#3 Ohio State vs. #14 Howard Prediction, Odds, & How to Watch: March Madness® 2026
#3 Ohio State meets #14 Howard at the Schottenstein Center for a March Madness® contest. Here are details, our prediction, and how to watch with Sling TV.
The Buckeyes enter March Madness® as a No. 3 seed, boasting one of the nation’s most explosive offenses led by star guard Jaloni Cambridge. After navigating a grueling Big Ten schedule and a deep run in the conference tournament, Ohio State looks to leverage their home-court advantage in Columbus. They face a Howard squad that arrives on a 14-game winning streak after capturing the MEAC regular season and tournament titles. While the Buckeyes are heavy favorites, the Bison possess a top-tier defensive resilience and a high-volume free-throw rate that could test Ohio State’s discipline.
To watch the Buckeyes vs. Bison First Round game with Sling, use the link below for a 1 Day Pass subscription to ESPN2 or a monthly subscription to Sling Orange.
Game Information Table
Ohio State Buckeyes Analysis
- Season Overview: Ohio State (26-7) finished 4th in a loaded Big Ten and entered the tournament ranked 11th in the AP Poll. The Buckeyes are an offensive juggernaut, ranking 13th nationally in scoring (81.7 PPG) and 11th in field goals made. Despite losing star forward Cotie McMahon to the transfer portal in the offseason, the Buckeyes have reloaded with elite guard play and efficient interior scoring.
- Star Player: Jaloni Cambridge (G). The sophomore sensation has been one of the most electric players in the country, averaging 22.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists. Her ability to navigate defenses and score at all three levels makes her the engine of the Ohio State attack.
- The X-Factor: Full-Court Pressure. Kevin McGuff’s squad ranks 16th nationally in steals (11.7 per game) and consistently forces opponents into high-turnover games. If the Buckeyes can turn Howard’s backcourt over early, they can trigger their transition game and put this out of reach by halftime.
Howard Bison Analysis
- Season Overview: The Bison (26-7) are the undisputed queens of the MEAC, entering March on a dominant 14-game win streak. Howard relies on a grit-and-grind identity; while they struggle with shooting efficiency (26th percentile nationally), they excel at drawing fouls and getting to the charity stripe.
- Star Player: Zennia Thomas (F). The junior forward is a double-double threat who leads Howard with 15.2 points and 8.0 rebounds per game. Her physical presence in the paint will be the primary obstacle for Ohio State’s interior scorers.
- The Upset Formula: Shot Volume and Free Throws. Howard projects to earn extra possessions through their offensive rebounding and defensive pressure. To keep it close, they must limit Ohio State's possessions while converting at a high rate from the free-throw line to slow the game’s tempo down.
Key Matchup & Advanced Analytics
- Position Battle: The Guard vs. The Press. Howard’s backcourt, led by Zoe Stewart, will face the relentless 94-foot pressure of Ohio State’s Jaloni and Kennedy Cambridge. How Howard handles the initial wave of the Buckeyes’ press will determine if they can settle into their half-court sets.
- Statistical Edge: Ohio State holds a massive advantage in Strength of Schedule (11th vs. 275th) and offensive rating. However, Howard is efficient at shot suppression and ranks in the 90th percentile in drawing fouls, which could disrupt the Buckeyes' rhythm if they fall into foul trouble.
- Betting Trends: Ohio State is a massive 40.5-point favorite. While the Buckeyes are a dominant home team, Howard has covered the spread in four of their last five games as a postseason underdog, making the large spread an interesting point for bettors.
Final Prediction & Betting Pick
- The Verdict: Ohio State Buckeyes
- Final Score Prediction: Ohio State 92, Howard 54
- Best Bet: Howard +40.5
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is the favorite in the game between Buckeyes and Bison? Ohio State is a heavy 40.5-point favorite.
- Where can I stream the 2026 NCAA Tournament? Stream the Women’s Tournament by subscribing to Sling Orange or subscribe to a 1, 3, & 7 Day Pass.
- What time is the game? Tip-off is at 11:30 AM ET on ESPN2.