This weekend, Ohio Stadium will transform into an ice rink as the Columbus Blue Jackets face off against the Detroit Red Wings in a unique event that merges college football tradition with professional ice hockey. The game, scheduled for Saturday at 6 p.m. ET, is part of the NHL's Stadium Series and promises to offer fans an unforgettable experience. Ohio Stadium, typically home to the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturdays during the football season, will now host a crowd of over 100,000 spectators for this special outdoor hockey match. This event follows a series of previous college football stadiums that have hosted NHL games, showcasing the growing trend of combining different sports traditions.

The upcoming 2025 Stadium Series marks a significant moment in the history of both sports. Ohio Stadium, known for its rich football heritage, will temporarily become a winter wonderland, complete with ice rinks adorned with designs inspired by the local teams. The field design features bold colors from the Columbus Blue Jackets—Union blue, white, and Goal red—alongside elements honoring the Ohio State Buckeyes' athletic spirit. A notable highlight will be the firing of "The Cannon" each time Columbus scores, blending hockey excitement with football traditions. Additionally, the iconic Ohio State marching band will play a pivotal role in player introductions, adding another layer of spectacle to the evening.

Previous events have also demonstrated the versatility of college football venues hosting NHL games. In 2020, the Cotton Bowl in Dallas welcomed the Dallas Stars and Nashville Predators, drawing an impressive crowd of 85,630 people. Similarly, Notre Dame Stadium hosted the Boston Bruins and Chicago Blackhawks in 2019, with an attendance of 76,126. One of the most memorable games took place in 2014 at Michigan Stadium, where the Toronto Maple Leafs faced the Detroit Red Wings before a record-breaking audience of 113,411. These events highlight how traditional football grounds can successfully adapt to accommodate ice hockey, creating unique atmospheres that captivate fans.

In recent years, baseball stadiums have also joined the list of venues hosting NHL outdoor games. Target Field in Minneapolis, Fenway Park in Boston, T-Mobile Park in Seattle, and Wrigley Field in Chicago have all played host to Winter Classic matches. Looking ahead, LoanDepot Park in Miami will welcome the event in 2026, presenting yet another intriguing setting for this popular series. As these multi-sport events continue to gain traction, they underscore the innovative ways in which sports organizations are finding new ways to engage and entertain their audiences.

The convergence of college football and ice hockey at Ohio Stadium exemplifies the evolving nature of sports entertainment. By merging the traditions of two distinct sports, this event not only offers fans a novel experience but also highlights the flexibility and creativity within the world of professional athletics. With a near-record crowd expected, the 2025 NHL Stadium Series promises to be a landmark occasion that will be remembered for years to come.