Michigan State defeats Penn State in Beaver Stadium on Charlie Stramel hat trick

Spartans win 5-4 in overtime behind Stramel's three goals

Jan. 31, 2026 at 4:15pm

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Michigan State senior forward Charlie Stramel recorded a hat trick, including the overtime winning goal, to lead the No. 2 Spartans to a 5-4 victory over fifth-ranked Penn State in front of over 60,000 fans at Beaver Stadium on Saturday. Stramel's performance completed a weekend and season sweep for Michigan State over the Nittany Lions.

Why it matters

The outdoor game at Beaver Stadium was a highly anticipated matchup between two top-5 college hockey programs, drawing a massive crowd and showcasing the sport on a big stage. Stramel's heroics led Michigan State to the win, further cementing their status as an elite team in the nation.

The details

Stramel scored his first goal in the first period by cleaning up a rebound, then added his second with just two seconds left in the second period on a pass from Daniel Russell. His overtime winner came on a 1-on-1 opportunity against Penn State goaltender Kevin Reidler. The hat trick was Stramel's 23rd goal of the season, making him Michigan State's leading scorer.

  • The game was played on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • Michigan State also defeated Penn State 6-3 on Friday, January 30, 2026 inside Pegula Ice Arena.

The players

Charlie Stramel

A senior forward for Michigan State who recorded a hat trick, including the overtime winning goal, to lead the Spartans to victory over Penn State. Stramel was drafted in the first round of the 2023 NHL Draft by the Minnesota Wild.

Kevin Reidler

The Penn State goaltender who faced off against Stramel and the Michigan State offense.

Porter Martone

A Michigan State player whose shot attempt led to Stramel's first goal of the game when he cleaned up the rebound.

Daniel Russell

The Michigan State player who assisted on Stramel's second goal of the game in the final seconds of the second period.

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What they’re saying

“Huge thanks to Penn State for putting this event on. To play in front of that many people, it's pretty surreal and obviously happy with the win, but unreal environment, and super cool hockey game to be a part of.”

— Charlie Stramel

The takeaway

Charlie Stramel's heroic performance in the outdoor game at Beaver Stadium showcased his talent and leadership, helping Michigan State complete the weekend and season sweep over Penn State. The massive crowd and high-stakes matchup between two top-5 teams highlighted the growing popularity of college hockey and Michigan State's status as an elite program.