Ohio State Vs Michigan Hockey Game
Ohio State and Michigan are known for their intense rivalry, which extends beyond just football. The two universities compete in many sports, including ice hockey. The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Michigan Wolverines have faced off on the ice many times over the years, each team vying for dominance. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of the Ohio State vs Michigan hockey game, as well as some of the most memorable matchups between these two fierce competitors.
The History of the Ohio State vs Michigan Hockey Rivalry
The rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan is deep-rooted, dating back to the early 1900s when the two universities first faced off against each other on the football field. However, the hockey rivalry between these two powerhouses didn't begin until the 1964-65 season, almost 60 years later. Since then, the Buckeyes and Wolverines have played each other over 100 times, with the Wolverines holding a slight edge in the overall series.
One of the most notable moments in the rivalry's history occurred in the 2009-10 season, when Ohio State eliminated Michigan from the playoffs with a 3-2 victory. This win marked the first time in school history that the Buckeyes had eliminated the Wolverines, and it was a significant moment for Ohio State fans everywhere.
Memorable Ohio State vs Michigan Hockey Matchups
Over the years, the Ohio State vs Michigan hockey game has produced some truly memorable matchups. One of the most exciting of these took place on February 11, 2012, when Ohio State and Michigan played a game that lasted over four hours. After two overtime periods, the game was finally decided in a shootout, with Michigan emerging victorious in a 3-2 victory.
Another memorable matchup occurred on February 4, 2018, when Ohio State stunned the Wolverines with a 5-1 victory. This win was significant for the Buckeyes, as it marked their first win over Michigan since 2012. Ohio State went on to win the Big Ten Championship that year, further solidifying their position as a top contender in the conference.
The Importance of the Ohio State vs Michigan Hockey Game
The Ohio State vs Michigan hockey game is not just another matchup on the schedule - it's a rivalry that extends far beyond the ice. Students, fans, and alumni from both universities take this game seriously, and it's considered one of the most important games of the season. Players on both teams know that they're representing more than just themselves - they're representing their schools and their fans.
In addition to the bragging rights that come with a victory over a bitter rival, the Ohio State vs Michigan hockey game often has significant implications for the Big Ten standings. Both the Buckeyes and Wolverines are historically strong programs, and a win over either team can provide a significant boost to a team's chances of making it to the NCAA tournament.
Conclusion
The Ohio State vs Michigan hockey game is a rivalry that has stood the test of time. With over 100 matchups played between these two universities, it's clear that this is a rivalry that will continue to captivate fans for years to come. Whether you're a Buckeyes fan or a Wolverines fan, there's no denying that this is one of the most important matchups on the college hockey calendar. So the next time these two teams face off, be sure to tune in - you won't want to miss it!
