They've been doing little interviews with the Gopher players between periods, one per game or so. Every one I've seen (including Barriball tonight), when asked what team do they enjoy playing the most, said North Dakota. Although the Badgers are by far our biggest rival in other sports, the Sioux have to be our biggest rival in hockey.
As for the Gophers play right now, very impressive weekend. The 2 shots that beat Kangas tonight were tough shots, no problems there. The team played really well and pulled through when it counted the most. Unlike last year, this team dominates 3rd periods, doesn't come out and fold. Barriball has looked great in these last 2 games back, looks totally healthy along with Carman.
Schroeder/Stoa/Barriball is going to be the key to these games. If you guys control them and make other people do the scoring, 3 or 4 points for the Sioux isn't out of the question I don't think. If those guys are on the ice a lot on the PP or you let them work the puck around a lot, they're going to light up the scoreboard.
Going to be great having everyone healthy for both squads (I think?), no excuses!!
My predictions:
Friday
MINNESOTA 4
NORTH DAKOTA 1
Saturday
MINNESOTA 5
NORTH DAKOTA 4