In what promises to be an epic showdown, the University of Michigan and Michigan State University hockey teams are set to face off in the NCAA Tournament for the first time ever. The highly anticipated match will determine which team secures a spot in the Frozen Four.

The game will take place on Sunday night at the Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights, Missouri, with puck drop scheduled for 6:30 p.m. The thrilling encounter will be broadcast live on ESPN2, allowing fans nationwide to witness the intense rivalry between these two powerhouse programs.

Michigan, the third seed in the region, managed to secure a hard-fought 4-3 victory against the second-seeded North Dakota Fighting Hawks in the semifinals on Friday. Their exhilarating performance propelled them to the regional final, fueling their determination to clinch a coveted spot in the Frozen Four.

Meanwhile, the top-seeded Spartans of Michigan State showcased their resilience by staging an impressive comeback in their semifinal match against the fourth seed, Western Michigan. Trailing by two goals in the third period, the Spartans rallied and eventually emerged victorious in overtime. Their unyielding spirit and fighting mentality have undoubtedly added to the excitement surrounding this upcoming clash.

Throughout the storied history of their rivalry, the Wolverines hold the edge with an overall record of 176 wins, 142 losses, and 24 ties against the Spartans. However, in the current season, Michigan State has had the upper hand, winning four out of their five recent encounters, including a thrilling overtime victory in the Big Ten championship.

This season has been a remarkable one for the Spartans, as they make their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2012. Their last Frozen Four appearance dates back to 2007 when they captured the national championship. Michigan, on the other hand, seeks to regain their championship form, having last won the title in 1998. With eight national semifinal appearances since then, they have proven themselves as a formidable force in college hockey.

Michigan boasts the title of the third-highest scoring team in the nation this season, with a dynamic and talented lineup. Led by NHL draft picks Rutger McGroarty and Gavin Brindley, who have 52 and 51 points respectively, the Wolverines possess a potent offensive arsenal that has consistently challenged opponents.

Michigan State, known for their offensive prowess, averages an impressive 3.92 goals per game, ranking sixth in the nation. Their scoring contribution comes from various players, with ten of them registering at least 22 points. Standout performers such as Isaac Howard, Artyom Levshunov, and Karsen Dorwart have been instrumental in the Spartans' success, amassing 35 points each throughout the season.

As the rivals prepare to face off in this monumental clash, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing a thrilling contest filled with intense rivalries, remarkable performances, and the high stakes of a coveted Frozen Four berth. Hockey enthusiasts across the nation will be glued to their screens, eagerly awaiting the outcome of this historic showdown between Michigan and Michigan State.