The ninth-ranked University of Michigan Wolverines emerged victorious against their rivals, the 13th-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes, with a thrilling 3-2 overtime win. This intense matchup followed a previous encounter at Wrigley Field in Chicago, adding another chapter to their storied rivalry. The Wolverines showcased resilience, overcoming a two-goal deficit for the first time since March, much to the delight of the home crowd at Yost Ice Arena. This victory was sealed just 20 seconds into overtime.
Alternate captain T.J. Hughes had a remarkable night, notching his 100th career point, a milestone celebrated by joining the program’s Century Club. He didn’t stop there, adding his 101st and 102nd points with two more assists, culminating in a three-point performance.
Overtime Heroics: Hallum Seals the Deal
The overtime period began with Ohio State winning the faceoff. However, the Wolverines quickly seized control, turning the tide with a swift counterattack. Hughes initiated the play, passing to Ethan Edwards who drove towards the net, drawing the goaltender’s attention. Edwards then executed a perfect pass to Jackson Hallum, who was streaking in on the right side. Hallum seized the opportunity, burying the puck into the center of the net, triggering a frenzied celebration at Yost Ice Arena.
Stein’s Stellar Performance in Net
Veteran goaltender Logan Stein proved to be a crucial asset for the Wolverines, providing a solid defensive foundation. Stein showcased his skills, stopping 30 of 32 shots fired by the persistent Buckeye offense, including several impressive saves.
First Period: Buckeyes Take an Early Lead
Ohio State gained an early advantage when William Whitelaw was taken down, granting Michigan a power play opportunity. Despite sustained pressure in the offensive zone, the Wolverines couldn’t convert. Soon after, an Ohio State power play resulted in the game’s first goal at 7:29, putting the Buckeyes ahead 1-0.
The Buckeyes extended their lead further following a turnover, capitalizing on a chance in transition. The puck was sent back into the slot, where an Ohio State player flipped it into the top of the net, making the score 2-0.
Second Period: Werner Sparks Michigan’s Comeback
Michigan came out strong in the second period, determined to narrow the gap. Their second power play of the night, earned when Evan Werner was dumped in the corner, proved fruitful. Werner capitalized on the opportunity, unleashing a powerful one-timed shot from the left flank at 8:46, halving the deficit and making the score 2-1. Michael Hage and Hughes assisted on the goal, marking Hughes’s entry into the Century Club.
Third Period: Whitelaw Ties the Game
The Wolverines continued their momentum into the third period, culminating in a game-tying goal by Whitelaw. After sustained pressure in the offensive zone, Michigan won a faceoff to the left of the Ohio State goaltender. Hughes secured the draw, and Whitelaw swiftly moved towards the net, firing a shot on the near side to tie the game at 3:15.
Conclusion
The Michigan Wolverines displayed remarkable resilience and determination in their 3-2 overtime victory against the Ohio State Buckeyes. Logan Stein’s solid goaltending, coupled with key goals from Evan Werner, William Whitelaw and the game-winner from Jackson Hallum, contributed to the win. T.J. Hughes’s milestone achievement of joining the Century Club added another layer of excitement to this classic rivalry game. The Wolverines will look to carry this momentum into their upcoming games against Notre Dame.
