Buckeyes Rout Illini

January 7, 2007 6:04 PM

Ohio St. Buckeyes vs Illinois Fighting Illini

Illinois suffered its worse home loss in over 30 seasons Saturday afternoon against #6 Ohio St: 62-44. The Buckeyes established their big lead on a 28-11 run over the final 10 minutes of the first half to go ahead 36-22 at the break. Illinois was ill-equipped to make even a modest run in the 2nd half. Daequan Cook, Jamar Butler, and Othello Hunter did most of the scoring damage for the Buckeyes. Freshman sensation Mike Conley had 8 assists, 6 rebounds, 5 points, and 2 turnovers. Freshman phenom Greg Oden—still hampered by a wrist injury—finished with 15 rebounds, 7 points (all in the 2nd half), and 4 blocks.

As for the Illini, the season has hit rock bottom. Floor leadership is non-existent. The offense is in shambles. 24.1% FG nearly set an all-time low record for Illinois at the Hall. Illinois has 2 home losses for the first time since the 1999 season, and it's the first 3-game losing streak under coach Bruce Weber. Up next: home against Iowa Wednesday. Recap. Thread.

Photos by Cary Frye courtesy of fryeimages. More photos of the game after the jump!