Even with all of the great teams that Ohio State has had over the past several years, the record was ugly to look at: 1-5. That was the record that the Buckeyes had in the Big Ten-ACC Challenge heading into a showdown with #22 Miami in Florida. Things didn’t look exactly great for the Bucks to improve on that nasty statistic.

And then, with one slap, things changed.

Miami’s do everything player, Jack McClinton was being guarded by Anthony Crater, who had attempted to steal the ball but had swiped at McClinton’s face. Almost instantly McClinton smacked Crater directly in the face in what looked like retaliation for an intentional foul by Crater. However, the officials conferred, and McClinton was flagged for a flagrant foul and kicked out of the game. While the Hurricanes still maintained composure for a bit and even took a 38-24 lead at one point, being without their all star proved costly down the stretch as the Buckeyes pulled out the big victory 73-68.

Sophomore Jon Diebler scored a career-high 20 points along with 6 boards and 4 assists, and Evan Turner had 19 for the Buckeye, who improved to 4-0. Diebler hit 6 threes in the game and Ohio State may have just found the long bomber they need.

Frosh sensation B.J. Mullens had 5 points and 9 rebounds in 18 minutes of action. He still looks a little unsure of himself on offense and only hit 1 of 4 free throws. The Buckeyes also only turned the ball over 10 times to Miami’s 18, certainly a stat that is worth noting in this close of a game overall.