What's Happening?
The Michigan State Spartans hockey team has advanced to the No. 2 position in the latest USCHO.com rankings, despite not having played an official game in the 2025-26 season. The Spartans, who were previously ranked No. 3 in the preseason poll, moved up past Boston University. They are now only behind Western Michigan in the national rankings. The college hockey season began last weekend, with some teams already playing their first games. Michigan State, however, has only participated in an exhibition match against Windsor, which they won 4-0. The Spartans are set to open their season with a home game against New Hampshire on Thursday, followed by another game against the same team at Munn Ice Arena on Friday.
Why It's Important?
The rise of Michigan State in the USCHO.com rankings is significant for the team and its supporters, as it reflects the program's strong reputation and potential for the upcoming season. Being ranked No. 2 nationally places the Spartans in a favorable position to attract attention from scouts, media, and potential recruits. This ranking could also boost team morale and fan engagement as the season progresses. For the broader college hockey landscape, Michigan State's ascent adds competitive pressure on other top-ranked teams, particularly Western Michigan, which currently holds the top spot. The Spartans' performance in the upcoming games will be closely watched to see if they can maintain or improve their standing.
What's Next?
Michigan State will begin their official season with a two-game series against New Hampshire, starting on Thursday. The outcomes of these games will be crucial in determining whether the Spartans can maintain their high ranking or potentially challenge Western Michigan for the top position. The team's performance will also be a key indicator of their readiness and potential for the rest of the season. Fans and analysts will be observing how the Spartans handle the pressure of their elevated ranking and whether they can translate their preseason success into regular-season victories.
