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Virginia Cavaliers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes: Preview, Prediction, and How to Watch

4 months agoUS
Virginia Cavaliers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes: Preview, Prediction, and How to WatchSource: virginiasports.com
The No. 15 Virginia Cavaliers (21-3, 10-2 ACC) are set to face the Ohio State Buckeyes (16-8, 8-6 Big Ten) in a neutral site game at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 14, 2026. Here's a preview of the matchup, including key insights, how to watch, and betting odds.

Key Insights

No. 15 Virginia faces Ohio State in Nashville, Tenn. at Bridgestone Arena.

Virginia is favored by 4.5 points, with an over/under of 146.5.

Virginia has won five straight games.

Ohio State is looking for its first win against a ranked team this season (0-5).

Ryan Odom is in his first season as head coach at Virginia, leading the Cavaliers to a 21-3 record.

In-Depth Analysis

Game Overview

Virginia and Ohio State face off in a non-conference game with implications for both teams. Virginia, currently ranked No. 15, looks to continue their winning streak and solidify their NCAA Tournament seeding. Ohio State, on the bubble, needs a win against a ranked opponent to boost their tournament chances.

Key Players

Virginia Cavaliers:

Thijs De Ridder: Leads the team in scoring (16.1 ppg) and rebounding (6.6 rpg).

Malik Thomas: Averages 12.2 ppg and 4.0 rpg.

Sam Lewis: Contributes 10.6 ppg and 3.7 rpg.

Ohio State Buckeyes:

Bruce Thornton: Leads the team in scoring with 19.3 ppg, along with 5.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists.

John Mobley Jr.: Averages 15.1 ppg.

Devin Royal: Adds 14.0 ppg and 5.7 rpg.

Betting Insights

Spread:: Virginia is favored by 4.5 points.

Over/Under:: 146.5 points.

Moneyline:: Virginia -197, Ohio State +159.

Virginia has been strong as a favorite this season, while Ohio State has struggled against ranked opponents. The implied score based on the spread and over/under is Virginia 76, Ohio State 71.

How to Watch

The game will be televised on FOX and streamed on FOXSports.com, the FOX Sports App, and FOX One.

FAQs

What time does the game start?

8 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Where is the game being played?

Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.

What channel is the game on?

FOX.

Key Takeaways

For Virginia fans, this game is an opportunity to continue their strong season and secure a high seed in the NCAA Tournament. For Ohio State fans, this is a crucial game to improve their tournament chances with a win over a ranked opponent. Keep an eye on key players like Virginia's Thijs De Ridder and Ohio State's Bruce Thornton, who will likely play a significant role in the outcome.

Discussion

Do you think Ohio State can pull off the upset against Virginia? Share your predictions in the comments below! Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

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