Penn State Wrestling Dominates Ohio State to Clinch Sixth-Straight Big Ten Regular Season Title
Inside a packed Bryce Jordan Center, with the crowd roaring and the Nittany Lion mascot leading the charge, Penn State wrestling once again reminded the Big Ten who runs the mat. The Nittany Lions dismantled Ohio State in dominant fashion, 36-5, to lock up their sixth consecutive Big Ten regular season title on February 13, 2026 - and they did it with the kind of all-around performance that championship teams are built on.
From opening whistle to the final bout, Penn State was in control. Let’s break it down.
Lilledahl Sets the Tone
At 125 pounds, Luke Lilledahl got the night started with a gritty, crowd-igniting win. Facing Ohio State’s Nic Bouzakis, Lilledahl battled to a 4-1 victory in sudden victory one. It wasn’t flashy, but it was a tone-setter - a hard-fought win that showed Penn State wasn’t just here to win, but to outwork and outlast.
Blaze Brings the Heat
Next up was Marcus Blaze at 133 pounds, who was introduced to a thunderous ovation. While the match result wasn’t detailed, Blaze’s presence alone speaks volumes about the depth and future of this Penn State squad. The energy in the building was unmistakable - this is a team with stars now and in the making.
Van Ness Dominates at 149
Shayne Van Ness put on a clinic at 149 pounds, steamrolling Brogan Fielding with a 20-5 technical fall. Van Ness was relentless, piling up points and showcasing the kind of offensive firepower that separates elite wrestlers from the pack. His performance was a highlight-reel staple, and it pushed Penn State’s momentum into overdrive.
Duke Delivers the Pin
At 157 pounds, PJ Duke wasted no time making his mark. He pinned Daxton Chase, sending the Bryce Jordan Center into a frenzy.
A pin in a dual like this is more than six points - it’s a statement. And Duke’s message was loud and clear: Penn State wasn’t letting up.
Mesenbrink Keeps the Pressure On
Mitchell Mesenbrink followed up at 165 with a dominant 12-2 major decision over Paddy Gallagher. Mesenbrink’s control and pace were textbook, and his ability to rack up points while keeping his opponent off balance showed just how deep this Penn State lineup runs.
Haines Steps Up as the Leader
Senior Levi Haines, competing at 174 pounds, delivered a commanding 15-1 tech fall over T.J. Schierl.
On a night when the team was gunning for another title, Haines - trophy in hand post-match - played the role of leader to perfection. His performance was clinical, and his celebration with teammates afterward was the picture of a program that knows how to win - and how to enjoy it.
Welsh Survives a Scare
One of the tightest bouts of the night came at 184 pounds, where Rocco Welsh edged out Dylan Fishback 7-6. Fishback had his moments, including a powerful throw, but Welsh held firm and found a way to grind out the win. It wasn’t easy, but it was emblematic of the team’s toughness across the board.
Bahr and Mirasola Close It Out
At 194 pounds, Josh Bahr turned in an 11-2 major decision over Luke Geog, continuing the Nittany Lions’ dominance. And in the heavyweight finale, Cole Mirasola capped the night with a sudden victory win, 4-1, over Nick Feldman. Mirasola’s poise in the clutch sealed the deal, putting the finishing touches on a nearly flawless dual.
A Championship Culture on Full Display
This wasn’t just a win - it was a showcase of what makes Penn State wrestling the gold standard in college wrestling right now. The energy in the Bryce Jordan Center was electric, boosted by performances from the Lionettes and a celebration of the 2016 national championship team. But more than the fanfare, it was the execution on the mat that stood out.
From freshmen like Lilledahl and Blaze to veterans like Haines, the Nittany Lions showed why they’re not just chasing titles - they’re building a legacy.
Six straight Big Ten regular season crowns. And if this performance is any indication, they’re not done yet.