2009 NCAA Tournament: Frozen Four Game Previews

It’s almost time.  By this time tomorrow, we’ll know which teams will be playing for all the marbles.  It’s FROZEN FOUR time!  Bemidji State, Boston University, Miami, and Vermont have all been preparing and recovering for the past week.  They’ll hit the ice at the Verizon Center in Washington DC, ready to face the hurdles before them, and hopefully punch their ticket to the national championship game.  Let’s take one last look at these four participants before the games finally get played.  Get excited, folks!

Game 1 (5 PM, ESPN2) Bemidji State v. Miami

Bemidji State Beavers

The Beavers have been a true Cinderella story this tournament.  They took down powerhouse Notre Dame and ECAC power Cornell with relative ease.  Their top line is one of the greatest, fastest threats in all of college hockey.  These guys really showed that the CHA can be a force.  Tom Serratore has gotten the best out of his players when he’s needed to.  Matt Dalton has been a rock all tournament long so far.  The biggest factor, besides being the obvious underdogs, is that the Beavers are unable to capitalize on their momentum.  Serratore will have to hope he can bring back the team that played so well two weekends ago.  That being said, it’s feasible that the Beavers will continue their run right into the national championship game.  The WCHA will definitely be thinking twice when they vote on whether or not to accept Bemidji after what this team has done so far this year.

The Beavers will need to play very smart hockey (as they’ve done so far) in order to take down Miami.  Miami is a very defensive minded team, and will be looking to shut down Bemidji’s first line, a line that proved deadly in the Midwest Regional.  Serratore and his club will need to find a way to overcome that, perhaps by getting some scoring from the other lines.  Dalton will also need to be on top of his game, and limit the mistakes, play his angles, and control the puck when he needs to.

Miami Redhawks

After having their season ended by Boston College in dramatic fashion a year ago, Miami came into this years’ tournament an unlikely contender.  They started the season off very well, but tapered off towards the end, losing in their first round series in the CCHA Tournament.  Overshadowed by Michigan and Notre Dame all year, it is Enrico Blasi and his Redhawks that have advanced to the Frozen four.  It hasn’t been an easy path, as they needed to take on a very tough Denver team.  Of course, the Redhawks made it look easy, taking advantage of a Denver team that looked like it needed an extra day to prepare.  The Redhawks then held off Duluth, the team I picked to make it out of the West Regional, in a very tight 2-1 contest.

The Redhawks have played excellent defense thus far in the tournament, giving up just 3 goals.  Miami will hope to continue their shut down defense, and must try to neutralize the top line of Bemidji State.  Overall, the Redhawks are the more talented team, and if they can stick to their game plan, they should be able to contain the Beavers.  However, it will be up to the forwards to take advantage of their chances.  Matt Dalton has played excellent recently, and will be tough to beat.

Game 1 Prediction

Should I even bother?  I don’t know.  On paper, Miami should win this game, but if we went by paper, then the tournament would already be decided, and that’s why we play the games.  That being said, I think that the time off will hurt Bemidji more than it helps, and Miami will take advantage of their chances on the big national stage.  I say the Redhawks will advance, 3-1. My pick is Miami, final answer.

Game #2 (8:30 pm, ESPN2) Boston University v. Vermont

Vermont

This years’ edition of the Vermont Catamounts has swayed away from what they’ve been known for for the past few years.  A strong defense based around an excellent goalie has been the calling card of the Cats.  They were never really known for being a high scoring team.  That has changed, especially with the emergence of Viktor Stalberg.  That’s not to say there’s no defense or goaltending… I’m sure Patrick Cullity and Rob Madore will have something to say about that.  Vermont does have the honor of being the only team to defeat Boston University twice this season.  They’ve actually accounted for 33% of the Terriers’ losses…. neato!  That weekend, however, proved to be a turning point for BU, and I’m sure that Kevin Sneddon will not let his team think that they can beat BU again without trying too hard because they’ve done it before.   Anyway, Vermont advanced by crusing by Yale, then winning a thriller in Double OT over the Air Force Falcons on a shot that went through the net.  Have to admit, I want to see the flyboys make it, but it wasn’t meant to be.

The Cats will need to try to strike quickly, and beat Millan early, as he seems to get better and better as the game goes on.  Vermont will also need to try to revert back a few years and play excellent defense, as BU has very very fast forwards, and defensemen who like to step up into the play.  For a game plan that could work… they should probably review the tape of the BU / UNH game at the Northeast Regional last week.

Boston University

Ah yes, my beloved Boston University Terriers.  Undoubtedly one of the top teams all season long, BU has almost always managed to find a way to win.  After tough wins in the Hockey East Tournament, BU cruised to victory over Ohio State before getting a lucky bounce against UNH in the Northeast Regional.  UNH definitely played better in that game, but good teams always find a way to win.  For sure, BU will be looking to seek revenge against a team that beat them twice in the friendly confines of Agganis Arena this season.  The pressure is all on the shoulders of the Terriers, who are the clear favorites to take home the title this year.  At this point of the season though, anything can happen, and BU will need to bring it’s best game to take down Vermont.

The key for Terriers will be special teams.  The power play needs to find it’s groove again, to take advantage of a Vermont ‘D’ corps that isn’t quite as strong as in years past.  However, Vermont is much more explosive on the offensive end this year, so BU’s defensemen will need to be careful of breakaways.  There were way too many in the game against UNH.  Again, staying out of the penalty box is something the Terriers will need to do as well… the PK is good, but at this point of the season you don’t want to take too many chances on the shorthand.

Game 2 Prediction

I could try to predict this game, but like I did for the Northeast Regional, I’m going to let this one play itself out.  This is definitely the matchup that I think will produce the next national champion, but I have been wrong before.  Regardless, its going to be a great game, and I can’t wait to catch the end of it.  I’ll be sure to watch after I get out of the Bruins game tomorrow (or tonight, rather).  Go BU!!!

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2009 NCAA Tournament: The Frozen Four

I’ve taken this time to digest what’s happened in college hockey over the past few weeks.  Well.. to be honest, I got into another car accident so I’ve been trying to deal with that, and working a lot also.  But its been a crazy few weeks for college hockey and college hockey fans.  Making the trip to Manchester, I don’t think I’ve ever watched so much college hockey.  We literally drove around to find places to watch more, and it was a ton of fun.  Add to that the two BU victories, and a trip to the Frozen Four for the first time ever for the Terriers.  It was a great weekend.  Continuing on, it’s still one and done the rest of the way, but the usual cast of characters are definitely not there.  The way the tournament has shaped up so far has provided one of the most interesting Frozen Fours to date.

Let’s recap on some of the great surprises of the tournament so far:

• Air Force took down #3 Michigan in the first game of the 2009 Tournament.
• Miami took it to Denver in the West Regional, taking out the #4 Pioneers.
• Bemidji State smoked Notre Dame, 5-1, in the Midwest Regional.
• Minnesota Duluth tied Princeton with 0.8 seconds left in their game.  Then proceeded to win in overtime.
• UNH tied North Dakota with 0.1 second left in their game.  Then proceeded to win in overtime.
• After a nearly 20 minute review, a shot by Vermont that went through the net proved to be the game winner, knocking Air Force out and punching Vermont’s ticket to the frozen four.  This review happened 5 minutes after the initial shot…
• Bemidji State destroyed Cornell 4-1, punching the first ever ticket to the Frozen Four by a non-big 4 conference team.
• Miami held off Duluth… making it 2 #4 seeds in the Frozen Four.

BU, actually, was the only team to hold serve.  However, it was just barely, as New Hampshire coach Dick Umile formulated an excellent defensive plan, and his team executed it nearly to perfection, keeping the game tied at 1 until an unfortunate re-direction by Senior Jerry Pollastrone put the puck in his own net. With only 14.4 seconds left.  That’s how close it was for the Terriers.  One lucky bounce and either one of the two teams could be in the Frozen Four.

That being said, BU is the overwhelming favorite to win it all now.  However, they by no means have the easiest road to a title.  The Terriers next face #9 Vermont, the only team to defeat them twice this year.  Both of those victories happened at Agganis Arena as well, and only weeks after BU thumped Vermont 7-2 at the Gut.  Another interesting tidbit: Both of these teams are undefeated at neutral sites…. one of those teams will have that streak ended for this season.

The strangest thing is that there will definitely be a #4 seed in the championship game.  I don’t know the last time that happened (or if it ever happened before), but it shows that there really is parity in college hockey.  Any one team can win on any given night.  I don’t think it’s possible that anyone would have picked these four teams to be duking it out for the national championship.  My bracket was busted after the first night.  The only one regional that turned out the way I thought it would was the Northeast Regional.  Luckily, it turned out the way I wanted, and I got to see some excellent hockey…. despite some aggravation provided by BU’s own fans, but I’ll leave that to be discussed at a later time.

In about 4 days time, we’ll have crowned a new champion in Division 1 college hockey.  I may be there for it, I may not be.  But the excitement is building, and I can’t wait.  Stay tuned for more.. as we preview the games, and reflect back on the season as it winds to an end.

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2009 NCAA Tournament: Northeast Regional Preview

It’s roughly 11 and a half hours till the first teams will hit the ice at the Verizon Wireless Arena for the 2009 NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Northeast Regional.  This, in my opinion was one of the more difficult regionals to be in.  There are the three traditional powerhouses in BU, UNH and UND, and a team that is probably better than your typical #4 seed in Ohio State.  Of course, after seeing the results of yesterday’s games, we can see that anything can happen.  Congrats to the Flyboys at the Air Force Academy, the Redhawks of Miami, the Catamounts of Vermont, and the Bulldogs of UMD for advancing to the next stage in the tournament.  Excellent games today, and I wish I could’ve seen them instead of just listening.  With the upsets in mind, let’s take a look at the teams in the Northeast regional.

Game #1:  #2 North Dakota (24-14-4, 17-7-4 WCHA) v. #3 New Hampshire (19-12-5, 15-8-4 Hockey East)

This game features two clubs that I have always associated with high flying offenses, hitting hard, and having very skilled players.  Well, that’s no different this year for the Sioux and the Wildcats.  Both teams are averaging over three goals a game.  The difference this year will be in net.  Freshman Brad Eidsness of the Sioux and Sophomore Brian Foster of the Wildcats will be tested a lot this weekend.  Both are coming off disappointing ends to their respective conference seasons and are looking to redeem themselves in Manchester.

For New Hampshire to win this game, they’ll need to harness the excitement of the home crowd, and make the most of their power play opportunities, a component of their game that just hasn’t been that strong this year.  They’re struggling big time at 11.5%.  The Sioux don’t have the greatest penalty kill, so the Wildcats should do their best to take advantage of that.  For the Sioux, it will be getting out to an early start, using their big defensemen and balanced scoring to wear out the ‘Cats.  Personally, I think that people are already counting UNH out, but I think they can pull it off.

Game #2: #1 Boston University (31-6-4, 18-5-4 Hockey East) v. #4 Ohio State (23-14-4m 13-11-4-3 CCHA)

On paper, BU is the clear favorite in this game, especially with their stifiling defense giving up less than 2 goals per game.  BU’s offense is also a little more high powered, averaging nearly 4 goals per game, led by talented centers Colin Wilson (15-35-50), and Nick Bonino (16-28-44).  However, as Air Force and Miami showed, you cannot overlook the #4 seed, and Coach John Markell is sure to let his team know that it’s possible to take down a team like BU in a one and done situation.  Coach Parker is sure to let his boys know the same.  BU has been sluggish in their last few weeks, but have still find a way to win, which is a trademark of a good team.  However, at this point in the season, that’s not going to cut it.

For the Buckeyes to take this game, they’ll need to do what Maine did to BU a few weeks ago.  Do what BU does, but do it Better.  It’s possible to catch the Terriers looking in the mirror, and trapping to take away the transition game from the Terriers.  Ohio State will need to make the most of their opportunities, and convert on the power play.  BU is one of the most penalized teams in the nation.  For BU, they’ll need to draw on their experience, skill, and speed to attack the young Buckeyes, and try to take away the game before Ohio can settle into a trapping style game.  Staying out of the box will be key for BU (I’m talking to you, Eric Gryba), so that the skill players can remain fresh for the 5 on 5 and Power Play situations.

Predictions:

I’m not going to try to pick a winner in the BU game, as its been too crazy tonight with all the upsets.  I’m worried that the Terriers will take this game too lightly and look towards the “stronger” competition in UND and UNH.  That would be a huge mistake.  As for game 1, I’m going to say that UNH will pull it out, and prove people to people they can win at the Verizon Wireless Arena.

I’ll be heading to Manchester in a few hours… and settling in at Murphy’s Tap Room at about 12:30 pm.  If you’ve read this, I’ll probably be there before the games both days, so feel free to come by and say hi!  Go Terriers!

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2009 NCAA Tournament: Going to Manchester!

The BU Terriers have shown this year that they’re a special team.  They’ve won every single tournament they’ve played in this year, won 31 games, scored a boatload of goals, and have found ways to win when it seemed impossible.  As such, the Terriers have been rewarded with the #1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament, and will be travelling to nearby Manchester, New Hampshire for the Northeast Regional in the tournament.  The Buckeyes of Ohio State will be meeting the Terriers there, and one thing can be said for sure:  None of the previous accomplishments for BU mean anything at this moment.  There is one title left to be won, and it begins on Saturday for BU.

Luckily, I’ll be travelling to Manchester to provide some coverage for those of you who read this site.  I’m really excited, and extra pumped that BU will be going to the closest regional possible.  Look for a preview of the BU game to be coming soon.  For now, let’s take a look at how the rest of the Tournament looks… and most notably, the other teams in the Northeast Regional.

Here’s what we’ve got for the Bracket, starting out West:

West Regional @ Mariucci Arena in Minneapolis, Minnesota

#1 Denver v. #4 Miami

#2 Minnesota-Duluth v. #3 Princeton

There is definitely a good mix in this regional  Two WCHA teams will definitely help the atmosphere here.  I like the way that Minnesota Duluth has been playing, and I’ve picked them to come out of this regional.  I don’t think that even Zane Kalemba is matching the play of Alex Stalock right now, and Duluth is really hot.  One factor that could play against the Bulldogs is the sheer amount of games that they’ve been playing recently, but fatigue didn’t seem to be a factor in the WCHA championship game against Denver.  A Denver - Duluth championship game is what I expect to see, and the atmosphere should be electric.  Minnesota fans already proved that they’ll be cheering for the hometown team, so it looks to be a very hostile Regional for Denver.  Nothing against Miami, as I think they’re the strongest #4 seed, but Denver is better, and shouldn’t have a problem with Blasi’s Redhawks.

Predicted Frozen Four Participant: Minnesota-Duluth

Midwest Regional @ Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan

#1 Notre Dame v. #4 Bemidji State

#2 Northeastern v. #3 Cornell

This regional features some very very good defensive teams.  Northeastern’s Brad Thiessen and Cornell’s Ben Scrivens should put up a clinic on good goaltending this weekend.  That game will come down to special teams, and I’m going to take Cornell over Northeastern because the Huskies have been taking untimely penalties recently (Much like BU), and Cornell should be able to convert.  Carter Hutton of Lowell seemed to stone NU pretty well, and Scrivens is better than Hutton.  If the Huskies are going to win this game, they’ll need to stay out of the box.  Thiessen, as usual, should do his part.  Will his offense help him out?

In the other game, we’ve got CHA champ Bemidji State, and CCHA Champ Notre Dame, the #2 overall seed in the tournament.  Sorry Beaver fans… it’s been done before, but this Notre Dame team is good…. really good.  I don’t see them having any problem at all with the Beavers.  I’ll tell ya though, if Bemidji manages to pull it off… it would be amazing.  Still… the Irish will take care of business, and should move on to the Frozen Four.  The second night in this regional should be very close, no matter who plays.

Predicted Frozen Four Participant: Notre Dame

East Regional @ The Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport, Connecticut

#1 Michigan v. #4 Air Force

#2 Yale v. #3 Vermont

This regional might actually have the best games all weekend.  I’d love to get a chance to go watch the flyboys duke it out with the Wolverines.  Air Force has been such a story this year, especially with Hobey Finalist Jacques Lamoreaux and the incredible 13-0-0 start.  The Falcons have taken a dip since that, but they have shown they can be very competitive.  If Andrew Volkening can stand strong, the Falcons are a huge offensive threat and should play a good game.  Michigan’s defense will need to be strong.  I still think the Wolverines can get it done, but of the 1 v 4 matchups, I think this has the biggest potential for an upset.

The second set of teams are two teams that have exploded this year.  ECAC Champion Yale, and Vermont.  Vermont is enjoying one of its best offensive seasons ever, led by Viktor Stalberg, a Hobey Finalist and the leading goal scorer in Hockey East.  Yale, on the other hand, has been on a tear through the ECAC, winning the tournament. The Bulldogs also have the advantage of playing near home, which should help their chances greatly.  This regional should be well attended, as Vermont fans travel well.

Predicted Frozen Four Participant: Michigan

Yes, I know that I went fairly safe with my picks… but the top teams are just so good this year that it’s tough to go against them.  I did pick one upset… Duluth, because they’re playing so well right now.

Just counting the days till I head off to Manchester… stay tuned for more.

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Bridgeport or Manchester: A Regional Dilemma

White it is looking forward a bit, it is pretty safe to say that Boston University will be making it to the NCAA tournament.  Running through the pairwise, there really is no way that the Terriers can be excluded.  However, something that can still be determined is WHERE the Terriers will be going to play their regional game(s).  Right now, it’s pretty much narrowed down to the two Eastern Regionals, the Northeast Regional in Manchester, NH, and the East Regional in Bridgeport, CT.

Reading the USCHO fan forum (which I highly suggest if you’re interested in college hockey), there is some pretty intense debate as to where BU fans would prefer to go for Regionals.  There are good arguements for each, but in the end it will be what the committee thinks will be best for the gate.  My personal opinion is that the Terriers should go to Manchester.  It’s a closer ride, and I think that it will be easier for a lot of BU fans to make it there.  That being said, there is a large group of BU alumni in the Tri-State area that would be able to make the Regional in Bridgeport.

Another reason why I’d prefer Manchester over Bridgeport is the town.  Nothing against Bridgeport, but I’ve been there before and its not the nicest place to be.  I’ve never been to Manchester, but I think that it’d be a better place to go.  C’mon NCAA.. help me out with gas costs here!

A lot also depends on how the other Hockey East schools fare.  With New Hampshire as a host in the Northeast Regional, they are already a guarantee to be in Manchester if they make it (which they should).  If they drop to a #4 seed, that will be an issue, as the committee likes to avoid inter-conference matchups in the first round of the NCAAs.  In that case, I would suspect BU to be in Bridgeport.  UNH did not help this by losing their series to Boston College last weekend, not that I’m bitter about that or anything!

In the end, I’m grateful to be in the Tournament.  This is a strong BU team, and I hope that they make the most of it.  A National Championship is not out of reach this year.  Let’s make it happen.

Where would you rather have BU placed?  Discuss in the comments.. I’d love to hear what you think!

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Handicapping the 2009 Hockey East Quarterfinals

It’s tournament time in Hockey East!  The brackets are set and 8 clubs are set to do battle and see who will be making it to the Garden to be crowned Hockey East’s 25th tournament champion.  A preview of the Boston University / Maine series will be coming later on, so be on the lookout for that.  However, there are 6 other clubs that will be taking to the ice this weekend!  Let’s take a look at how those teams match up, and try to provide a bit of prediction on who I think will be playing on Causeway St. next weekend.

#2 Northeastern v. #7 Massachusetts

This is probably the one matchup that Northeastern did not want for  quarterfinal series.  The Minutemen currently hold the season series lead on NU, 2-1.  This includes a big win at Matthews that came less than a month ago.  Over the past few season the two clubs have developed some bad blood, playing some very intense games.

Offensively, I would give Masachusetts the edge.  Leading scorer James Marcou is always dangerous, and the top scorers for Massachusetts are very deadly.  That’s not to say Northeastern cannot score, but rather that the Minutemen have more guys at the top who will constantly be a threat.  NU will have to check Marcou, Berry, and Quirk very closely, as those guys can break out quickly.  Massachusetts also has a tendancy to come out big against teams that are in the top 10, with the small discrepency coming only against BU.

What ultimately will determine this series (in my opinion) is goaltending.  There, Northeastern has a very big edge, as Brad Thiessen is an absolute rock in net for the Huskies.  With the intensity ratched up that much more, I would take Thiessen over either of the UMass netminders.  Either Dainton or Meyers will have to steal a game for the Minutemen to win this series.  With the home crowd advantage at Matthews, I’m not sure that will happen.  It might go three games, but it seems to me that Notheastern really wants to get to the Garden for a potential rematch with BU.  As a Terrier fan, I’m not sure I like that idea that much, but in this series anyway, Northeastern takes care of business.

Predicted Winner: Northeastern

#3 New Hampshire v. #6 Boston College

Now this is a huge matchup of perennial Hockey East powerhouses. Of course, BC is currently on a down year, but there is no denying the talent that is on that Eagle squad.  However, they will be making their way up to the Whittemore center, certainly not a visitor friendly rink.  Oh.. and that New Hampshire squad is no slouch either.  Featuring 1st round pick James van Riemsdyk, this looks to be one of the most difficult quarterfinal matchups, with two teams that one could have picked to be playing in the championship game.

Offensively and defensively, the two clubs are virtually identical.  The only thing that separates the two is the record really.  New Hampshire was a much more opportunistic team throughout the season, and it definitely shows in their record.   However, both teams feature an identical 3-1 record in their past 4 games, with the latter two games for each club being against elite teams in Hockey East.  Just looking at the numbers does no good when trying to pick a winner.

In this series, I’d have to go with whatever team takes advantage first.  New Hampshire does have home ice advantage, but against a Jerry York coached team, that might not matter much.  It will likely ride on the goaltender who shuts the door on the other team better.  John Muse has been a workhorse for Boston College, and that might be their downfall here.  He has had little rest over the past two seasons, and UNH’s high powered offense will test him.  This series should go 3 games, as I don’t see a sweep being possible here.  This’ll be my upset series though… BC shocks UNH at home.  Last year, BC beat UNH when it mattered… and I think it’ll happen again.

Predicted Winner: Boston College

#4 Vermont v. #5 UMass-Lowell

The River Hawks travel to the Gut for a two game series this weekend.  Probably one of the most difficult road trips to make in Hockey East.  The Gut is always sold out, and the could should be loud and proud in their support of the Catamounts.

The River Hawks and Catamounts are very similar statistically, which seems like it’s a trend for most Hockey East teams.  The two clubs even split the season series.  My big concern for the Hawks is that they seem to be very unpredictable, playing very very well one night, and laying an egg the next night.  It doesn’t even seem to matter who they play… it all depends on which team comes to play.  A concern for Vermont is that their team defense hasn’t been as good as it’s been in previous years, and if their offense falters, they could be in for a long series.

In the end, it will come down to a matchup between UML’s goaltenders and the UVM offense.  Whichever is hotter should win this game, and I find it very hard to pick against the Cats, especially since they’re playing in Burlington.  The Cats make it back to the Garden, setting up a potential rematch against BU.  Revenge game, anyone?

Predicted Winner: Vermont

There you have it, predictions from three of the four quarterfinal series in Hockey East for 2009.  You heard it here first!  I think, anyway.  In any case, it should be a very entertaining weekend of hockey for all of the participating Hockey East schools.  Unfortunately, it is spring break for several of the schools, but that gives the more casual fan a much better chance to be able to catch one of these games.  So, if you’re looking for something to do this weekend and happen to be near one of the home schools, take a trip on by.  You should be able to catch some great college hockey.

For another perspective, be sure to check out Scott’s Preview and Picks for the 2009 Hockey East Quarterfinals.

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Game 36 Recap: BU 3, Providence 0

At the beginning of the season, no one would have expected the final Hockey East game to be as meaningful as it was.  While Hockey East is always a league that runs wire to wire, the matchup between Boston University and Providence College on Sunday had major implications…. it would determine the Hockey East Regular Season Champion. Read more

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Countdown to Senior Day: Chris Higgins - The Quiet Sparkplug

In 2005, a group of six very talented Freshmen made their way to Boston University. That class has made a major difference in their time at Boston University. As the days towards their final regular season home game approach, Let’s Go Terriers and a few other blogs are going to take a look at their stories, and the impact they have made at BU on the ice. Read more

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Game 34 Recap: BU 7, UMass 2

Following up their impressive come-from behind victory at the Mullins Center Friday night, the Terriers convincingly showed why they are the number 1 team in the nation, scoring 7 consecutive goals en route to a 7-1 victory at Agganis Arena on Saturday night.  6 different Terriers factored in the scoring, showing just how talented this team is from top to bottom. Read more

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Game 33 and 34 Preview: #1 BU v. Massachusetts

It seems all too familiar.  BU is heading to Amherst with the #1 ranking, a huge target on their back.  The last time that happened, UMass managed to stun the Terriers and come away with a 5-1 victory.  A lot has changed since that game, but these two games are definitely not games to look past.  BU has a very favorable schedule to end the regular season, but the road to the end of the regular season goes through UMass.  One could say that BU controls their own destiny despite the fact that they are behind Northeastern by one point in the Hockey East Standings.  So how do these two clubs match up? 

Offensively and defensively, BU holds the edge.  However, UMass is a very prolific scoring team, and it shows in their 2.94 goals per game.  What has doomed the Minutemen in close games are penalties.  Last week, UMass took huge leads against Maine only to nearly give them up with major penalties at the end of the game.  This works out very favorably for BU, since the Terriers feature one of the best power plays in the nation.  After converting just once against a hot Northeastern team last week, BU special teams must feel they are due.  UMass will need to be careful not to draw penalties.  On the flip side, the UMass power play will need to pick up their play.  They are converting at a meager 16.1%, which is good for BU, as they are one of the highest penalized teams in Hockey East.  Personally, if it turns into a special teams game, BU should have no trouble.

Who to Watch Out For

James Marcou - He has quietly built up 40 points this season, good for second in Hockey East, behind Boston University’s Colin Wilson.  He’s been on quite a hot streak recently, racking up 9 points in the last 4 games for his club.  4 of those points come against Northeastern.  Those 4 points represent more than the total goals the Terriers scored last weekend.  How’s that for a dangerous kid?

Alex Berry - A linemate to Marcou, Berry has definitely benefited.  He has already eclipsed his point total in any other season with 25 this year.  If I remember correctly from the Ice Breaker, Berry is extremely fast and will make the defense pay if they get lackadaisical.  Just because Marcou is on the ice at the same time doesn’t mean you can’t pay attention to Berry or he’ll burn you.

Other Considerations

UMass is a very strange team.  They have played teams in the top 5 and have performed very well.  However, it’s the losses to the weaker clubs that have plagued the Minutemen this year.  Sitting just under .500, and in 7th place in Hockey East, Massachusetts has a lot to play for.  The way the league currently stands, these two clubs could potentially play 4 games in just 3 weeks.  That could breed a lot of bad blood. 

It should be a very good college hockey weekend.  The Mullins Center is sure to be crazy on Friday night, and you know that Terrier fans will come out in droves for the game Saturday night at Agganis.  Unfortunately, only one of the games is on TV, since CN8 disbanded.  Regardless, the trip to the Mullins center is one that I will have to make one day.  It will not be this Friday though, as I’ve got to work.  The DVR is set though!  I really wish that NESN would use the HD cameras for college hockey.  It looked great for the Beanpot!

Game time is set for 7:30 pm at Mullins Center on Friday, and at 8pm Saturday at Agganis Arena.  You can catch the BU broadcast online from BU’s official website or on AM 1510.  The Massachusetts broadcast is here, or on 100.9 FM.  Friday night’s tilt will be on NESN, as part of NESN’s Hockey East Fridays.

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