Top-ranked Michigan, Michigan State hockey square off in Duel in the D

Best photos as the rivals meet at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The top-ranked Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans hockey teams faced off in the annual Duel in the D matchup at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The game featured hard-hitting action and intense rivalry between the two in-state foes.

Why it matters

The Duel in the D is one of the most anticipated college hockey games in the state of Michigan each year, drawing thousands of fans to watch the two storied programs battle it out on the ice. The rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State is fierce, and the outcome of this game can have major implications for the teams' seasons and conference standings.

The details

The game was a close-fought affair, with both teams playing physical, defensive hockey. Michigan State forward Porter Martone opened the scoring in the first period, but Michigan answered with a goal from forward Nick Moldenhauer to tie it up. The game remained tight throughout, with the goaltenders - Michigan's Jack Ivankovic and Michigan State's Trey Augustine - making several key saves to keep their teams in it. Tempers flared at the end of the first period, with a scuffle breaking out between the two teams as they headed to the locker rooms.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
  • The first period featured the opening goals from Michigan State's Porter Martone and Michigan's Nick Moldenhauer.

The players

Porter Martone

A forward for the Michigan State Spartans who scored the opening goal of the game.

Jack Ivankovic

The goaltender for the Michigan Wolverines, who made several key saves to keep his team in the game.

Trey Augustine

The goaltender for the Michigan State Spartans, who also played well in net to deny the Wolverines.

Brandon Naurato

The head coach of the Michigan Wolverines hockey team.

Adam Nightingale

The head coach of the Michigan State Spartans hockey team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The annual Duel in the D matchup between Michigan and Michigan State is always a highly anticipated and hard-fought battle between the two in-state rivals. This year's game was no exception, with both teams playing physical, defensive hockey and the goaltenders making key saves to keep the game close. The rivalry between these two programs is sure to continue for years to come.