As the college basketball season heats up, Ohio finds itself in a precarious position, needing quality wins to build a tournament resume. With a NET ranking of 228 and a quad record of 0-2 in Q1 and Q2 games, the Bobcats are running out of opportunities to make a statement. Their upcoming matchup against Northern Illinois, with a NET ranking of 319, presents a chance to notch a crucial win, albeit in a Quad 4 contest. According to the CHD Scout prediction, Ohio is favored to win by 7.8 points, with a 76.3% win probability.
Northern Illinois, meanwhile, has struggled to find consistency, boasting a 7-13 record and a 3-6 conference mark. Their quad record is underwhelming, with a 0-7 mark in Q3 games. While the Huskies have shown flashes of resilience, their overall performance suggests they'll face an uphill battle against the Bobcats. With both teams seeking to bolster their tournament hopes, this matchup takes on added significance, even if it's not a traditional "quality" win for Ohio.
CHD Scout Prediction
Northern Illinois
69
Ohio
77
Given the current landscape, Ohio should be able to dictate the pace and secure a victory. The Bobcats' recent form has been uneven, with a win sandwiched between two losses, but they've shown the ability to bounce back from adversity. In the absence of any notable player momentum for either team, Ohio's overall talent and home-court advantage should give them the edge they need. I predict Ohio will emerge victorious, 77-69, behind a strong team effort and a much-needed boost to their tournament prospects.