Ohio State Turns Focus to Rivalry Matchup with Michigan After Maryland Win

Buckeyes prepare for high-stakes home game against No. 2 Wolverines after road victory over Terrapins.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The Ohio State men's basketball team secured an 82-62 road win over Maryland, but the focus has quickly shifted to a highly anticipated home matchup against rival Michigan. Coaches were already scouting the Wolverines during the Maryland game, while the players remained locked in on the task at hand. Now, the Buckeyes are gearing up for a crucial resume-boosting opportunity against the second-ranked Wolverines, who they nearly upset in their previous meeting.

Why it matters

This game against Michigan is a critical chance for Ohio State to pick up a marquee win and bolster its NCAA Tournament resume. The Buckeyes are currently on the bubble, sitting at No. 39 in the NET rankings, and need high-quality victories to solidify their spot in the field. A win over the second-ranked Wolverines would be a major boost for Ohio State's postseason hopes.

The details

Ohio State took care of business against Maryland, earning its first win with fans in the stands at the Xfinity Center. While most of the team was focused on the Terrapins, assistant coaches Luke Simons and Brian Walsh were already scouting Michigan in preparation for the upcoming rivalry matchup. Coach Jake Diebler had previously lobbied the Big Ten for more home weekend games against Michigan, and he got his wish with a midday home game on February 8th.

  • Ohio State defeated Maryland 82-62 on February 5th.
  • The Buckeyes will host Michigan on February 8th.

The players

Jake Diebler

The head coach of the Ohio State men's basketball team who lobbied for more home games against Michigan.

Luke Simons

An assistant coach for the Ohio State men's basketball team who was scouting Michigan during the Maryland game.

Brian Walsh

An assistant coach for the Ohio State men's basketball team who was scouting Michigan during the Maryland game.

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What they’re saying

“In this league, everybody has to get your best preparation and shot on game day or anything can happen. Now, on the way home, we turn the page and turn our full focus to the team up north.”

— Jake Diebler, Head Coach (dispatch.com)

“Super ready. It's a good team up there. We really want to get this one. We're going to be ready. We're going to compete.”

— John Mobley Jr. (dispatch.com)

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 game against Michigan is a crucial opportunity for Ohio State to pick up a marquee win and strengthen its NCAA Tournament resume. The Buckeyes are eager to avenge their earlier loss to the Wolverines and prove they can compete with one of the top teams in the country.