Gophers at a glance: After a seemingly uplifted victory over Wisconsin last week, the Gophers quickly lost any semblance of momentum, squandering a 21-5 lead to eventually lose by 21 at unranked Iowa. The Gophers have struggled mightily against the zone, with Sunday's game in Iowa City as a prime example. The Gophers sorely missed leadership in that game, getting only three points on 1-for-8 shooting from point guard Andre Hollins and limited production from Trevor Mbakwe after halftime. Rodney Williams played only 10 minutes and didn't attempt a shot. Williams (shoulder) might not be available to play Wednesday.

Ohio State at a glance: The Buckeyes are no less desperate for a victory. After losing three of its past four, Ohio State -- which hasn't finished the season without at least a share of the Big Ten title since 2008-09 -- is in critical need of a victory to jump-start a crew that faces Michigan State and Indiana immediately afterward. Deshaun Thomas (20.1 points and 6.2 rebounds) has been great, but everyone else has been inconsistent. Everyone else in the starting five has averaged fewer than 10 points in the past four games. The Buckeyes have played solid defense all season, but if they have breakdowns on that side, things can fall apart.

AMELIA RAYNO