Ohio State Faces Ranked Rival in Salt Lake City Amid Rebounding Struggles
The Buckeyes, who lost the rebounding battle in both exhibitions, aim for their first win over a ranked team since February.
By Adam Richardson ·
Ohio State men’s basketball fans face a steep opening challenge this Monday. The Buckeyes travel to Salt Lake City to face No. 25 BYU at the Delta Center at 9 p.m. EST. This matchup represents a critical early test for a program that did not defeat a ranked opponent until mid-February last season.
The Buckeyes will open their 2026-27 campaign against a team that brings in 10 newcomers and returns third-team All-Big 12 guard Robert Wright III. Head coach Jake Diebler noted that BYU’s roster features multiple offensive threats. He stated that four or five players are capable of having a big night offensively, creating versatility that allows the Cougars to play with pace.
Ohio State’s preparation has focused on correcting issues exposed in exhibition play. In a 79-68 loss to Cincinnati on October 7 and an 82-73 win over Butler on October 25, the team was outrebounded by a combined 19 rebounds. Diebler emphasized the need for defensive focus and improved rebounding ahead of the season opener. He said, “We’ve got to rebound better.”
The coaching staff also addressed the team's handling of the ball. In both exhibition games, Ohio State recorded more turnovers than assists. Diebler acknowledged that while off-court chemistry has been strong, the team must translate that connection to the court. He noted that when spacing is good and the ball moves, the team plays well, but they must execute this more consistently.
Diebler identified depth as a potential strength for the Buckeyes. He said the team has the most depth and talent he has had in three seasons as head coach. The plan involves wearing opponents down with hard play, leveraging the fact that Ohio State can field 10 or 11 players while other teams may not.
Guard John Mobley Jr., a Preseason All-Big Ten selection, left the exhibition game against Butler Sunday in the final minutes with an ankle injury. Diebler said the team is not yet in a position to determine if Mobley or anyone else will be missing for the BYU game. He added that the team must double down on its principles to make on-the-fly adjustments.
The Buckeyes have struggled against ranked opponents away from home in recent history. Last season, Ohio State played four ranked teams outside the Schottenstein Center and lost all four. The team seeks to change that trend in Salt Lake City.
BYU is one of nine ranked teams on the Buckeyes’ schedule. Four of those ranked opponents are nonconference teams. The first of those challenges begins Monday night in Utah.
Source: The Lantern
