By Theresa Balocating
The Columbus Blue Jackets and the Detroit Red Wings took their rivalry outdoors for a spectacular showdown in the 2025 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series. On Saturday, March 1, Ohio Stadium transformed into a hockey battleground, hosting 94,571 fans under the open sky for a high-stakes matchup.
Following the excitement of the 4 Nations Face-Off in February and the intensity of the March 7 trade deadline, anticipation across the league has been at an all-time high. Every game carries extra weight as teams battle for playoff positions and this was no exception, with a crucial Eastern Conference wild-card spot on the line.
Columbus delivered in front of their home crowd, securing a hard-fought 5-3 victory, giving Blue Jackets fans plenty to celebrate. But the event was more than just a game, it was a full-scale hockey festival, packed with emotional tributes, live music and an electric atmosphere that made it a true celebration of the sport.
Just hours before the puck dropped,13,000 fans filled St. John Arena for a high-energy pep rally. Hosted by The Young Professor, the event featured performances from the Ohio State University Athletic Band and O.A.R.—a rock band made up of Ohio State alumni—firing up the crowd and setting the stage for the big game.
The Blue Jackets and the Red Wings also took part in a special tribute to the late Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically passed away earlier this season. Columbus honored their former star by arriving in a “Johnny Hokey’ signature outfit – matching Avalon Surf Shop sweatshirts, black Amiri hats, black sweats and black UGG boots. Meanwhile, the Red Wings paid their respects by dressing in Gaudreau’s No. 13 jerseys from Team USA and Boston College, a heartfelt nod to his lasting legacy.
At game time, the Blue Jackets were led onto the ice by Gaudreau’s mother, Jane, his widow Meredith along with their two young children, Noa and Johnny. Blue Jackets head coach, Dean Evason shared that the team is constantly talking about Johnny and keeping his memory alive.
"Johnny is still teaching us so many ways. We talk about him a lot. There's just so many ways that Johnny has inspired us.”
The energy inside “The Shoe” was undeniable. The historic 103-year-old stadium, home to Ohio State football, was packed despite the cold conditions. The Blue Jackets’ signature cannon was on hand booming after every Columbus Goal.
The entertainment didn't stop with the game. Twenty-One Pilots performed in the first intermission, and the Ohio State Athletic Band kept the energy high throughout the night. Reinforcing just how important this event was to Columbus and its hockey community.
“I think Columbus hockey is only going to grow from here,” said CBJ forward Kent Johnson post-game. “We love playing in front of the fans, and it showed even more. Hopefully this event can help grow the game in Ohio. I’m sure there were fans from other places than Columbus, too, that made the drive, so we definitely appreciate it.”
The game opened with an action-packed first period, as the Red Wings dominated early with a 16-4 shot advantage. Despite the early pressure, the Blue Jackets weathered the storm and took control in the second period.
Denton Mateychuk found the back of the net, sending fans into a frenzy and triggering the roar of the Blue Jackets’ iconic cannon. By the end of the second, Columbus had built a 3-1 lead, leaving the Red Wings in a tough position as they fought to keep their first potential playoff appearance in eight years alive.
The Red Wings came out strong in the third period, clawing their way back with goals from Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat—the team’s leading goal scorer. DeBrincat’s second goal of the night tied the game with just 3:30 remaining, setting up a thrilling finish.
But Columbus wasn't done. Less than a minute after DeBrincat’s tying goal, winger Justin Danforth buried the go-ahead goal, putting Columbus back in the lead. With just a minute left on the clock, Adam Fantilli sealed the deal with an empty-netter, locking in a 5-3 victory.
As the final cannon blast echoed through Ohio Stadium, the 2025 Stadium Series concluded with an unforgettable night of hockey.
From the emotional tributes to the high-stakes battle on the ice, this game was more than just a fight for a playoff spot—it was a showcase of the passion, tradition, and community that makes hockey so special.
Columbus’ victory keeps their postseason hopes alive, while Detroit will need to regroup as the playoff race tightens. Beyond the standings, this game proved once again why outdoor hockey captivates fans like no other. More fans, more ice, and more hype—it was everything the Stadium Series promised and more.
Edited by Madeleine Meneguzzi
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