Ohio State March Madness Projections: Buckeyes on The Bubble?
After experiencing some highs during non-conference play, the Ohio State Buckeyes have gotten punched in the mouth in the early stages of night-to-night Big Ten action.
Currently on a three-game losing streak while holding a 2-4 conference record, the Buckeyes (12-5) have some strides to make before postseason play arrives. Luckily, the latest March Madness projections still gives Ohio State a solid chance of being a bubble team, a position coach Chris Holtmann and Co. wish they could've been in at the end of last season before missing the tournament.
© Rick Osentoski, USA TODAY
ESPN's latest Bracketology update currently has Ohio State among the first four out of the NCAA Tournament along with New Mexico, Providence and Boise State. The Buckeyes' most impressive win is the the 92-81 upset victory over then-No. 17 Alabama on Nov. 24. However, conference losses to under-performing teams like Penn State and Michigan has put an early dent in Ohio State's resume, and things won't be getting any easier.
The Buckeyes still have upcoming ranked matchups against teams like Illinois, Wisconsin and Purdue. Half of their remaining regular-season games are on the road.
Ohio State will likely experience more bumps and bruises during the final 14 games, but securing a few more ranked wins could potentially help the Buckeyes sneak into the tournament as a potential First Four team. This wouldn't be the worst outcome, as OSU would then get somewhat of a homecourt advantage with that opening portion of the tournament being held in Dayton, Ohio, just an hour drive from Columbus.
The Buckeyes are getting a few days of rest before hosting Penn State on Saturday at 12 p.m. ET.
