The Columbus Blue Jackets suffered a painful collapse against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday at Nationwide Arena, losing 5-4 in overtime after leading 4-1. The Penguins scored four unanswered goals, including a late equalizer and an overtime winner from Sidney Crosby, to steal the victory. Here are two key takeaways from the Blue Jackets' defeat:

1. Momentum Shifts and Unintelligent Plays

The Blue Jackets started the game strong, building a comfortable lead thanks to goals from Dmitri Voronkov, Mason Marchment, Kirill Marchenko, and Zach Werenski. Werenski's goal early in the second period made it 4-1, but the tide began to turn. A giveaway led to a goal by Noel Acciari late in the second period, shifting the momentum. Penguins coach Dan Muse acknowledged the importance of Acciari's goal, noting that it "totally changed the feel of the game".

In the third period, the Penguins continued to press, and the Blue Jackets struggled to regain control. Tommy Novak scored early in the period to cut the lead to 4-3. Blue Jackets coach Dean Evason lamented the "unintelligent plays" that contributed to the Penguins' comeback. With only 14 seconds remaining in regulation, Rickard Rakell scored to tie the game, completing the Penguins' comeback. Crosby then sealed the win in overtime, capitalizing on a Blue Jackets line change.

2. Failure to Maintain Composure and Close Out the Game

The Blue Jackets' inability to maintain their composure and close out the game was a major factor in their collapse. After building a three-goal lead, they seemed to sit back, allowing the Penguins to gain momentum. According to Crosby, the Penguins started to climb back into the game when they were on their toes. The Blue Jackets struggled to make plays and clear the puck, particularly in the defensive zone.

The Blue Jackets needed one more clear but did not get it, ultimately paying the price when Rakell scored the tying goal. In overtime, a questionable offside call that wasn't called and a poor line change further contributed to the loss. The team's inability to manage the game effectively in the later stages proved costly, turning a commanding lead into a disappointing defeat.

Overall, the Blue Jackets' collapse against the Penguins was a result of momentum swings, costly mistakes, and a failure to maintain composure with the lead. While the team showed promise early in the game, they were unable to sustain their performance and ultimately succumbed to the Penguins' relentless pressure. The Blue Jackets now sit at 18-16-7, five points back of the final Eastern Conference wild card spot.