As we reach mid-November, I feel like I am settling into this new role with USCHO. However, after having a strong first couple of weeks with my picks, I hit a wall last week with Michigan Tech’s loss to Minnesota State on Saturday, and, even worse, my pick of Lake Superior State to sweep Bemidji State. Oh, there was a sweep alright, but it went in favor of the Beavers.
Daver last week: 4-6-2
Jack last week: 5-5-2
Daver this season: 21-11-3
Jack this season: 34-24-6
On to the action:
Bemidji State at Ferris State
The Beavers come into this weekend having posted 12 goals last weekend at home against Lake Superior State. Adam Brady had a huge weekend with three goals as part of that offensive outburst for the hosts. The Bulldogs had a rough weekend last weekend against Western Michigan, giving up 12 goals on the weekend.
Daver: BSU sweeps 4-1, 4-1
Jack: BSU sweeps 4-1, 5-3
Michigan Tech at Lake Superior State
The Huskies played arguably their best game of the season last Saturday in a 2-1 loss to Minnesota State. Freshman goaltender Blake Pietila made six stops on six shots Friday night in relief of junior Robbie Beydoun. Getting the chance to start Saturday, Pietila held the Mavericks to two goals in a 2-1 loss. The Lakers are still looking to get back on the winning track after a tough start to the season.
Daver: MTU Friday 3-1, LSSU Saturday 3-2
Jack: LSSU Friday 3-1, MTU Saturday 2-1
Alaska at Northern Michigan
The Nanooks have been the surprise of the WCHA in the early going. Splitting last weekend with Arizona State, they have proven to not be intimidated by the skill level of their opponents week in and week out. The Wildcats’ Griffin Loughran was held to just one goal last weekend in a tie and loss against St. Cloud State. The sophomore is off to a great start with the Wildcats with nine goals on the season.
Daver: UAF Friday 2-1, NMU Saturday 4-2
Jack: UAF Friday 3-2, NMU Saturday 5-3
Bowling Green at Alaska Anchorage
The Falcons come into this weekend after having a week off following a split with the Mavericks. While they have gotten off to a strong start, the trip north can take its toll. The Seawolves come into the weekend having taken five of six points from Alabama Huntsville on the road. They are going to need more goals from junior Trey deGraaf, who scored twice in Saturday’s 3-1 win, if they want to make a statement this weekend.
Daver: BGSU sweeps 3-1, 2-1
Jack: BGSU sweeps 3-1, 4-2
