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2013 Winter Classic: Michigan Stadium Will Likely Host Red Wings Vs. Maple Leafs

The University of Michigan is close to a deal with the NHL to host the 2013 Winter Classic.

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It appears that the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs will attempt to make history next year. According to Yahoo Sports' Puck Daddy blog, the University of Michigan is in advanced talks with the NHL to host the 2013 Winter Classic at Michigan Stadium. The most likely teams to play in the event appear to be the Red Wings and Maple Leafs, according to the report:

One source, who spoke on a condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to speak on the matter, said Michigan athletic director Dave Brandon wasn't initially sold on the idea of the NHL hosting an outdoor game at Michigan Stadium. But over a matter of a couple of weeks, the source said "something happened to make it go from looking like it could happen to [a point where] it probably will."

This would not be the first outdoor game held at Michigan Stadium. Michigan State and Michigan played in front of a world record 113,411 people in 2010 at the Big House. It is possible the Red Wings-Maple Leafs game could top that, and it would most likely top the NHL attendance record of 71,217 from the first Winter Classic in 2008.

For more on the Detroit Red Wings, check out Winging It In Motown. You can also head over to SB Nation's main NHL hub at SBNation.com/NHL.