A Clash of Titans: University of Michigan Men’s Lacrosse Prepares for Battle
ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as the No. 14-ranked University of Michigan men’s lacrosse team (6-5, 2-1 Big Ten) embarks on its final away game of the regular season against No. 18 Rutgers (6-6, 2-1 Big Ten) this Sunday, April 13. Fans can catch the action live on the Big Ten Network as the Wolverines aim to extend their intense six-match series against ranked opponents at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, N.J.
Game Preview: A Must-Watch Face-off
The stakes are escalating as U-M faces its eighth ranked opponent this season, bolstering its ferocious schedule, which stands as the 12th toughest in the nation. The Wolverines have proven their mettle by clashing with formidable teams, each vying for a position in the USILA top 20. Can they capitalize on this experience to conquer the Scarlet Knights?
Player Spotlight: Ryan Cohen’s Record-Breaking Journey
One of the standout players, Ryan Cohen, continues to make headlines as he ascends the Michigan lacrosse record books. Cohen has recently become one of just three players in program history to score over 100 career goals and amass 200 career points. This year, he’s also a proud member of the 2025 Tewaaraton Award Watch List, currently siting just 20 points shy of the program’s all-time record.
In addition, Cohen shines in the Big Ten, placing second with 36 points overall, while leading the conference with 22 assists this season. His remarkable average of two assists per game ranks him 21st nationally, spotlighting his integral role in the Wolverines’ offensive strategy.
Point Streaks and Emerging Talents
The Wolverines’ offensive prowess doesn’t end with Cohen. A quartet of players is currently riding impressive point streaks into this contest, further fueling U-M’s playoff ambitions.
- Lukas Stanat, a tenacious graduate student, has racked up 21 points over the last nine games.
- Senior Emmett Houlihan is hitting his stride, scoring goals in four consecutive matches.
- Sophomore Bo Lockwood has chipped in with four points across his last three appearances.
Defensive Dominance: Turnovers and Takeaways
On the defensive end, Michigan’s tenacity has been equally commendable. The Wolverines are among the Big Ten’s best with 110 caused turnovers, positioning them as the second-most defensively efficient team in the conference. Three key players, including junior Mason Whitney (2nd with 19 caused turnovers), graduate student Pace Billings (6th with 15), and senior Kees Van Wees (tied for 7th with 14), are proving to be formidable walls for opposing offenses.
Outstanding Performance from Goalie Hunter Taylor
Hunter Taylor, U-M’s junior goalie, is making history as he becomes just the second player in the program’s esteemed history to achieve 300 career saves, with a total of 361 to date. Taylor’s unmatched ability to perform under pressure has led to five double-digit save outings this season, putting him on the path for his second consecutive 100-stop season.
Looking Ahead: A Showdown with Ohio State
As the Wolverines gear up for this pivotal matchup against Rutgers, all eyes are on the April 19 clash against No. 2 Ohio State at U-M Lacrosse Stadium. This looming contest promises to be a thrilling finale to the regular season, potentially carrying high stakes for the conference title.
Conclusion: Join the Action!
Whether you are a die-hard Wolverine fan or new to the sport of lacrosse, this weekend’s game promises an electrifying atmosphere and nail-biting action. Will Michigan secure another ranked victory, or will Rutgers prove victorious on their home turf? Don’t miss a moment of the excitement—tune in to the Big Ten Network this Sunday and witness history in the making!
For more updates and to follow the Wolverines’ journey, visit the University of Michigan Athletics website.
