Ohio State Men’s Lacrosse Prepares for Huge Ten Tournament Opener Against Michigan

The Ohio State Buckeyes men’s lacrosse team is set to host the Wolverines of Michigan in the opening round of the 2024 Big Ten Tournament at Ohio State Lacrosse Stadium. The matchup marks the beginning of the postseason for both programs, with the winner advancing in the conference tournament and earning a stronger position for NCAA Tournament consideration.

Ohio State enters the game with a 9-6 overall record and a 4-2 mark in Big Ten play, securing the third seed in the tournament. The Buckeyes finished the regular season strong, winning four of their last five games, including a key victory over then-No. 12 Maryland. Michigan, meanwhile, earned the sixth seed with a 7-8 overall record and a 2-4 conference mark. The Wolverines have shown resilience, winning three of their last four games to close the regular season.

Historical Context and Rivalry Significance

The Ohio State-Michigan lacrosse rivalry has grown in intensity since both programs joined the Big Ten in 2015. While the football rivalry dominates headlines, the lacrosse matchup has develop into increasingly competitive. Ohio State holds a 15-8 advantage in the all-time series, but Michigan has won two of the last three meetings, including a 12-10 victory in Ann Arbor earlier this season.

This year’s tournament meeting carries added weight, as both teams are vying for not only a Big Ten title but likewise at-large bids to the NCAA Tournament. A win for Ohio State would solidify its standing as a top-tier program in the conference, while a Michigan victory would represent a significant upset and boost their postseason resume.

Key Players to Watch

Ohio State’s offense is led by senior attackman Liam Smith, who ranks third in the Big Ten with 38 goals and 22 assists for 60 points. Smith has been a consistent threat, scoring multiple goals in seven of the Buckeyes’ last eight games. Junior midfielder Connor Davis provides versatility, contributing 28 goals and 15 assists while excelling in transition play and face-offs.

On defense, senior goalkeeper Jake Thompson has been instrumental, posting a .580 save percentage and averaging 10.2 saves per game. Thompson’s performance in net has kept Ohio State competitive in close games, including several one-goal victories down the stretch.

Michigan’s attack is paced by junior attackman Ethan Brooks, who leads the team with 32 goals and 18 assists. Brooks has been particularly effective in man-up situations, converting at a 45% clip. Senior midfielder Tyler Collins anchors the Wolverines’ midfield, winning 52% of his face-offs and contributing 19 goals and 12 assists.

In goal, sophomore netminder Liam O’Connor has seen increased playing time in recent weeks, posting a .550 save percentage over his last five starts. His ability to make clutch saves will be critical if Michigan hopes to pull off the upset.

Tournament Implications and Outlook

The winner of the Ohio State-Michigan game will advance to the Big Ten Tournament semifinals, where they will face either the No. 2 seed Rutgers or the No. 7 seed Penn State. The tournament champion earns an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, while the runner-up and other high finishers may receive at-large selections based on their overall resume and strength of schedule.

Ohio State’s resume includes wins over ranked opponents Maryland and Denver, along with a strong strength of schedule ranking in the top 20 nationally. A victory over Michigan would further enhance their NCAA Tournament credentials. Michigan, while lacking a signature win, has improved defensively over the second half of the season and could make a case with a strong tournament run.

The game will be streamed live on the Big Ten Network and available via the BTN app. Ohio State Lacrosse Stadium is expected to draw a strong crowd, with student sections and alumni groups promoting attendance through social media campaigns.

Key Takeaways

• Ohio State hosts Michigan in the 2024 Big Ten Tournament opening round at Ohio State Lacrosse Stadium.
• The Buckeyes enter as the third seed (9-6, 4-2 Big Ten); Michigan is the sixth seed (7-8, 2-4 Big Ten).
• Ohio State leads the all-time series 15-8, but Michigan has won two of the last three meetings.
• Key players: Ohio State’s Liam Smith (60 points) and Jake Thompson (.580 save%); Michigan’s Ethan Brooks (50 points) and Tyler Collins (19 goals, 12 assists).
• The winner advances to the Big Ten semifinals and improves their NCAA Tournament resume.
• Game will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network and streamed via the BTN app.

As the postseason begins, the Ohio State-Michigan lacrosse matchup represents more than just a conference game—it’s a battle for momentum, prestige and postseason positioning. With both teams playing their best lacrosse of the season, fans can expect a high-intensity, tightly contested game that could shape the trajectory of both programs’ seasons.