Illinois Fighting Illini vs Ohio State Buckeyes NCAAB Betting Pick & Prediction for 12/9

The Illinois Fighting Illini, ranked 13th, will take on the Ohio State Buckeyes on Tuesday evening. This Big Ten conference game will be held at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio. Illinois comes into the game as the favorite, with a spread of -4.5 and a moneyline of -187.

Ohio State, the underdog, has a spread of +4.5 and a moneyline of +149. Both teams are off to strong starts this season. Illinois has a 7-2 record, while Ohio State holds a 7-1 record. The game will be broadcast on PEAC at 7:30 PM ET.

Illinois Fighting Illini vs Ohio State Buckeyes Game Day Info

• Sport: College Basketball
• Teams: Illinois Fighting Illini vs Ohio State Buckeyes
• Venue: Value City Arena, Columbus OH
• Date: Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 7:30 PM ET
• Betting Odds: Illinois Spread: -4.5 (-105), Ohio State Spread: +4.5 (-115), Illinois MoneyLine: -187, Ohio State MoneyLine: +149, Over/Under: 157.5

Illinois Fighting Illini Team Preview

The Illinois Fighting Illini are having a strong season with a 7-2 record. They are ranked 13th in the AP poll and play in the Big Ten conference. Their recent performance includes a win against Tennessee and a loss to Connecticut.

Offensively, the team scores an average of 88.7 points per game. They are efficient in their field goals, with a percentage of 48.1. Their rebounding is also solid, with an average of 43.1 rebounds per game.

Kylan Boswell is a key player, averaging 17 points per game. Tomislav Ivisic contributes with a 60% field goal percentage. David Mirkovic is notable for his rebounding, grabbing 9.6 rebounds per game.

Ohio State Buckeyes Team Preview

Ohio State Buckeyes are off to a strong start this season with a record of 7-1. Their performance at home has been perfect, winning all six games. Their only loss came on the road against Pittsburgh Panthers by one point.

Offensively, the Buckeyes are ranked 32nd in points per game, averaging 88.4. They are third in the nation for field goal percentage, hitting 53.0% of their shots. Their effective field goal percentage is also impressive at 60.9%, placing them eighth.

Bruce Thornton has been a key player, averaging 20.1 points per game. Brandon Noel is contributing with 9.1 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Devin Royal adds 13.4 points and 5.1 rebounds, providing solid support for the team.

BTB Betting Pick

For the spread pick, take Ohio State +4.5. Illinois has a strong offense, but Ohio State’s efficient shooting and solid free throw percentage can keep the game close. With both teams scoring similarly per game, Ohio State’s ability to make the most of their possessions gives them a good chance to cover the spread.

For the over/under, consider taking the over at 157.5. Both teams average over 88 points per game, making a high-scoring game likely. Illinois’ quick pace and Ohio State’s efficient shooting suggest the total points will exceed the set line. Expect a projected score around Illinois 82, Ohio State 81, hitting the over.