UCLA Bruins vs Ohio State Buckeyes Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 01/17/26

UCLA will make their way to Columbus, Ohio, to take on Ohio State in a matchup that could feature key absences on both sides. Skyy Clark is a game-time decision for the Bruins, and his potential absence would be significant as he’s averaging 13.5 points per game. Ohio State may also be without Christoph Tilly, who averages 12.4 points per game. If both players are unable to suit up, this game could come down to which team has more reliable depth off the bench. 

Even without Clark, UCLA still has four players averaging double figures this season, while Ohio State would have three without Tilly. Defensively, these two teams are fairly similar, with UCLA allowing 68.5 points per game compared to Ohio State’s 71.9. With plenty still up in the air heading into tip-off, I still like the Buckeyes in this spot at home. Ohio State is 7-2 on their home court this season, while UCLA is just 2-2 on the road. The Buckeyes are also shooting an impressive 49.8% from the field, led by Bruce Thornton, who is averaging 20.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game while shooting 56.1% from the floor. Thornton is coming off a strong performance against Washington, and even though they lost on the road, I expect him to help carry Ohio State in this matchup, even if Tilly is sidelined. 

UCLA vs Ohio State prediction: Ohio State -4.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.