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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

NCAA Men’s Basketball action will see a high-stakes game between two ranked competitors in the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and the Ohio State Buckeyes. The Scarlet Knights are on the precipice of breaking into the top 10, currently sitting at #11. Meanwhile, the Buckeyes are looking to solidify their spot as a top-25 team. They are currently #23 and in danger of falling off.

Ohio State could have been undefeated right now, but they fell to an upset at the hands of Purdue University. They currently have a record of 6-1. Meanwhile, the Scarlet Knights have established themselves as genuine contenders. They have done so by being undefeated in their first six games. This included an impressive win over the Illinois Fighting Illini.

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However, is this matchup a foregone conclusion, considering how highly Rutgers are lauded this year? Or is there a possible upset brewing at the hand of the Buckeyes?

NCAA Men’s Basketball: Can Rutgers hold off Ohio State and stay undefeated?

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Rutgers would have been in the running for the NCAA Tournament last season, but the tournament was canceled due to COVID-19. However, the core stayed together for this season. One of the best defensive teams from last season added offense and is now another win away from being ranked in the top-10.

USA Today via Reuters

The Buckeyes are a good team and have a lot of potential. They have shown that through strong performances against teams like the UCLA Bruins, who were on a six-game win-streak themselves when they faced Ohio State. They have the tools to beat anyone and will see lead scorer E..J. Liddel return after spending some time out with an illness.

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The Buckeyes will line up with Liddell, C.J. Walker, Kyle Young, Justice Sueing, and Duane Washington Jr. The Scarlet Knights will take the floor with Ron Harper Jr., Montez Mathis, Paul Mulcahy, Cliff Omoruyi, and Jacob Young.

As for our prediction, we are leaning towards an upset. It is a massive shot in the dark, but this game is at Ohio State. The Scarlet Knights may be a little thin, depth-wise, with certain rotation players still listed as game-time decisions. If there is ever an opportunity to take a win from this team, it is now.