Penn State Hockey Faces Rival Ohio State in Series Opener: Key Insights
Penn State hockey remains a contender for the NCAA Tournament as the 2025-26 season approaches its conclusion. However, a season that began with high hopes has faced recent challenges. The Nittany Lions lost their captain, Dane Dowiak, to a season-ending injury during last weekend’s confrontation with Michigan. Dowiak was instrumental in the team’s dynamics, centering the top line alongside Gavin McKenna and Aiden Fink.
In Dowiak’s absence, Luke Misa has stepped up to fill the role. Besides Dowiak, the team is also coping with injuries to key players such as Charlie Cerrato, Keaton Peters, and Breadon Ford. This situation has compelled coach Guy Gadowsky to make significant adjustments to the lineup, with defensemen Casey Aman and Nick Fascia even taking on forward positions in the series against Michigan. They may be called upon to continue this strategy as they prepare to face Ohio State.
Penn State vs. Ohio State: Series Overview
The No. 6 Penn State Nittany Lions will look to regain their footing after losing three out of their last four games against formidable Big Ten adversaries, including the top-ranked Michigan State and Michigan. The latest match with Michigan ended in a tie, with the Wolverines securing an additional point in the Big Ten standings through a shootout victory. Despite their struggles, Gadowsky’s squad has maintained competitiveness, albeit with a cumulative score of 21-14 against in recent games.
Upcoming Matches
This weekend presents an opportunity for the Lions to bounce back against their struggling rivals, Ohio State. The team has one more series against Notre Dame and another against Wisconsin to close out the season. Penn State’s last victory came on January 24 against Wisconsin.
Game Details
- Teams: No. 6 Penn State Nittany Lions (18-9-1, 10-7-1) vs. Ohio State Buckeyes (11-16-1, 7-11-0)
- All-Time Series Record: Ohio State leads 28-25-5; Penn State had a successful sweep against Ohio State in October.
- Game Schedule:
- Friday: 8:30 p.m.
- Saturday: 8:00 p.m.
- Location: Pegula Ice Arena
- Broadcast: Big Ten Network
Player Spotlight
One notable player for Penn State this season is Jackson Smith, a defenseman projected to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets. He has scored 10 goals so far, setting a new single-season record for defensemen in the program.
As the 2025-26 season continues, all eyes will be on Penn State as they strive to overcome their recent hurdles and secure a place in the NCAA Tournament.
