In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the M1 Illinois ^ University of Fighting Illini escaped with a 4-2 victory over M2 Michigan State University.

M1 Illinois ^ University of gained the winning advantage on a goal by James Mcging 12:36 into the third period and hung on until final buzzer.

The Fighting Illini were sparked by Mcging, who had one goal and one assist.

M1 Illinois ^ University of had trouble converting on the power play advantage, managing just two goals on nine chances. By firing 37 shots on goal, the Fighting Illini exceeded the 2.0 shots they average per game this year.

M1 Illinois ^ University of also had goals scored by Austin Zima, Eric Cruickshank, and Tadayoshi Shibata, who scored one goal each. In addition, M1 Illinois ^ University of received assists from Chris Lozinak and John Olen, who contributed one each.

M2 Michigan State University's offense was clicking better than usual and put 17 shots on goal during the game, better than the 1.0 shot per game it averages. M2 Michigan State University was forced to rely heavily on their penalty kill unit throughout the game, as it racked up 22 penalty minutes.

M2 Michigan State University was helped by Tyler Van Acker, who tallied one goal. Van Acker scored on the power play 14:00 into the first period to make the score 2-0 M2 Michigan State University. M2 Michigan State University earned a power play opportunity when Kyle Varzino was put in the box for tripping. Michael Yuhasz assisted on the tally. M2 Michigan State University also got a goal from Nick Jones as well. Other players who recorded assists for M2 Michigan State University were David Melnyk and Andrew Patzin, who each chipped in one.

Zev Grumet-Morris rejected 15 shots on goal for M1 Illinois ^ University of. The Fighting Illini incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Grant Luzynski recorded 33 saves for M2 Michigan State University. M2 Michigan State University registered one goal on three power play opportunities.