Illinois Fighting Illini vs Ohio State Buckeyes Picks and Predictions February 2nd 2025

Ohio State Aims to Stay ‘Dialed In’ Against Struggling No. 18 Illinois

Ohio State enters Sunday’s matchup against No. 18 Illinois riding a wave of momentum, while the Illini are searching for answers amid key roster challenges. As both teams battle for position in the competitive Big Ten race, all eyes will be on how Ohio State’s surging backcourt fares against an Illinois squad desperate for a turnaround.

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Ohio State’s Winning Formula: Defense and Guard Play

The Buckeyes (13-8, 5-5 Big Ten) have flipped the script on their season, securing three straight victories behind strong defense and stellar performances from their backcourt duo, John Mobley Jr. and Bruce Thornton.

Ohio State’s hot streak began with a statement win over then-No. 11 Purdue (73-69) on Jan. 21, followed by dominant victories over Iowa (82-65) and Penn State (83-64). Head coach Jake Diebler attributes their recent success to defensive intensity and rebounding.

“That’s two games in a row that defensively we have been dialed in and really done a good job,” Diebler said. “We’ve got to know that every single game you can’t sit and be too happy with your performance. We’ll celebrate this one and then turn the page quickly.”

A key part of this resurgence has been the Mobley-Thornton connection.

• John Mobley Jr. (Freshman): Stepping up in an expanded role, Mobley tallied 19 points and 8 assists in the win over Penn State.
• Bruce Thornton (Junior): He has become even more dangerous with Mobley drawing defensive attention, hitting 11 of 18 three-pointers during Ohio State’s winning streak.

“It feels good to showcase my all-around game,” Mobley said. “Defense, offense, getting people involved—it’s more than just shooting.”

If Ohio State can maintain this balanced attack, they will be tough to stop.

Illinois Struggling Without Ivisic

On the other side, Illinois (14-7, 6-5) is searching for answers after losing three of its last four games, largely due to the absence of center Tomislav Ivisic. The 7-footer, averaging 13 points and 8.5 rebounds, has missed the past three contests due to mononucleosis, and his return remains uncertain.

His absence was particularly glaring in Thursday’s 80-74 overtime loss to Nebraska, a team that had lost six straight games before upsetting the Illini.

Head coach Brad Underwood voiced his frustration, particularly with shot selection.

“Stunk. It’s terrible,” Underwood said. “But that’s part of the problem—not having Tomi. We’ve got to figure it out because I have no idea when we’ll get him back.”

Illinois sophomore guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn acknowledged Ivisic’s importance but emphasized a next-man-up mentality.

“Tomi is one of our best players for sure, but that’s not an excuse,” Gibbs-Lawhorn said. “We have to step up.”

With Ivisic out, Underwood hinted at possible lineup changes ahead of Sunday’s game.

“I’ve got to do something with the starting lineup,” he said. “We don’t know when we’re getting Tomi back, so we’ve got to figure it out in the meantime.”

Whether Illinois can find a new formula without Ivisic will be critical to their chances against a red-hot Ohio State team.

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Key Factors to Watch

1. Can Ohio State Maintain Its Defensive Edge?

The Buckeyes have held opponents to an average of 64.3 points over their last three wins. Keeping up that intensity will be crucial.

2. Will Bruce Thornton Stay Hot From Three?

Thornton has been lethal from beyond the arc, hitting 61% of his threes over the past three games. If Illinois doesn’t contain him, Ohio State could extend its streak.

3. Who Steps Up for Illinois in Ivisic’s Absence?

Without their star center, Illinois needs someone to fill the void—whether it’s Gibbs-Lawhorn, Coleman Hawkins, or Marcus Domask.

Prediction and Outlook

Ohio State enters this game with confidence, while Illinois is still searching for stability. If the Mobley-Thornton duo continues its strong play and the Buckeyes maintain their defensive focus, they will have a strong chance of notching a fourth straight victory.

On the other hand, Illinois needs to respond quickly, either by adjusting its offensive approach or finding someone to compensate for Ivisic’s absence. If the Illini’s shooting struggles continue, Ohio State could take full advantage.

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Projected Score: Ohio State 75, Illinois 68

Final Thoughts

This matchup presents a clash of momentum vs. adversity. Will Ohio State’s hot streak continue, or can Illinois make the necessary adjustments to bounce back? Sunday’s game in Champaign will provide the answer.