Stumbling Down The Stretch
Ohio State traveled to Maryland to face the Terrapins. Ohio State won a tough game against Illinois in their previous contest, while Maryland lost to Indiana. Maryland got out to an early lead, which caused an eruption from the fans. Maryland went on an 8-0 run. Ohio State would battle back to keep the game close. Ohio State manufactured points as they used sets to pick and roll. Kyle Young’s layup would give the Buckeyes an 11-10 lead. It was an 11-2 run from Ohio State. Maryland’s offensive was highly effective as they consistently dribbled to the paint, created space, and scored points. At halftime, Maryland was leading 32-28.
Maryland guard Daron Russell was the facilitator as his speed and quick hands created scoring opportunities for his teammates. On the other end of the floor, Ohio State knocked down a pair of three-pointers to cut the Terrapin lead to one point. Ohio State was leading in the offensive rebound department, though they were still behind in the game. Ohio State was impatient as they kept trying to reach in for a steal, which proved cost worthy as Maryland scored. Maryland’s offensive was on fire as they drained deep three-pointers, which widened their lead to eleven points with over four minutes remaining in the game. Ohio State could not muster a comeback and would end up losing to Maryland 75-60.
Anytime a team steals the ball seven times, it is hard to beat them. A team can’t expect to win in college basketball, let alone win in the Big Ten if you can’t defend well. Daron Russell was unstoppable as he knocked down six three-pointers and scored 27 points. As talented as Ohio State is, they have been inconsistent, and that is a cause for concern with three regular-season games left. Ohio State hosts a struggling Nebraska on Tuesday. Let me remind you that Nebraska has won eight games in total this season.
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