Ohio State vs. Indiana: Game Predictions as the Buckeyes Move Closer to the Big Ten Championship
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State will face its third top-five opponent this Saturday when it takes on Indiana.
For one team, this game is a chance to secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game for the first time, while also making a strong national impression. The other is aiming to return to the title game for the first time since 2020.
The Buckeyes have split their matchups against top-tier opponents this season, but both of those games were on the road. Now, Ohio State will host a Hoosiers team that, despite still being undefeated, has many doubters questioning their legitimacy.
Ohio State enters the game as a 13-point favorite. Here’s a look at the predictions for the contest.
Ohio State 38, Indiana 10
Cignetti’s remarkable job in leading Indiana to a playoff-worthy season deserves recognition. However, it’s also clear that there may be a significant talent gap between these two teams. At some point during Saturday’s game, that disparity will likely become the deciding factor.
This matchup has similar vibes to Ohio State’s 56-7 victory over Michigan State in 2021, where a new coach, fresh off an extension, arrived in Columbus hoping to make a statement — only to be outclassed.
Game Prediction: Ohio State -13
Over/Under: Under 51
Record: 9-1
Against the Spread: 6-4
Over/Under Record: 4-5-1
Tokens Left: 126
Stefan Krajisnik’s Prediction
Ohio State 41, Indiana 6
After overcoming some early challenges, Ohio State dominated its win over Penn State, despite the final score being closer than it seemed. Saturday’s game against Indiana could unfold similarly.
The Buckeyes will likely maintain a lead of 7-10 points throughout the contest, ultimately pulling away late to secure the win.
While Indiana will prove itself worthy of being in the College Football Playoff conversation at 11-1, Ohio State will demonstrate why it’s considered one of the top teams in the country.
Game Prediction: Ohio State -13
Over/Under: Under 51
Record: 9-1
Against the Spread: 5-5
Over/Under Record: 4-5-1
Tokens Left: 90
Andrew Gillis’ Prediction
Ohio State 35, Indiana 20
This game has been difficult to predict due to Indiana’s weak strength of schedule, which is ranked 106th according to ESPN, falling between teams like Hawai’i and South Alabama.
However, I believe Indiana will have some tricks up its sleeve. Coming off a bye week, head coach Curt Cignetti is unlikely to play conservatively. Indiana will manage to stay competitive for a while, but Ohio State’s sheer talent will be too much for the Hoosiers to overcome.
As the game progresses, Ohio State’s depth and talent will become evident, and they will pull away. However, with the game comfortably decided, Indiana will likely close the gap in an effort to bolster its College Football Playoff resume.
Game Prediction: Ohio State -13
Over/Under: Over 51
Record: 8-2
Against the Spread: 4-6
Leave a Reply