Last Week: 8-5-1
On the Season: 98-37-15 (.703)
This Week’s Picks:
Friday, Jan. 6 and Saturday, Jan. 7
Canisius at Army -The Black knight played well at the UConn tournament last week, knocking off RPI. I think they translate that into at least a split. Army is 4-0-1 in the last five meetings between the teams at Tate Rink. Army 3, Canisius 2; Canisius 3, Army 1.
Robert Morris at Bentley – This will be a case of a potent RMU offense against a stingy (in league play at least) Bentley defense. This is Robert Morris’ first trip to the JAR since joining Atlantic Hockey – it last played there in 2005. I’m thinking split again. Bentley 3, RMU 1; RMU 4, Bentey 2.
Air Force at Holy Cross – This should be the most entertaining series of the weekend. Both teams are coming off losses to ranked teams and this series will go a long way in shaping the top of the standings. Air Force has had the Crusaders number, holding a 10-1-5 record against them since joining the AHA. I’m picking another split. Air Force 3, Holy Cross 2; Holy Cross 4, Air Force 3.
Niagara at Connecticut – The Huskies trail the Purple Eagles by two points in the standings. The teams split last season in Niagara Falls, and I expect the same this year. UConn 3, Niagara 2; Niagara 4, UConn 3.
Sacred Heart at Merychurst – The Pioneers lead the all-time series 19-15-5 but I think the Lakers will make that closer with a home sweep. Mercyhurst 4, Sacred Heart 2; Mercyhurst 6, Sacred Heart 4.
Rochester Institute of Technology at Wisconsin – This is a rematch of the 2010 national semifinals, easily won by Wisconsin 8-1. RIT is coming off two impressive wins against ranked teams. But both those games were played at a neutral site, and I think the home ice advantage will carry the Badgers. Wisconsin 3, RIT 1; Wisconsin 5, RIT 2
Tuesday, Jan. 10
American International at Rensselaer – These teams are a combined 6-29-2, but I think RPI needs this one more than the Yellow Jackets, and will prevail at home. RPI 2, AIC 1.
Take Me On
Feel free to chime in by posting your picks in the comments.
