Michigan Vs Michigan State Ice Hockey
No matter where you are from, it's safe to say that you have heard of the rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State. It's a rivalry that is not only limited to football, but also extends to ice hockey. The Michigan Wolverines and the Michigan State Spartans have been going head to head on the ice for years, creating some of the most memorable moments in college hockey history. In this article, we're going to take a closer look at this fierce rivalry and see what makes it so special.
The History of Michigan and Michigan State Ice Hockey
The rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State dates back to the early 20th century. The two teams first played against each other in 1922, and they have been playing each other regularly ever since. Over the years, both teams have enjoyed several periods of dominance, with Michigan State winning the majority of games early on, and Michigan later catching up.
One of the most memorable moments in the history of this rivalry took place in the 1985 NCAA tournament. Michigan State was heavily favored to win, but Michigan pulled off a miraculous upset, winning the game 3-2 in double overtime. The Wolverines went on to win the national championship that year, and the game has become a part of Michigan hockey lore.
The Intensity of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State is one of the most intense in college hockey. The games are always hard-fought, and the players on both sides know that they are representing their respective schools. There is a lot of pride on the line, and both teams are always determined to come out on top.
The intensity of this rivalry is also reflected in the crowds. When Michigan and Michigan State play each other, the arenas are always packed with fans wearing the colors of their respective teams. The energy in the building is electric, and it's not uncommon for tempers to flare up on the ice.
The Players
Over the years, both Michigan and Michigan State have produced some of the best players in college hockey history. The Wolverines have had several players go on to successful NHL careers, including Red Berenson, Marty Turco, and Brendan Morrison. The Spartans have also had their fair share of NHL stars, such as Ryan Miller, Anson Carter, and Duncan Keith.
Whenever these two teams play each other, it's always interesting to see which players will step up and make a difference. More often than not, it's the players who have a deep understanding of the rivalry and what it means to their respective schools.
The Future of the Rivalry
The future of the Michigan-Michigan State hockey rivalry looks bright. Both teams have a strong tradition of excellence, and there's no reason to believe that this will change anytime soon. The rivalry will only continue to grow stronger as the years go by, and fans on both sides will continue to look forward to the next game between these two powerhouses of college hockey.
In conclusion, the rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State is an important part of college hockey history. It's a rivalry that is deeply rooted in tradition, and it's one that fans of both teams will never forget. Whether you're a fan of the Wolverines or the Spartans, one thing is for sure: when these two teams meet on the ice, it's always a game to remember.