Ohio State-Purdue score update: OSU leads early, 31-25

Ohio State wasn't at their best, but they didn't have to be. After starting out hot from two, the Buckeyes controlled the flow of the game for the majority of the first half en route to an early first half lead.

The Buckeyes had all the momentum to have a double digit lead, but as has become the calling card for OSU against lesser foes, they missed open jumpers, free throws, and seemed to get lackadaisical on the defense end when they would've benefited from being more dialed in. Not unlike the last time these two teams met, A.J. Hammons had his way offensively, scoring 7 points and 6 rebounds in the first half while Amir Williams and Trey McDonald both struggled with fouls. LaQuinton Ross, as per usual of late, was the leading scorer for the Buckeyes.

If OSU continues to come into their own, a third straight win isn't out of the question. Aaron Craft, while failing to make much of a difference in the box score, was busy getting deflections in the passing lanes and actually looked the part that many around the country criticize him for in games in which he may not have double digit points, assists, or near half a dozen steals.

KEY STATS:

– LaQuinton Ross & Sam Thompson, 8 points a piece

– Amir Williams: 4 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 blocks

– Purdue: 16 bench points, nine second-chance points