Thursday is just Friday Eve.

You can't beat a Friday Eve like today — the sun’s still peeking out before it officially disappears for the year. Catching those last few rays of light feels extra warm. Thursday always carries that good kind of anticipation, knowing the weekend is right behind it. Or maybe you get that chill down your spine realizing Friday means Ice Hockey for the nation’s number one team.

The Michigan State Spartans head back to the ice for a two-game series against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish — Friday at 7 P.M. EST and Saturday at 6 P.M. EST. Both games will stream exclusively on Peacock, and you can also listen live at msuspartans.com.

It’s a classic matchup: the No. 1 ranked Michigan State Spartans (7–1) facing off against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (3–6–1) in South Bend for a weekend battle.

Michigan State Hockey (@MSU_Hockey) on X Headed to South Bend this week!

The Spartans Stay Hot

Michigan State knows it has a target on its back and continues to ride a seven-game winning streak after dropping the opener. That streak includes three shutouts from the nation’s top goaltender — and future Detroit Red Wing — Trey Augustine. Those clean sheets came against New Hampshire, Northern Michigan, and then–No. 3 Penn State last weekend.

Augustine’s dominance shows up both to the eye and on the stat sheet. Through seven games, he’s allowed just 10 goals (1.41 GAA), saved 168 shots (.944 SV%), and earned six wins to go along with his three shutouts.

Not Just One Trick

The Spartans aren’t a one-man show. Their skaters can drop opponents and fire off shots that give opposing goaltenders nightmares.

They’re led by Porter Martone, the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers, who has 11 points in eight games (4 goals, 7 assists). The Minnesota Wild’s 2023 first-round pick, Charlie Stramel, along with Junior, Tommi Mannisto, each lead the team with five goals apiece.

Martone’s seven assists top the team, followed closely by Traverse City’s own Daniel Russell (6).

Brad Galli (@BradGalli) on X Michigan State hockey is not shying away from its national title goal. Two wins over Penn State in a top-three battle helped solidify the Spartans' status as a top contender yet again.

Fighting Irish Face a Challenge

Notre Dame, meanwhile, hasn’t had the start new head coach Brock Sheahan envisioned after taking over for longtime coach Jeff Jackson.

After dropping their first two games in the 2025 Ice Breaker Tournament, the Irish bounced back with three wins and a tie — but then hit a wall, losing four straight (two to Michigan, two to Minnesota). Things don’t get easier as they now host the nation’s top team.

The Irish are led by Sutter Muzzatti, who has 9 points (6 goals, 3 assists). His six goals are well ahead of the pack, with three players tied for second at three goals apiece. Paul Fischer ranks second on the team with 8 points (2 goals, 6 assists).

Prediction

The Spartans boast a deep, talented roster filled with future NHL stars, while Notre Dame brings grit and desperation as they look to snap their skid. It’s a matchup as old as time — and as we all know, nothing in life comes easy.

Friday: Michigan State 3–1

Saturday: Michigan State 3–2

Expect a battle all weekend long — and make sure to tune in on Peacock.