Sunday, February 14, 2010

Final Four Sleeper: Ohio State?

Ohio State won its 9th straight conference game today to go to 20-6 (11-3). They currently have a RPI of 38 and SOS is 89. Pomeroy ratings have them 12th overall and 31st in defensive efficiency. Outside of the conference they have two good wins over California and Florida State and road losses at Butler (Without Turner) and West Virginia, no shame there. They have two big games this week as they play Purdue at home on Wednesday and go to Sparty next Sunday.

Obviously, they are a very good team and have a great player in Evan Turner. Also, keep an eye on Dallas Lauderdale who is a shot-blocking presence on the inside.

They shoot the ball well ranking 6th in FG %. They protect the ball well, too ranking 17th in turnovers. FG% defense is 70th in the nation and would be better if they protected from beyond the arc as they rate 235th in the nation in that regard.

My concern is an average rebound margin of +1.8 and okay FT shooting (About 70%) but I think they're a team to watch down the stretch. Let's see if some of their numbers get better heading into the dance.

No comments: