2012 Carrier Classic preview, Ohio State vs. Marquette: Weather could be a problem

The No. 4 Ohio State men's basketball team will kick off its season Friday night against Marquette at the Carrier Classic off the coast of Charleston, S.C.

The Buckeyes and Golden Eagles face off in the second part of a basketball doubleheader on the USS Yorktown. Before the Ohio State men's team hits the court, the women's team will play Notre Dame.

The weather could create a problem Friday night. According to CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein, the temperature will be approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit and officials are expecting high winds.

SB Nation's Land Grant Holy Land expects the weather to be a factor:

This could make things a little interesting for the squads coming into the game, particularly Ohio State. No longer a "live by the three, die by the three" team like they were a few years ago, the Buckeyes must bring a physical, pound-the-paint, inside game against Marquette if they want the easiest road to victory.

The court is set up on the end of the USS Yorktown. The court features a large net that will catch any bad passes or errant shots.

"That one end is intimidating. I didn't know it would be so close to the edge of the ship," Ohio State coach Thad Matta told reporters. "After watching us pass the ball in practice, I hope they'll have some extra ones."

Ohio State was a Final Four team last year, going 31-8 overall.

Marquette is coming off a 27-8 overall record from last season. The Golden Eagles lost in the Round of 16.

The stands on the USS Yorktown will hold about 4,000 people. Half of that should be service men and women.