It really feels like hockey season now. The WCHA schedule is finally in full swing and we have a full slate of games each Friday and Saturday for the rest of the season.

Here’s what I learned this weekend:

1. Michael Bitzer is pretty good. Ok, we already knew the Bemidji State goalie was one of the best in the NCAA. But after back-to-back shutouts against Northern Michigan he deserves the recognition. Bitzer improved to 4-0 this season with the back-to-back wins and the Beavers are in a nice spot on top of the WCHA standings.

2. Overtime is fun, especially when it’s 3-on-3 hockey. Western Michigan and Bowling Green played a 3-on-3 session in non-conference play while Michigan Tech beat Alabama Huntsville in WCHA play in 3-on-3. It’s fun to watch, why don’t we just embrace it in the standings instead of officially calling it a tie?

3. Lake Superior State waited a bit before opening the season, but 13 goals in a sweep against Michigan State certainly won’t hurt the morale for the Lakers. The Lakers head south to Alabama Huntsville this week and will look to keep their offense rolling.