Buckeyes Triumph in a Thrilling Outdoor Classic Against Michigan at Wrigley Field
In one of the most dramatic clashes of the season, the 13th-ranked Ohio State men’s hockey team delivered a thrilling 4-3 victory over No. 9 Michigan in the iconic outdoor setting of Wrigley Field on Friday night. This showdown, part of the Frozen Confines Series, electrified fans of both teams and added another memorable chapter to one of the fiercest rivalries in college hockey.
A Battle in the Windy City
The historic home of the Chicago Cubs provided a spectacular backdrop for the Big Ten hockey matchup, utilizing the ice rink left from the NHL Winter Classic just days earlier. Despite temperatures plunging into the low 20s—with wind chills making it feel even colder—the energy on the ice was red-hot.
Michigan started strong, jumping to a 2-0 lead early in the second period. Freshman standout Will Horcoff made an immediate impact, assisting on a power-play goal and later scoring his first collegiate goal in just his debut game. The Wolverines seemed to have the upper hand, dominating the first half of the game with their physical play and opportunistic scoring.
Ohio State’s Gritty Comeback
However, the Buckeyes weren’t deterred. Rallying late in the second period, Ohio State clawed their way back with two unanswered goals. Defenseman Noah Powell set up Sam Deckhut for a rocket under the crossbar, followed by Powell’s own slapshot that tied the game at 2-2 heading into the final frame.
The Wolverines regained the lead early in the third period with another power-play goal, but the Buckeyes answered quickly. Riley Thompson, a force on special teams, netted his first power-play goal to even the score at 3-3.
The Final Push
With just over a minute left, Michigan was penalized, giving Ohio State one last chance on the power play. Thompson rose to the occasion again, redirecting a shot into the net with 38 seconds remaining to secure the victory. The win improved Ohio State’s record to 14-4-1 and set the stage for a heated rematch at Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor on Sunday.
Looking Ahead
Wrigley Field isn’t done hosting Buckeye hockey just yet. On Saturday, the defending national champion Ohio State women’s team will face Wisconsin in another outdoor spectacle. This highly anticipated game continues the Buckeyes’ thrilling weekend in Chicago and could further solidify their dominance in collegiate hockey.
Meanwhile, Michigan, donning retro-inspired uniforms for the occasion, will look to bounce back on Sunday after their second straight outdoor loss to Ohio State.
The Frozen Confines Series lived up to its billing, showcasing the grit, talent, and drama that define college hockey’s fiercest rivalry. With Thompson’s heroics and a never-say-die attitude, the Buckeyes showed why they are a team to watch as the season heats up.
