Well that escalated quickly.

Entering the third period with a 3-1 advantage over the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Columbus Blue Jackets did all they could to put the Metropolitan Division showdown out of reach with three goals in 51 seconds.

Here's who did the damage:

• Scott Hartnell (2:44)
• Brandon Saad (3:01)
• Boone Jenner (3:35)

Jenner's goal chased Matt Murray from the net after the rookie goalie allowed six goals on 23 shots, but Saad's goal was the nicest of the three:

(Courtesy: NHL.com)

The Blue Jackets entered the game one point back of the reigning Stanley Cup champions, and now sit in a tie for first overall with the Chicago Blackhawks after an eventual 7-1 win.

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