What the numbers say about Ohio State's NCAA Tournament hopes

Ohio State's season so far has been a roller coaster but the numbers give a clearer picture than the emotions from each game have. Looking at the Buckeyes' record, efficiency and how they have played against some of the best teams gives you a better idea whether they truly belong in the NCAA Tournament. 

A 17-10 record with a winning record in Big Ten conference play shows that Ohio State has been able to beat quality teams more often than not. However, it has done most of its damage at home, with 12 of 17 wins coming in Columbus. 

Ohio State sits at No. 35 in the NCAA's NET Ranking, which is right on the bubble for at-large bids. The ranking is formulated from how teams play on offense and defense, how tough their schedule is and how well they've done away from home. A ranking in the 30s says that the Buckeyes have played like a tournament level team most nights.

Another big piece is the quality of their competition. Ohio State has had plenty of key tests, but its work in those games has been underwhelming. The Buckeyes have played Illinois, North Carolina, Nebraska, Michigan (twice), Wisconsin (twice), Virginia and Michigan State. But they are just 1-8 in those matchups. Their next two games (Iowa, Purdue) provide a final opportunity to get a desperately needed signature win before the regular season comes to a close.

So what do the Buckeyes actually need to do to make the NCAA Tournament? At least one win from the Iowa and Purdue matchups would go a long way, and they need to avoid a slip against Penn State or Indiana to close the regular season. That would get them to 20 wins and a winning record in the Big Ten while having a fresh example of of a strong showing against a quality opponent. That would give them a solid shot of hearing their name called on Selection Sunday.