Ranking each Big Ten basketball team entering conference play
10. Ohio State Buckeyes
Based on how its non-conference schedule played out, Ohio State could have a wide range of outcomes in Big Ten play, but it still appears to be one of the most talented teams in the league. The Buckeyes have picked up some nice victories over Texas, Rutgers, and most recently fourth-ranked Kentucky. However, Ohio State has also mixed in some puzzling blowout defeats, losing to Maryland by 24 points and Auburn by 38. Greater consistency will be needed for Ohio State to challenge for a Big Ten title in Jake Diebler鈥檚 first full season as head coach, particularly on the defensive end. Offensively, the Buckeyes rank in the top 50 in the nation, putting up nearly 83 points per contest. Sophomore Devin Royal has emerged as a real threat down low and Bruce Thornton and Meechie Johnson form a scary backcourt duo for Big Ten opponents.
