Ohio State Buckeyes vs Rutgers Scarlet Knights Picks and Predictions for Friday, January 2, 2026

By: David Anicetti Published 01/02/2026, 01:00 AM ET

Ohio State heads to Piscataway on Friday night for a Big Ten matchup at Jersey Mike’s Arena with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. The Buckeyes are 9-3 overall and 1-1 in conference play after an 89-63 home win over Grambling, while Rutgers is 7-6 and 0-2 in the Big Ten following a 65-50 win over Delaware State. Cash a winning ticket with our free college basketball picks.

Ohio State vs Rutgers Game Information

Date: Friday, January 2
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Location: Jersey Mike’s Arena, Piscataway, NJ
TV: Peacock

Ohio State Buckeyes Outlook

Ohio State enters this matchup with one of the better offenses in the conference. The Buckeyes score 86.3 points per game while shooting 51% from the field. Bruce Thornton leads the way with 21.0 points per game and has been highly effective as a scorer and playmaker, adding 4.3 assists per contest. Ohio State’s offense is built around strong guard play and consistent shot selection, allowing them to control tempo.

On the defensive side, Ohio State allows 71.9 points per game and limits opponents with disciplined half-court defense. Christoph Tilly anchors the interior with 5.9 rebounds per game, while the Buckeyes keep mistakes in check by committing just 11.0 turnovers per game. Ohio State’s balance on both ends of the floor has helped it stay competitive in conference play.

Key Stats Per Game

Points: 86.3
Points Allowed: 71.9
Rebounds: 36.9
Assists: 17.3
Steals: 5.3
Blocks: 2.3
Turnovers: 11.0

Rutgers Scarlet Knights Outlook

Rutgers relies on defense and rebounding to stay competitive in Big Ten games. The Scarlet Knights average 68.7 points per game while shooting 40% from the field. Dylan Grant leads the team with 14.4 points per game and provides scoring from multiple areas of the floor. Rutgers looks to slow games down and limit possessions to offset its scoring limitations.

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Defensively, Rutgers allows 71.0 points per game and focuses on protecting the paint. Emmanuel Ogbole leads the team with 7.0 rebounds per game and provides a shot-blocking presence inside. Turnovers have been an issue, as Rutgers commits 12.0 per game, which has made it difficult to sustain offense against more efficient teams.

Key Stats Per Game

Points: 68.7
Points Allowed: 71.0
Rebounds: 36.4
Assists: 10.5
Steals: 6.4
Blocks: 3.8
Turnovers: 12.0

Ohio State Buckeyes vs Rutgers Scarlet Knights Prediction

Ohio State controls this game with its strong offense and backcourt leadership. The Buckeyes will score consistently, protect the ball, and force Rutgers to play from behind, where the Scarlet Knights struggle to generate offense. Ohio State’s ability to create clean looks and limit turnovers will help the Buckeyes open a double-digit lead late. Final Score Prediction: Ohio State Buckeyes win and cover ATS, 81-64. Check out all the sportsbook promos to see if you are getting a great deal on your bets on Ohio State. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for Rutgers with the Kickr promo code. Make sure when you place your bet on Ohio State vs Rutgers you are using the BetMGM bonus code.

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