On January 5, 2026, the Ohio State Buckeyes will host the Nebraska Cornhuskers, currently ranked #13. This matchup is set to take place at the Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio, starting at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Fans can watch the game on FS1, with commentary provided by Brandon Gaudin and Steve Smith. For those wanting to listen, the Ohio State Radio Network, featuring Paul Keels and Ron Stokes, will also broadcast the game. Live stats will be available via Sidearm.
Ohio State vs. Nebraska: A Competitive History
The Buckeyes have historically fared well against Nebraska, holding a 22-8 overall record against them. Since the Cornhuskers joined the Big Ten in the 2011-12 season, Ohio State has a 18-6 record. Nevertheless, Nebraska has triumphed in three of the last five encounters. Ohio State enjoys a strong home record against the Huskers, winning 12 out of 14 games played in Columbus, including a thrilling double-overtime victory last season.
Recent Matchup Highlights
- On February 9, 2024, Nebraska secured a 79-71 victory in Lincoln.
- Ohio State responded by winning 116-114 in a two-overtime thriller on March 4, 2024.
In terms of individual performance, Bruce Thornton stands out. Throughout his career, he has averaged 14.0 points per game against Nebraska. In the last meeting, Thornton scored 29 points and made crucial three-pointers in overtime. Currently, he has registered 1,759 career points, placing him eighth on Ohio State’s all-time scoring list. He needs just 26 points to surpass Jim Jackson’s record. The Buckeyes are also 6-0 on Monday nights under head coach Jake Diebler.
Ohio State’s Recent Performance
The Buckeyes enter this game following an impressive comeback victory against Rutgers, winning 80-73. Thornton contributed significantly, achieving his third double-double of the season with a team-high of 20 points and 10 rebounds. Devin Royal added 16 points, while Brandon Noel shot 5-of-6 for 14 points. John Mobley Jr. has also made an impact, hitting three-pointers consistently, with nine made over the past two games.
Nebraska’s Strong Start
Meanwhile, Nebraska is enjoying its best start in program history, boasting a perfect 14-0 record. Their latest victory came from a close 58-56 win against #9 Michigan State. The Cornhuskers rank in the Top 10 nationally for field goal percentage defense, presenting a formidable challenge for Ohio State.
Tickets for the game can be purchased through the Ohio State Athletics website or by contacting the ticket office at 1-800-GOBUCKS. As the Buckeyes prepare for this crucial matchup against an in-form Nebraska team, fans are eager to witness another thrilling chapter in this competitive rivalry.
