Ohio State vs. Iowa

[ScarletBlooded]

Tuesday 3/3 at 9:05 p.m. on the Big Ten Network

The Hawkeyes shouldn't be too much of a problem for the Buckeyes, but then again, there's no telling what'll happen in any given game so once again, this is a must win for the Bucks. They're still on the bubble as far as I know but we can't afford any more losses.

[ScarletBlooded]

It wasn't a pretty win but we'll take the 60-58 win as it'll help us get momentum going to the Big Ten tournament. Evan Turner once again is the MVP of that game with 22 points and made the most of all of his shots accompanied by Jon Diebler's 12.

I honestly think Simmons really should start over P.J. Hill. Simmons is a far more efficient PG and him only coming off the bench with his minutes reduced doesn't help us much. The Hawkeyes really hassled Hill.

[Nate]

It's a win but I think they needed to be a little more impressive.  If they win their next game, I think they're in.

[AutoModGod]

I honestly think Simmons really should start over P.J. Hill. Simmons is a far more efficient PG and him only coming off the bench with his minutes reduced doesn't help us much. The Hawkeyes really hassled Hill.

I thought we moved the ball better with Simmons in the game too.  I have learned to admire PJ's effort and spunk, but I agree with you with one caveat.  Simmons needs to be a PG first and learn to pass and penetrate.  He gets in spurts where he wants to launch jumpers, he is decent at that when he is playing the 2 but not at the 1.

I hope the defensive plays that Lauderdale made at the end of the game to save it for us gives him the confidence to play well throughout the rest of the season.

One other comment.  Before the Big Ten league season started, I think it was pretty much unanimous that if the Buckeyes were .500 in league we would be a  lock for the NCAAs.  I don't think that has changed.  We are in position to finish the regular season no worse than .500 in the Big Ten, so I would say mission accomplished.

[ScarletBlooded]

Your right Auto, I guess I am worrying a bit too much. I've seen teams that sunk under the pressure of conference play even after having such success outside of conference play. I don't want the Bucks to become another statistic.

They still have to show their effort and hide any vulnerability that the opponent can take advantage of. It's not just enough to make it into the tournament, it's also about getting as far as you can too. We can do better than to settle for a mediocre season.