The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to play against the New York Islanders in a Metropolitan Division matchup, coinciding with Ohio State’s participation in the College Football Playoff championship game.

Despite this, the Blue Jackets took the opportunity to support their local college football team during its biggest game of the year.

As showcased on ESPN’s “College GameDay” at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Blue Jackets players arrived at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, sporting Buckeyes jerseys over their formal attire.

Ohio State’s game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET, where they will take on No. 7 Notre Dame in the CFP championship, vying for their ninth national championship title.

As they entered the locker room, right wingers Kirill Marchenko and Mathieu Olivier, along with center Sean Kuraly, displayed the O-H-I-O cheer. Kuraly, a native of Dublin, Ohio, spent some of his early years in Columbus and played college hockey for Miami (OH).

This marks Ohio State’s second appearance in the CFP championship game in its history, and their first since they won the title in 2014. Initially starting as a 9.5 point favorite, the Buckeyes currently sit as 8.5 point favorites against the Irish.

The Blue Jackets are scheduled to compete against the Detroit Red Wings at Ohio Stadium on Saturday, March 1, as part of the NHL’s 2025 Stadium Series.