Ohio State vs. West Virginia: 2019-20 key storylines for ranked matchup

1) Ohio State vs. West Virginia’s press

This is always a key to watch whenever West Virginia plays and, even though they’re pressing less than they have in years past, their pressure is still a vital part of their defense.

On paper, Ohio State appears to have the backcourt to handle whatever the Mountaineers will throw at them. Freshman D.J. Carton is emerging as one of the best players in the Big Ten and junior C.J. Walker brings experience and savviness. Both rank in the top 200 in the country in assist rate and, while both are point guards, they have shown the ability to play alongside each other.

Many opposing coaches like to go with two point guards (if they can) whenever they play WVU due to the ball-handling and decision-making ability it can provide. However, along with having those two point guards, the Buckeyes also have other backcourt players who are more than capable of handling the ball in Luther Muhammad, Duane Washington, and Andre Wesson.

This group has been key during Ohio State’s hot start as they only turn it over on just over 19 percent of their possessions and the assist on over half their baskets (58.7 percent, 46th nationally).

On the flip side, West Virginia ranks in the top 75 in the country in steal rate. Their pressure has also helped them become one of the nation’s leaders in three-point defense, ranking 4th in that category.

Ohio State’s ability to navigate that pressure – or West Virginia’s ability to get the Buckeyes out of rhythm – will play a big role in determining who wins this game.