Ohio 88, Marietta 54

Published Dec. 14, 2011 10:40 p.m. ET

foxsports

D.J. Cooper scored 15 points to lead five Ohio players in double figures as the Bobcats routed Marietta College 88-54 on Wednesday night.

Ohio (8-1) is off to its best start since 1954-55, eclipsing the 1969-70 NCAA Tournament team that began its campaign 7-1.

The Bobcats never trailed, shooting 53 percent from the field (35 of 66) compared to 26.5 percent (18 of 68) for the Division III Pioneers (6-2).

Ohio also had a 49-35 rebounding advantage in the first meeting between the teams since 1985.

Reggie Keely added 13 points for the Bobcats, Nick Kellogg had 12 and Stevie Taylor and Walter Offutt scored 11 apiece.

Marietta All-American forward Trevor Halter, who has returned to action after back surgery, was 4 of 4 from the free throw line, but 0 for 7 from the field.

Jason Humphrey scored 11 to lead the Pioneers and Kevin Knab had 10.