Get ready to mark your calendars because the NHL is about to gift us with an epic showdown that’s going to stir up some serious Midwest rivalry vibes.
The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to host the Detroit Red Wings in what promises to be a memorable face-off in the 2025 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series. And guess what? It’s happening at none other than Ohio Stadium on March 1, 2025.
That’s right, the iconic Horseshoe is swapping out footballs for pucks, and we’re here for it!
Ohio Stadium, with its rich history and jaw-dropping capacity of 102,780, is no stranger to fierce competitions. But this time, the clash on the ice is going to add a whole new layer of excitement to the storied Ohio State-Michigan rivalry.
For those keeping score, this rivalry kicked off way back in 1897 and is one of the most talked-about in college sports. Now, it’s the NHL’s turn to get in on this action, and honestly, could there be a better venue?
For the Columbus Blue Jackets, this is a milestone moment as they skate into their first NHL outdoor game.
The Detroit Red Wings, on the other hand, are old hands at this, having played in four outdoor games already, boasting a record of 2-0-2. Their last outdoor appearance was a chilly encounter at the NHL Centennial Classic in Toronto back in 2017.
Both teams have a sprinkle of that Michigan magic in their line-ups, with the Red Wings boasting three University of Michigan alumni, and the Blue Jackets not far behind with their own trio of former Wolverines. It’s like a mini-reunion, but with higher stakes and a lot more ice.
Did we mention that the Red Wings were part of the most-attended game in NHL history?
Yep, back in 2014, they faced off against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL Winter Classic at Michigan Stadium, with an eye-watering 105,491 fans in attendance.
Ohio Stadium, with its record crowd of 110,045 for an Ohio State-Michigan football game, is no slouch either when it comes to packing in the fans. So, expect this game to be a record-breaker, or at the very least, an unforgettable spectacle.
As for the game itself, it’s shaping up to be a clash of titans with both teams boasting impressive rosters.
The Blue Jackets are led by the likes of Johnny Gaudreau, Adam Fantilli, and Captain Boone Jenner, while the Red Wings counter with firepower from Alex DeBrincat, Lucas Raymond, and Captain Dylan Larkin, among others. This game isn’t just about state pride; it’s a showcase of some of the top talents in the league today.
So, whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or just love a good rivalry game, this matchup is not to be missed. Details on tickets and broadcast info are still to come, but one thing’s for sure, the 2025 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series at Ohio Stadium is going to be one for the books. Start the countdown, folks – this is going to be epic!
Featured image: Ohio Stadium. Photo by Lectrician2, licensed under CC-by-4.0.
