Augustana Hockey to Face Ohio State in Columbus
The Vikings will travel to the Schottenstein Center this weekend for a two-game series against the Buckeyes.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Hockey
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Augustana University is set to face Ohio State in a road series starting on October 23, 2026. This weekend marks the first-ever meeting between the two hockey programs.
Why it matters
The matchup serves as a critical test for Augustana, which currently holds a 3-0-1 record and leads the CCHA in scoring defense. Conversely, Ohio State looks to leverage its roster of 10 NHL-drafted players to overcome its 2-2-0 start.
Augustana enters the series allowing just 1.8 goals per game, though the team is currently 0-for-19 on power plays. Ohio State maintains a roster featuring 10 players drafted by NHL teams.
The players
Augustana University
This university operates an NCAA Division I ice hockey program based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Ohio State
The Buckeyes represent the collegiate ice hockey team competing out of the Schottenstein Center in Columbus.
Hayden Hennen
He is a senior defenseman for the Augustana University hockey team.
Evan Jardine
He is a freshman forward currently leading the Ohio State team with five points.
The details
Augustana University comes into Columbus following a 3-2 overtime victory against Nebraska Omaha. Vikings defenseman Hayden Hennen is expected to return to the lineup for the series after missing the previous game due to an upper-body injury.
Timeline
October 23, 2026, at 5:30 PM CT: Augustana University plays Ohio State in Columbus.
October 24, 2026, at 4:00 PM CT: Augustana University concludes the series against Ohio State.
Season Trajectory
This series marks the first meeting between Augustana and Ohio State, establishing an early-season non-conference test. The outcome will impact Augustana's momentum as it looks to maintain its ranking as the ninth-best scoring defense nationally.
Augustana currently maintains a 9-for-10 penalty kill success rate, a metric that will be tested against Ohio State's deep roster of NHL-drafted talent. Fans should monitor the rotation of Augustana players, as the team continues to adjust positions to provide experience.
The takeaway
The upcoming series will demonstrate whether Augustana's strong defensive play can withstand a high-caliber offensive opponent. Improving on a 0-for-19 power-play record will be essential for the Vikings to compete consistently against Big Ten opponents.
Further reading
For more updates on the local collegiate hockey scene, visit Columbus Hockey.
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