Ohio State basketball: How can the Buckeyes win the Big Ten Tournament?

3. The Ohio State basketball team has to capitalize on open shots

The Ohio State basketball team has had its ups and downs on the offensive end this season. At times they look like a top-five offense in the country. Then, there are times when they struggle to hit water if they’re standing on a boat going minutes without making a field goal. And yet, KenPom will still rank them inside the top 25 of offensive efficiency.

This week in Chicago, it is vital for this Buckeyes’ team to not get into any lapses where they go minutes without a field goal and have a massive scoring drought. In order to turn some heads in this tournament, they’ll need to get ridiculously hot on the offensive end.

The main scorers on offense like Sensabaugh, Sueing, and Thornton are all going to create difficult match-ups for opposing teams. The role players have to step up and provide a spark that remains constant as it’s going to be a long stint in Indy if the Buckeyes somehow make it to the weekend.

Ohio State doesn’t have a chance at making the NCAA Tournament unless they win the Big Ten Tournament. In order to do that they will need to win five games in five days. Unfortunately, I don’t see that happening. However, if the Buckeyes get hot and do all the keys mentioned, they could certainly make some noise.

The Ohio State basketball team begins their Big Ten Tournament tonight against Wisconsin at 6:30 pm on Big Ten Network. The Buckeyes are getting the slight nod from Vegas as they open as a three-point favorite over the Badgers.