NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Ryan O'Reilly scored a power-play goal early in the third period, and the Nashville Predators opened the season Thursday night by beating the Blue Jackets 2-1 and extending their home winning streak over Columbus to 10 games.

The Predators ' streak on home ice against Columbus dates to March 30, 2019. They are 44-6-4 in Music City against the Blue Jackets. Overall, they have 71 wins over Columbus, which ranks second only to Nashville’s 72 wins against Chicago for the most by the franchise against any opponent.

Nashville also ensured a better start after last season's five-game skid.

O'Reilly put the Predators ahead by flipping a backhander from the side of the net over Columbus goaltender Jet Greaves off assists from Filip Forsberg and captain Roman Josi.

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