Iowa Hawkeyes vs Ohio State Buckeyes Pick – 3/12/2025

The Iowa Hawkeyes and the Ohio State Buckeyes are set to face off in the first round of the Big Ten Tournament on March 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM Eastern Time. The game will take place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Both teams are looking to advance in the tournament and improve their standings for potential NCAA Tournament bids.

Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Game Preview

The Iowa Hawkeyes concluded the regular season with a 16-15 overall record and a 7-13 mark in Big Ten play, securing the 15th seed in the conference tournament. They snapped a three-game losing streak with an 83-68 victory over Nebraska in their season finale. Iowa's offense has been a strong point, averaging 82.3 points per game, ranking second in the Big Ten and 17th nationally. Senior forward Owen Freeman leads the team with 16.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. However, their defense has struggled, allowing 79.2 points per game, the highest in the conference.

The Ohio State Buckeyes finished the regular season at 17-14 overall and 9-11 in conference play, earning the 10th seed. They ended the season with a 66-60 loss to Indiana but had won two of their previous three games. Ohio State's offense averages 79.1 points per game, fifth in the Big Ten. Junior guard Bruce Thornton is the team's top scorer, averaging 17.5 points and 4.5 assists per game. Defensively, the Buckeyes allow 73.4 points per game and have been effective in limiting opponents' shooting percentages.

Betting Insights

• Point Spread: Ohio State is favored by 5.5 points.
• Moneyline: Ohio State -149, Iowa +268.
• Total Points (Over/Under): 155.5.

These odds suggest that Ohio State is expected to win by a margin of approximately 5.5 points, with a total combined score projected around 155.5 points.

Betting Trends

• Ohio State has covered the spread in five of their last six games against Iowa.
• The total has gone over in four of Ohio State's last six games.
• Iowa has struggled on the road, failing to cover the spread in seven of their last ten away games.

Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Prediction

Considering the current form and statistical analysis, Ohio State appears to have the advantage in this matchup. Their balanced offense and relatively stronger defense position them well against an Iowa team that has been inconsistent, particularly on the defensive end. The Buckeyes' ability to limit turnovers and capitalize on Iowa's defensive vulnerabilities could be the deciding factor. Therefore, the prediction is that Ohio State will cover the 5.5-point spread, with the total points likely exceeding 155.5, given both teams' offensive capabilities.