Previewing Cleveland’s Second Half Schedule
February 20, 2011While We’re Waiting… Optimism Abounds for Tribe, NFL Draft Value and Inventing the Facemask
February 21, 2011The Big Ten Conference schedule continues to heat up, and the Ohio State Buckeyes face an old rival in a rematch this afternoon. The No. 3 Buckeyes travel to Mackey Arena in West Lafayette, Ind. to face the No. 11 Purdue Boilermakers today at 1 p.m.
Nearly a month ago, an impressive 23-point home victory by OSU propelled the team to the nation’s top ranking and to becoming the only undefeated team. Now, after a loss last week to Wisconsin, the Buckeyes are looking for a crucial road victory to gain an upper leg in the race for the regular season conference title.
Stay tuned this afternoon and follow along in the comments as Thad Matta’s crew attempts to improve to 26-1 on the season, and potentially move back to the top spot in the rankings. Assorted previews from around the web are after the jump.
OSU opinions before facing No. 11 Purdue on the road:
“With 5 games remaining in the Big Ten schedule, Ohio State comes into West Lafayette looking to strike a major blow in their quest for the regular season conference title.” [Joe/Eleven Warriors]
“Unfortunately, it’s already time for our return trip; the chance for Matt Painter’s team to try to redeem themselves in front of their home crowd.” [Eric/Buckeye Battle Cry]
“1. It’s been Upset Weekend. And here come the Ohio State Buckeyes, on the cusp of No. 1 again, facing a tough one at Purdue. That’s No. 11 Purdue, winners of three straight and the same Purdue that basically laid down and watched OSU make a mockery of what was supposed to be a big game in Columbus four weeks ago.” [Zac Jackson/Fox Sports Ohio]
“The Boilermakers are amongst the top teams in the country. In the offensive front court, Purdue doesn’t squander many possessions as it gives the ball away just 10.7 times per game.” [Big Ten Network]
“A few weeks ago, Ohio State’s run at perfection was the talk of college basketball. One loss later, the Buckeyes are in a fight for their conference title.” [Associated Press]
(Photo above via AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)