- Game 1: Saturday 10/31, 6:00 pm ET, streaming on Big Ten Plus
- Game 2: Sunday 11/01, 7:30 pm ET, Live on Big Ten Network
- Record vs. Ohio State: 104-53-16
Michigan travels south of the border to Columbus this weekend for a two-game series against Ohio State. The Wolverines have won the last six matchups between these two teams. Michigan is coming off three straight wins against top-five-ranked opponents and are a perfect 7-0. The Buckeyes are 2-4, having split their series against RPI and Sacred Heart, and getting swept by Augustana.
Michigan is going into this matchup as the heavy favorite. The Wolverines lead the nation, and more than double the Buckeyes, in goals with 39. Michigan’s top two scorers, Perron and McKinney, have one less goal than the entire Ohio State team. They are also keeping the puck out of the their own net at a better rate, against better opponents too. The Buckeyes have a better power-play percentage, but I think it’s still too early in the season to take much stock in special teams percentages.
Favoritism and loyalty aside, Michigan should be able to go into Columbus and get two wins. The rivalry isn’t nearly what it is in football, but there’s still some spill over hate there. For that reason, I do expect Ohio State to go all out, and give them a small chance to spoil Michigan’s perfect record. However, Michigan will be playing with the same intensity. I expect a sweep for the maize and blue.
Players to Watch
- Perron has scored in every game this season. Look for him to continue that steak this weekend.
- Schock is having himself a great start to the season. He leads the team in +/-, and is the points leader among defenseman on the team.
- I expect Ivankovic to start both games this weekend, and backstop Michigan to victory.