The UNC Tar Heels will face the Ohio State Buckeyes in a highly anticipated matchup on December 20, 2023. The game, taking place at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, marks the second contest of the CBS Sports Classic and features a compelling clash between a ranked team and its unranked opponent. Currently, UNC holds a record of 10-1, placing them at No. 12 in the latest AP poll, while Ohio State has a respectable 8-2 record.
Fans can catch the action starting at 3:00 PM ET on CBS and Paramount. As the teams prepare for this Big Ten versus ACC encounter, the odds suggest a tight contest. According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Ohio State is positioned as a +4.5 underdog with a moneyline of +168, while UNC stands at -205. The total points line is set at 154.5, with both the over and under receiving equal odds of -110.
Betting Trends and Insights
Several betting trends highlight the dynamics of this matchup. The Tar Heels have a strong history against the spread, going 14-6 in their last 20 games. Notably, they have succeeded in covering the spread in six of their last seven games against Ohio State. On the other hand, the Buckeyes have faced challenges recently, going 1-5 against the spread in their last six games against ACC teams.
For bettors, understanding these trends is crucial. The UNDER has prevailed in five consecutive games for UNC, while Ohio State has seen the OVER hit in four of its last five contests. This context sets the stage for an intriguing matchup that could sway either way.
Key Player to Watch
A standout player in this matchup is Bruce Thornton, a guard for Ohio State. Currently, he ranks eighth in the nation with an impressive average of 21.8 points per game. Alongside his scoring ability, he contributes with an average of 5.0 rebounds and 4.4 assists, showcasing his versatility on the court. Thornton recently delivered a remarkable performance with 34 points against Illinois and followed it up with 23 points against West Virginia. His ability to lead the Buckeyes could be pivotal in determining the game’s outcome.
As the teams prepare for the showdown, Ohio State’s efficient offensive strategy, ranking 13th nationally in effective field goal percentage, presents a formidable challenge for UNC. The Tar Heels have maintained a strong defensive presence in 2023, but they will need to ensure their shooting remains consistent against a determined Buckeyes squad.
Predictions and Expectations
With Ohio State viewed as an underrated opponent, there is a sense of optimism surrounding their ability to compete effectively against UNC. The Buckeyes’ strengths, particularly their offensive capabilities led by Thornton, could exploit any shooting struggles from the Tar Heels. If UNC’s shooting falters, Ohio State has the potential to seize the opportunity for an upset.
For those looking to place bets on the game, taking Ohio State at +4.5 might be a prudent choice given their performance metrics and player capabilities. As the anticipation builds for this exciting encounter, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how both teams execute their game plans on the court.
For further betting opportunities, new users can create an account with FanDuel Sportsbook to potentially receive $150 in bonus bets with their first $5 wager. This promotion adds an extra layer of excitement for those looking to engage with the game beyond just watching.
As the game approaches, the stakes are high, and both teams are prepared to leave it all on the court in what promises to be a thrilling contest on December 20.
