Ohio will take a break from its gauntlet of a Mid-American Conference schedule Saturday when it faces the Sun Belt’s Appalachian State. The game serves as the second edition of the MAC vs. Sun Belt Challenge, an annual set of games between teams of the two conferences.
The Bobcats will likely use the game to work on its identity prior to the final eight MAC games of the season. Ohio may also use the game to try some new rotations on both offense and defense, as the matchup has much lower stakes.
Nonetheless, Ohio will be looking to bring its conference glory in the annual event. Here is everything you need to know before Ohio takes on Appalachian State.
Game Information
Opponent: Appalachian State
Location: The Convo
Time: Saturday at 2 p.m.
Where to watch: ESPN+
Follow live stats here
Meet the Opponent:
Head coach: Dustin Kerns (sixth season)
Projected Starters:
#2 Alonzo Dodd
#4 Dior Conners
#12 Myles Tate
#7 Jalil Beaubrun
#15 CJ Huntley
Statistical leaders:
Points: Tate (16 per game)
Assists: Tate (5.7 per game)
Rebounds: Huntley (7.5 per game)
FG%: Beaubrun (54%)
3-point percentage: Conners (42%)
Appalachian State player to watch: Myles Tate
A player that Ohio tried to recruit out of the portal this past off-season, Tate has been a key contributor for the Mountaineers this season. In his most recent game against Southern Mississippi, Tate recorded a near triple-double with 8 points, seven rebounds and 11 assists.
In Appalachian State’s season opener against Miami (OH), Tate recorded an impressive 21 points. For the season, Tate is averaging 16 points a game.
Ohio player to watch: AJ Clayton
Ohio’s most tenured player, AJ Clayton, recently made his return to the starting lineup after missing a slew of games with an injury. In his first game back against Western Michigan, Clayton scored a team-leading 18 points and looked to perform at a high level despite being on a minutes restriction. If Clayton can return to form, Ohio will be a solid competitor for the remainder of the season.
