohio State 78
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