Ohio State will be missing some young depth when it takes on Penn State Saturday.
Freshman guard Scotty Middleton, Ohio State's top wing off the bench, has been suspended for the contest due to a violation of team rules.
“That happens sometimes in situations with teams whether it’s injuries or suspensions or whatever,” Chris Holtmann said on his pregame radio appearance. “Scotty’s a good kid. For us, it’s about the next man being ready to step up in anybody’s absence.”
Middleton has appeared in 16 of the Buckeyes' previous 17 games this year, only missing the Central Michigan game due to injury. He's the only Ohio State freshman to play at least eight minutes per game, seeing the floor for 16.9 minutes per contest.
On the year, Middleton has scored 4.7 points per game and shot 40% from three-point range. He's added five blocks, four steals and 15 assists total on the season.
In his stead, guard Dale Bonner figures to see additional action rotating through Ohio State's backcourt. With the strength of Penn State being its backcourt, a three-guard lineup could also be an option to relieve Evan Mahaffey at the small forward position. Freshman forward Devin Royal is likely the team's next wing option.
Ohio State and Penn State tip off at noon on Big Ten Network.
