Ohio State took game one of their two-game series this weekend against Wisconsin.
In a thrilling display of collegiate ice hockey, the Ohio State Buckeyes dominated the Wisconsin Badgers with a decisive 4-1 victory on February 14, 2025, at the Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio. This win not only showcased the Buckeyes’ offensive prowess but also highlighted their defensive resilience, solidifying their position in the Big Ten Conference standings.
Game Overview
The matchup began with the Badgers seizing an early advantage. Forward Jack Horbach netted the opening goal with just under three minutes remaining in the first period, marking his milestone 100th career game with a memorable performance. Despite this early setback, the Buckeyes remained undeterred, displaying composure and strategic adjustments as the game progressed.
The second period witnessed a momentum shift in favor of Ohio State. Midway through the period, the Buckeyes were granted a five-minute power play opportunity. Although the Badgers successfully killed the penalty, the sustained offensive pressure from Ohio State culminated in a game-tying goal at 15:36, courtesy of forward Riley Thompson. Thompson’s persistence paid off again as he added a second goal with just 31 seconds left in the period, granting the Buckeyes a 2-1 lead heading into the final intermission.
Building on their momentum, Ohio State extended their lead early in the third period. A mere 1:40 into the frame, the Buckeyes found the back of the net once more, further demoralizing the Badgers’ defense. As the clock wound down, Wisconsin opted for an empty net in a desperate bid to close the gap, but Ohio State capitalized, sealing the game with an empty-net goal in the final nine seconds, bringing the final score to 4-1.
Key Performances
Riley Thompson emerged as the standout player of the evening, recording two pivotal goals that shifted the game’s momentum. His offensive contributions were complemented by the stellar performance of goaltender Logan Terness, who amassed an impressive 37 saves, thwarting numerous attempts by the Badgers to regain their footing. Terness’s composure between the pipes was instrumental in maintaining the Buckeyes’ lead and ensuring their victory.
On the opposing side, Jack Horbach’s early goal showcased his offensive acumen and underscored his significance to the Badgers’ lineup. Despite the loss, his milestone game remains a personal achievement worth noting.
Implications and Looking Ahead
This victory bolstered Ohio State’s season record to 19-8-2, with a commendable 12-6-1 standing in Big Ten Conference play. The win not only enhances their position within the conference but also serves as a confidence booster as they approach the postseason. The Buckeyes’ ability to rebound from an early deficit and control the game’s tempo bodes well for their future matchups.
Conversely, the Badgers, now holding an 11-17-3 record (6-14-1 in the Big Ten), face challenges as they aim to regroup and finish the season on a positive note. The loss highlights areas requiring attention, particularly in sustaining early leads and defensive consistency.
The two teams are slated to face off again on February 15, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., providing the Badgers an opportunity to avenge their loss and the Buckeyes a chance to secure a series sweep. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how both teams adjust their strategies in this follow-up encounter.
In summary, the Ohio State Buckeyes’ 4-1 triumph over the Wisconsin Badgers exemplified their offensive depth, defensive solidity, and overall team cohesion. As the season progresses, performances like these will be pivotal in determining their success in the highly competitive landscape of collegiate ice hockey.
For a visual recap of the game’s highlights, you can watch the following video:
