The most notable takeaway from the quarterfinals weekend was Minnesota-Duluth’s upset of Bemidji State. That’s likely the end of the road for the Beavers who won’t catch Princeton in the PairWise Rankings. It’s a disappointing finish for a solid senior class.
Wisconsin vs. Minnesota-Duluth
Overview:
The Bulldogs don’t seem to stand much chance in this series, but they struggled versus Bemidji State during the regular season too and pulled that one off. It’s one game, and anything can happen.
Keys to the Series:
Wisconsin:
Keep up the formula that has brought them so much success.
Minnesota-Duluth:
Get great goaltending.
The X-Factor:
Ann-Renee Desbiens. Kayla Black is a solid goaltender, but Desbiens tops all comers.
Prediction:
Wisconsin 4-0
Minnesota vs. North Dakota
Overview:
North Dakota did something no one else did, they beat both Minnesota and Wisconsin. They’ll need to do it again if they want to have any hope of making the NCAA tournament. A string of bad late season losses sank their PairWise Ranking.
Keys to the Series:
Minnesota:
Get on the board early. If they let Amsley-Benzie get on a roll they could find themselves knocked out.
North Dakota:
Take advantage of Minnesota’s weaknesses, namely the penalty kill.
The X-Factor:
Amy Menke and Becca Kohler. The North Dakota pair are tied for the lead in playoff scoring with 11 points.
Prediction:
Minnesota 2-1
The Finals
Why Wisconsin will win:
They’re the most complete team in the conference with virtually no weaknesses.
Why Wisconsin won’t win:
Minnesota has more offensive firepower.
Why Minnesota will win:
They can outscore anyone.
Why Minnesota won’t win:
Their goaltending and penalty kill can be had.
Why North Dakota will win:
They step up against top competition.
Why North Dakota won’t win:
They’re too inconsistent.
Why Minnesota-Duluth will win:
They get great goaltending.
Why Minnesota-Duluth won’t win:
They’re simply not good enough.
Title IX Hockey 