Villanova at Ohio State: 5 key storylines for the 2019 Gavitt Games matchup

Villanova and Ohio State will meet in Columbus for arguably the best matchup in the 2019 Gavitt Games. Which aspects of the matchup are worth monitoring?

Villanova. Ohio State. These two programs represent the elite of college basketball. Although neither is quite recognized as a “blueblood”, you would be hard-pressed to find many programs that have been better over the last two decades. Also, both schools look poised to continue their spectacular runs of success under elite-level head coaches. Jay Wright (Villanova) and Chris Holtmann (Ohio State) are two of the best, and most well-liked, in the business and they have earned the benefit of the doubt year in and year out.

With regard to this 2019-20 campaign, both coaches have put together superb rosters capable of competing for the national championship. Neither team is especially experienced but the talent levels are exceedingly high. As a result, the Wildcats (No. 10) and the Buckeyes (No. 12) are both rated extremely well in our most recent national power rankings after just one week of action.

Now, though, the two powerhouses will be pit against each other on Nov. 13th as part of the Gavitt Tip-Off Games. While there are several quality matchups in this Big Ten vs. Big East event, this contest deserves the most hype. Both programs involved have national title aspirations this season, feature top-tier head coaches, and will bring NBA scouts out in droves for their freshmen talents. The Champions Classic took center stage during the opening week of college basketball but now is the time for the Gavitt Games to shine.

Who: Villanova Wildcats (1-0) at Ohio State Buckeyes (2-0)

When: Wednesday, Nov. 13th at 7:00 pm ET

Where: Value City Arena in Columbus, OH

TV Schedule: Fox Sports 1

With tip-off of this matchup approaching quickly, let’s dive a bit deeper into five key storylines/questions to follow.