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Two freshman goaltenders, Jared Rutledge and Steve Racine, have split time starting for Michigan this season. On Friday against Michigan State, Rutledge will get the nod in a crucial rivalry game:
Per Red Berenson this afternoon: Jared Rutledge will get the nod in goal for Michigan tomorrow night vs. MSU
— Michigan Hockey (@umichhockey) November 8, 2012
Rutledge and Racine have struggled this year, allowing 4.4 goals per game. That's a big increase from last season, when fifth-year senior Shawn Hunwick allowed opponents to score just 3.2 goals per contest. The deficiencies in goal have hurt Michigan's record, as the Wolverines are 3-3-1 overall and 1-2-1-1 in CHAA play.
Michigan State has struggled this season, as well, compiling a 3-4-1 record overall and a 2-2-0 mark in CCHA games. However, the Spartans' play in goal has been impressive. Will Yanakeff and Jake Hildebrand have combined for a 2.97 goals against average.
Friday night's game in Ann Arbor is set to begin at 7:35 p.m. ET. The Wolverines and Spartans will meet again on Saturday in East Lansing, with the puck scheduled to drop at 7:05 p.m. ET.