The Minnesota Golden Gophers (11-5, 2-5 Big Ten) face the Ohio State Buckeyes (12-4, 5-2 Big Ten) in a key conference matchup. While Minnesota sits near the bottom of the Big Ten standings, they're coming off a close 68-65 win against Rutgers. Ohio State remains in the conference's top four.

Team Analysis and Stats:

Ohio State's Success Factors:

• Rank 22nd in three-point percentage
• 17th in two-point percentage
• 15th in overall shooting percentage
• Main weakness: Limited offensive rebounds due to size constraints

Minnesota's Defensive Strengths:

• Hold opponents under 70 points consistently
• Rank 34th in opponent three-pointers made (5.8 per game)
• 15th in opponent free throws attempted (12.8 per game)
• Excel at forcing inside shots

Key Players:

Ohio State:

• EJ Liddell: 19.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 51.2% shooting
• Coming off a week's rest

Minnesota:

• Potential starters out: Jamison Battle, EJ Stephens, Eric Curry
• Payton Willis: Coming off 32-point performance vs Rutgers

Prediction: Ohio State should win by 5-10 points, leveraging their superior talent and shooting efficiency. However, if Minnesota returns to full strength at home, expect a closer contest. The Buckeyes' consistent shooting and EJ Liddell's leadership should prove decisive.

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