Big Ten Basketball: Michigan’s rout puts them on top of Power Rankings

4. Ohio State Buckeyes (10-3, 4-3 Big Ten)

On Wednesday night, the Buckeyes became the fifth team in the Big Ten to hit ten victories when they took care of business against Northwestern. The win also pushed Ohio State above .500 in league play.

The game was the focus of the conference, as it was the only Big Ten game played on Wednesday. Duane Washington Jr. dropped a career-high 23 points in the win and the Buckeyes managed to hit half of their shots.

The Buckeyes are playing well, but they’ve yet to distinguish themselves against the conference’s proven contenders. Their four Big Ten wins came against Rutgers (twice), Nebraska, and now Northwestern, who they previously lost to this year.

Ohio State is dealing with some significant injuries, which could affect their long-term outlook. They’re currently without CJ Walker and Jimmy Sotos and are looking perilously think at the point guard position. A return to health is needed for Ohio State to reach their ceiling.

The Buckeyes will have a big chance to change their fate against big-time Big Ten players  on Saturday, when they travel to face the Fighting Illini. A win against Illinois on the road would have people taking Ohio State much more seriously.