Despite three goals and one assist from Mark Sickler and 11 saves by goalie Aleric Fyock, the Nittany Lions couldn't recover after a Quaker goal in the final seconds of the tight matchup.
Penn State couldn't keep up with Loyola Maryland in the two teams' first matchup since 2020.
The Buckeyes scored three of its goals on breakaways.
Strong talent and an up-and-coming goaltender could help the Nittany Lions run the table in the playoffs.
Here's what to expect in the opening round of the Big Ten Tournament between the Nittany Lions and the Buckeyes.
Jalen Pickett's 18 points weren't enough to propel the Nittany Lions to victory in a close game with the Fighting Illini.