Northwestern Wildcats at Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Preview

The Big Ten Championship Game is set for Saturday, and it will be the Ohio State Buckeyes taking on the Northwestern Wildcats. Northwestern comes into this game with a 6-1 record, while Ohio State is a perfect 5-0 on the season.

The Buckeyes have had several games canceled this season, but they were crowned champions of the East Division. A win in this game could put Ohio State in the College Football Playoff as it is currently the number four team in the rankings.

Northwestern came out of nowhere to win the West Division this season, with the lone loss coming to the Michigan State Spartans. The Wildcats have had a great run, but they are massive underdogs in this one.

The Buckeyes are 20-point favorites in the Big Ten Championship Game. 

Wildcats Can Really Defend

The Wildcats are allowing just 14.6 points per game this season, and that unit will need to carry the load in this game. Ohio State will be the toughest challenge of the season, but Northwestern has plenty of talent on that side of the ball. 

Offense has been a problem at times for the Wildcats as they are averaging just over 25 points per game. Northwestern wants to run the football, and it will use that strategy in this game. The Wildcats have to find a way to give their defense a chance in this one. 

Look for Northwestern to open up its playbook on Saturday as well and take some chances with trick plays. The Wildcats don’t have a ton of explosive playmakers, but they have found a way to win six games this season. 

Buckeyes Feature Explosive Offense

Ohio State has not had any trouble scoring points this season, averaging more than 46 points per contest. The Buckeyes have a number of future NFL players on their roster, including their superstar quarterback. 

Justin Fields has thrown for 1,407 yards and 15 touchdowns in just five games, and he won’t be afraid to throw the ball deep. Running back Master Teague is also a weapon on offense as he leads the team with 426 rushing yards.

The Buckeyes are holding opponents to just 23 points per game, and their secondary is terrific. Ohio State doesn’t mind giving up some points because the offense can get them back in a hurry. 

Northwestern Keeps It Close

Ohio State could show some rust early in this game, and that will allow Northwestern to keep this one tight. There is no doubt that the Buckeyes have more talent on their roster, but Northwestern just continues to find ways to win games.

The problem for Northwestern is that it just can’t score, and the Buckeyes will eventually pull away and take control. Ohio State will win the Big Ten Championship Game, but this game will be tighter than you might expect.

Take the points and look for Northwestern to cover the 20-point spread in the Big Ten Championship Game.

For more Dunkel Index picks for college football, check out our NCAA football picks page.