Michigan Hockey Defeats Michigan State in Dramatic Overtime Showdown

No. 1 Wolverines rally from 3-1 deficit to beat No. 2 Spartans 4-3 in instant classic

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The top-ranked Michigan Wolverines hockey team defeated the second-ranked Michigan State Spartans 4-3 in overtime on Friday night at Yost Ice Arena. After trailing 3-1 in the third period, Michigan scored two unanswered goals to tie the game and force overtime, where Jayden Perron netted the game-winner to secure the victory for the Wolverines.

Why it matters

This was a highly anticipated matchup between the top two teams in the Big Ten, with major implications for the conference regular season title race. Michigan's comeback win against their in-state rival showcases the team's resilience and ability to win close, high-stakes games.

The details

Michigan cut the Spartan lead to 3-2 midway through the third period on a goal by Asher Barnett. The Wolverines then scored a shorthanded goal from Kienan Draper to tie the game at 3-3 and force overtime. In the extra session, Jayden Perron one-timed the game-winning goal 3:10 into overtime to give Michigan the dramatic victory.

  • The game was played on Friday, February 7, 2026 at Yost Ice Arena.
  • Michigan and Michigan State will face off again on Saturday, February 8, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. EST in Detroit.

The players

Michigan Wolverines

The No. 1 ranked college hockey team in the country, leading the Big Ten standings with 38 points.

Michigan State Spartans

The No. 2 ranked team in the nation, sitting in second place in the Big Ten with 36 points.

Asher Barnett

Michigan forward who scored a goal to cut the Spartan lead to 3-2 in the third period.

Kienan Draper

Michigan forward who scored the game-tying shorthanded goal in the third period.

Jayden Perron

Michigan forward who scored the game-winning goal in overtime.

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What’s next

The two teams will face off again on Saturday, February 8, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. EST at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. Michigan will have a chance to win the season series outright against their in-state rival.

The takeaway

This thrilling matchup between the top two teams in the Big Ten showcased the high level of talent and competitiveness in college hockey. Michigan's ability to mount a comeback and win in dramatic fashion underscores their status as one of the elite programs in the country.