You can just feel it happening. The Ohio State basketball team plays well in stretches, but once the end of the game comes around, the Buckeyes smoke and sputter and seem to lose their way.

The Buckeyes had the lead against Northwestern several times at home on Thursday night, and even under seven minutes to play, but then got disjointed on both ends of the floor and allowed the Wildcats to go on a mini-run late to put OSU in too big of a hole to climb out of. When the clock struck zeros, Ohio State was again on the wrong side of the scoreboard, losing 69-63 to drop its fifth in a row and 10 out of 11 games.

Yes, another close loss to add to the growing list. Another game in which the Buckeyes missed a ton of opportunities down the stretch.

It seems like it’s something different that spells doom for Ohio State every game. This time it wasn’t turnovers or poor overall shooting, but instead troubles from beyond the arc. OSU hit just 1-of-14 (7.1%) from 3-point range, while Northwestern made 12-of-29 (41.4%)

Final score tonight
OSU 63
NW 69 pic.twitter.com/b6xTpDyTOS

— Ohio State Hoops (@OhioStateHoops) February 10, 2023

Justice Sueing showed up big for the Buckeyes this time around. He lead OSU with 19 points on 7-of-11 shooting and pulled down seven rebounds. Unfortunately, the usually sensational Brice Sensabaugh struggled, making just 1-of-8 field goals for just four points.

With yet another loss, Ohio State drops to 11-13 overall and just 3-10 in Big Ten play. The Buckeyes will try to end the losing streak against Michigan State at home on Sunday.

You’d be well-advised not to hold your breath.

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