By Brian Bennett (ESPN.com) — COLUMBUS, Ohio — Quick analysis from Value City Arena, where No. 3 Ohio State defeated No. 8 Florida 81-74 on Tuesday night.

How the game was won: Florida hurt Ohio State early with guard penetration, pick-and-rolls and six first-half three-pointers. But the Buckeyes tightened up their perimeter defense late in the first half, and the Gators struggled to figure out other options. Jared Sullinger (16 points) took over inside, and William Buford handled the bulk of the scoring as the Buckeyes led by as many as 15 points in the second half and held off a late rally for their second victory in as many years over Florida.

Star of the game: Buford. He led all scorers with 21 points and added six rebounds and three assists while playing all 40 minutes. Freshman Bradley Beal burned Buford a few times in the first half, but the Ohio State senior picked up his defense as the game wore on.

Star of the game II: Aaron Craft had his usual stat-stuffing game…..

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