Pedro Oliveira
In this preview of the playoff between Ohio State University against Loyola University Chicago, we bring you all the details so that you are aware of everything that happens with both teams. The Buckeyes are looking to turn around a season where injuries haven’t left them alone. while Loyola is more than ready to secure one more upset in this tournament Who will be the winner and advance in the NCAA March Madness?
Picks and Predictions for the Ohio State Buckeyes vs Loyola Chicago Ramblers NCAA Basketball Championship Round 1 Game on March 18 2022
- Where: PPG Paints Arena – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- When: Friday, March 18, 12:15 PM ET
- Betting Line: Ohio State Buckeyes (+1) vs Loyola Chicago Ramblers (-1)
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Preview
- Overall Record: 19-11
- Conference Record: 19-11
- Spread: +1
- Over/Under: Under 132.5
- Moneyline: -105
As we mentioned at the start, injuries to Zed Key, Justice Sueing, Meechie Johnson and Kyle Young (who remains a doubt for this match) have dismantled and destabilised any kind of progress the team could have made throughout the campaign. Losing four of their last five games, they also don’t come with good pace to the appointment against Loyola.
The Morale of the Buckeyes is also not in a good position, losing these games after a good first half, and finishing collapsing in the second. Despite this, E.J. Liddell has been a light in the dark for the program, averaging 19.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.6 blocks per game.
Loyola Chicago Ramblers Betting Preview
- Overall Record: 25-7
- Conference Record: 25-7
- Spread: -1
- Over/Under: Over 132.5
- Moneyline: -115
Although they have lowered the defensive level a bit compared to the beginning of the season, Loyola is now a team capable offensively to put anyone in trouble, with a very reliable three-pointer and versatility through its rotation, which is one of the most extensive in the entire NCAA. Through experience they will be able to quickly identify what is needed to cause a collapse in the Ohio State team at any time during the game.
The duo of Lucas Williamson (14 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 1.3 steals) and Braden Norris (10.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.1 steals) will be tasked with consistently supporting the Ramblers with their great efficiencies from a distance. They will have to take care of their paint, which is the most vulnerable area they present in this matchup.
JefeBet Prediction
We don’t see Ohio State raising its head against a team as solid as the Ramblers, even with the return of their absentees, so much time without pace is differential. Loyola Chicago will not give many surprises with their upset, they are a team that are in high trend, and we hope to see them in the second round thanks to a score of 75 to 68.
