Preview: The 18th-ranked Gophers hope to knock off a No. 1 team for the first time in more than 20 years and break a two-game losing streak in the process when they play host to Ohio State (23-0, 10-0 Big Ten) on Sunday. The Gophers (16-6, 5-5) have some confidence because they stormed back in the second half of a 67-64 loss at Ohio State Jan. 9. But they had Al Nolen that game, and they've lost their past two games without him. The Buckeyes keep truckin'. They have won their first 23 games of the season, and as National Player of the Year contender Jared Sullinger continues to improve, the Buckeyes continue to separate themselves from the rest of the Big Ten.
The Gophers will win because ... They are the only team in the Big Ten with the size and skill inside to neutralize Sullinger. Trevor Mbakwe had 16 points and 12 rebounds the last time he faced Sullinger. Plus, Austin Hollins scored 13 points in Wednesday's 60-57 loss at Indiana. He's the kind of playmaker who can take pressure off Blake Hoffarber, who's at point guard now.
The Gophers will lose because ... They are playing the best team in America.
