Game #12 Preview: #8 BU vs Holy Cross

The Terriers took a huge hit in the polls this week after dropping two decisions to Vermont last weekend, falling from #2 down to #8.  They look to get things started again with an out of conference matchup against Atlantic Hockey member Holy Cross.  This should be an easy game that might turn out to be a trap game.  Let’s see how the two teams match up:

Holy Cross comes into Agganis Arena with a record of 3-7-1.  They’re scoring about 2 goals per game while giving up 3.5.  This is very favorable to BU in terms of the offense, as the Terriers are averaging 4 goals per game, while giving up a little more than two.  On paper, that would seem to be a victory for BU already.  BU also holds the edge on special teams, converting at a much higher rate on the PP, and killing penalties at a higher percentage as well.  However, as we saw last week against UVM, stats don’t mean everything.  I’m sure that Holy Cross will have watched game film of the BU / UVM series, and will look to capitalize on the strategies of the Catamounts.

Who to Look Out For

Brodie Sheahan - The Crusaders’ leading scorer, he is currently averaging a point a game.  With 4 goals, 7 assists, along with an even rating, you can tell that the Crusaders don’t make too many mistakes with Sheahan on the ice, playing even hockey.

Adam Roy - Likely the starting goaltender for the Crusaders, his numbers are not spectacular, but decent.  The Terriers need to be careful about making Roy look as good as Madore or Spillane from last week.  Putting a lot of pucks into his big frame (he’s 6′ 1″) will result in a long night for BU

Other Considerations

Holy Cross is not a team of superstars by any means.  However, teams like this tend to be grittier, and play much harder than a team that is trying to be too flashy with all their stars, as BU has tended to do this year.  While I anticipate an easy win, BU must be careful not to fall into the trap game.  The middle will likely be clogged up for the next few games, as it was very effective against BU for Vermont.  The Terriers need to come out with a bang, and be ready to score in bunches to build up their confidence and start another run.  Boston College is just one weekend away, and with Super Brock Bradford waiting, the Terriers will need all their guns blazing.

Game time is set for 7pm @ Agganis Arena.  You can catch the BU broadcast online from BU’s official website or on AM 1510.  Holy Cross’ broadcast is on WCHC 88.1 FM.

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