Michigan at Ohio State Odds, Picks & Betting Tips

The Ohio State–Michigan men's basketball rivalry is a longstanding Big Ten Conference matchup. While not as intense or historic as their football rivalry, it features competitive games, high-stakes conference play, and occasional tournament drama.

The most recent game was on January 23, 2026 — #3 Michigan 74, Ohio State 62 (at Crisler Center, Ann Arbor). Michigan pulled away in the second half, led by strong rebounding and depth. Yaxel Lendeborg led Michigan with 18 points and 9 rebounds; Morez Johnson added 12.

Michigan has surged under head coach Dusty May. It is boasting elite defense, depth, and a top-5 ranking early in 2026. OSU, coached by Jake Diebler, has been solid but inconsistent in Big Ten play.

The rivalry has produced multiple All-Americans, Big Ten Players of the Year, and NCAA Tournament participants on both sides. In summary, it's a respected Big Ten basketball rivalry with OSU holding the all-time edge. But Michigan currently holds the momentum in the 2025–26 season after its January win.

The upcoming home game for the Buckeyes will be a big opportunity to even the season series and boost NCAA Tournament positioning.

Michigan at Ohio State Preview

On Sunday, February 8, 2026, the Ohio State Buckeyes will host the Michigan Wolverines at Schottenstein Center in Columbus, OH. Tipoff is at 1 p.m. ET, with television coverage on CBS.

Public NCAA Basketball Betting Odds Factors

Several key players for the Ohio State Buckeyes are dealing with injuries that have significantly impacted their frontcourt depth. Most notably, senior forward Brandon Noel is out indefinitely with a foot injury suffered in early January.

The Wolverines are relatively healthy, with no significant rotational players currently sidelined by long-term injuries. The Wolverines have managed several minor ailments throughout the 2025–26 season.

Michigan at Ohio State Predictions

Handicapping Factors to Consider

Michigan has one of the nation's best at limiting scores/possessions; OSU may struggle to score consistently.

The Wolverines have Superior size, physicality, and interior dominance.

Michigan owns the far superior record, road-tested veterans, and proven late-game execution under Dusty May.

Michigan has the advantages of a hot streak, a recent head-to-head win, and national title-level play.

Michigan's defensive edge often prevails.

Michigan at Ohio State Prime Best Bet: Michigan Wolverines

Michigan at Ohio State Betting Tips

Michigan Wolverines

Michigan has national metrics of 8th for scoring offense, 10^th for field goal percentage, 153^rd for 3-point field goal percentage, 153^rd for free throw percentage, and 12^th for offensive rebounding.

On defense, the Wolverines have national metrics of 54^th for scoring defense, 2^nd for field goal percentage permitted, 28^th for 3-point field goal percentage allowed, and 31^st for defensive rebounding.

The Michigan Wolverines are 21-1 straight up, 11-11 against the spread, and 9-13 over/under the total. Late on, Michigan has covered two straight games.

The Wolverines have gone over the total in their last two games.

Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State has national metrics of 93^rd for scoring offense, 28^th for field goal percentage, 198^th for 3-point field goal percentage, 9^th for free throw percentage, and 241^st for offensive rebounding.

On defense, the Buckeyes have national metrics of 148^th for scoring defense, 129^th for field goal percentage permitted, 41st for 3-point field goal percentage allowed, and 48th for defensive rebounding.

The Buckeyes are 15-7 straight up, 10-12 against the spread, and 11-11 over/under the total. Late in the season, Ohio State has covered one of its last three games.