Ohio State Eager to Be 'More Urgent' vs. Maryland

Buckeyes look to bounce back from defensive lapses against struggling Terrapins

Feb. 5, 2026 at 1:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Ohio State, currently projected as a No. 11 seed in the NCAA Tournament, faces a struggling Maryland team on Thursday night in College Park. The Buckeyes are coming off a loss to Wisconsin in which their defensive communication and rotations were issues, and they are looking to be more urgent on that end of the floor against the Terrapins, who have lost seven of their last eight games.

Why it matters

While a win over Maryland wouldn't greatly boost Ohio State's postseason chances, a loss could be damaging to their NCAA Tournament hopes. The Buckeyes are currently on the bubble and need to take care of business against lower-ranked opponents like the Terrapins.

The details

Ohio State forward Amare Bynum said the team needs to be more vocal on the court and improve its zone defense rotations after the loss to Wisconsin. Freshman guard Taison Chatman has provided a boost off the bench for the Buckeyes, scoring a career-high 14 points against Wisconsin. Maryland has been without leading scorer Pharrel Payne, who has missed the last 10 games due to a leg injury. Guard Darius Adams said the team remains focused on getting better despite the frustration of the losing streak.

  • Ohio State plays Maryland on Thursday, February 5, 2026 in College Park, Maryland.

The players

Amare Bynum

Ohio State forward who said the team needs to be more urgent on defense.

Taison Chatman

Ohio State freshman guard who has provided a scoring boost off the bench.

Pharrel Payne

Maryland's leading scorer who has missed the last 10 games due to a leg injury.

Darius Adams

Maryland guard who said the team remains focused on improving despite the frustrating losing streak.

Buzz Williams

Maryland's head coach who said the team's resilience and resolve have been 'ultra-pleased' despite the poor results.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We weren't connected on our communication and then our rotations; we've got to be more urgent.”

— Amare Bynum, Ohio State forward

“Their resilience and their resolve, I have been ultra-pleased with and stand at attention and respect towards how they've handled it.”

— Buzz Williams, Maryland head coach

“We're focused on us getting better every single day, and that's going to make the outcome different.”

— Darius Adams, Maryland guard

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.