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Michigan State hockey dropped two positions to No. 4 in the most recent national rankings following a weekend split against New Hampshire. The Spartans absorbed their first defeat of the campaign before responding with a 2-1 win in the second game.
The early-season setback was particularly difficult to swallow given the high expectations surrounding the program, which is pursuing a fourth consecutive Big Ten title. Meanwhile, in-state rival Michigan has remained unbeaten and holds the top ranking through the first few weeks.
Despite the frustration, there was a prevailing sense among the fanbase that an early loss for this young and talented group was not only inevitable but potentially beneficial in the long run.
Michigan State fell 1-0 in the opener against the Wildcats before grinding out a 2-1 victory in the rematch. Across the two games, the Spartans were outshot 79-38, a statistic that could serve as another wake-up call for the youthful roster.
Last season, Michigan State also lost its first game against New Hampshire before rattling off a string of impressive wins week after week. The situation mirrors the experiences of Tom Izzo's basketball teams over the years.
Head coach Adam Nightingale understands his team is capable of stacking wins and making noise in both the Big Ten and the NCAA Tournament. An early loss can act as both a motivator and a builder of resilience, something the Spartans have embraced before.
While Michigan State aims to win every game, winning late in the season often requires overcoming tough losses early. It's the old mantra of taking one step back to move three steps forward.
Rankings Shuffle
Michigan State was leapfrogged by Wisconsin and Denver in the latest poll. Denver, the reigning national champion, dropped two consecutive games against Michigan, which remains No. 1. The Pioneers now sit at No. 3, while Wisconsin has climbed to No. 2. The Badgers have looked dominant after defeating Michigan State in the NCAA Tournament last season and advancing to the Frozen Four before falling to Michigan. The Spartans now sit at No. 4 and will look to get back on track in their next matchup.
Hall of Fame Game Preview
The No. 4 Spartans will face the No. 8 North Dakota Fighting Hawks in a special one-game matchup in Austin, Texas, for the Hall of Fame Game. The contest will set a record with 13 first-round NHL draft picks playing in a single college hockey game. The game is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 31, at 8:07 p.m. ET.
North Dakota enters the matchup after being swept by Minnesota on the road last weekend, while Michigan State comes in following its split against New Hampshire. Both teams will be looking to right the ship after disappointing weekends, setting the stage for a highly competitive matchup.
With only one game on the schedule, there will be little room for error. For Michigan State, controlling the puck and finding a way to generate more shots on goal will be critical. The Spartans have the talent to compete with anyone in the country, but they will need a stronger offensive showing to leave Austin with a win.
Originally reported by yahoo.