A Closer Look at the East Regional - Yale, Union, MN-Duluth, Air Force
Boston College
The Eagles are poised to repeat as National Champions - something that hasn't happened since Denver did it in 2003 & 2004. Averaging 3.92 goals a game, they are lead by Hobey Baker Finalist, Cam Atkinson and his 30 goals and 51 points in 38 games with senior Brian Gibbons right behind him with 50 points. They are bolstered by excellent special teams (24% on the PP, 87% on the PK), a stellar defense (both offensively and defensively) and a goaltender in John Muse who has an 8-0 record in the NCAA tournament.
BC has been hot going into the post-season (15-1-1) and look to have sophomore Chris Kreider back from a broken jaw as well. Can the Eagles make it back to the Frozen Four for the fifth time in six years?
Michigan
The Wolverines have a propensity for fizzling in the post-season and their CCHA semifinal loss to Western Michigan didn't help matters. While they have depth up front, their defense hasn't been as consistent. They're a scrappy bunch who like to play a hard-nosed, grind-it-out style of play that ends up being a massive game of keep away, but they have a hard time adjusting their game plan on the fly, which is interesting because they are also known for their speed. Michigan has a plethora of weapons at their disposal, it's just a matter of knowing when to use them.
The Michigan seniors committed themselves to playoff success this season and starting a new tradition of excellence…one that includes the post-season. Is this the year they finally make it past the first round?
Nebraska-Omaha
The Mavericks faltered in their first WCHA playoff round, but they still managed to earn an at-large bid for their second trip to the NCAA tournament in the program's history. This regional will be a battle for the Mavericks who don't really excel at any one aspect, but are consistent across the board. They are lead by one of the best coaches in the country and this year's WCHA Coach of the Year, Dean Blais, who has had two weeks to prepare him team and lay the foundation for perennial success.
Nebraksa-Omaha is looking to make a statement on the national landscape. Can they make a name for themselves in St Louis?
Colorado College
The Tigers are another team looking to make their mark on the national landscape, but have struggled with consistency. Not surprising considering how heavily they have relied on their freshmen class, in particular Jaden Schwartz who has 42 points in 28 games, for offensive support. They've also found a lot of success on the power play (ranked 10th in the country), but have been burned for 11 shorthanded goals against (tied for 1st in the country). That's not good considering their first round opponent, BC, has scored 13 shorthanded goals so far this season.
CC will have to put forth their best effort if they want to upset the defending National Champions. While they might be able to skate with them 5-on-5, can they keep it together on special teams to get it done?
Friday, March 25, 2011
Game 1: Michigan v. Nebraska-Omaha - 5:30pm ET - Live on ESPN3.com/Delayed on ESPNU
Game 2: Boston College v. Colorado College - 9pm ET - Live on ESPNU/ESPN3.com
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Regional Final: 9pm ET - Live on ESPNU/ESPN3.com
Julie
[email protected]
@JulieRobenhymer
Facebook
Join the Discussion:
»