GOPHER FREAK

Congrats Sioux! I was actively pulling against you and will continue to do so next weekend, but you earned it this weekend. Nicely done.

You are very wise. That's pretty much exactly how I see this game. NHL ice and last change, Make this a much closer game than it would be at say a World Arena or some place with Olympic ice. I think the Sioux might be the best team in the country on Olympic ice, When the DOT line has time a space to be dangerous. That said, Michigan is not a team I would want to play on NHL ice as a skating team, Which I believe the Sioux are even more so than the Gophers. The longer this game is scoreless or low scoring, The better chance Michigan has of winning (that goes for AFA as well).

You will need a good game to beat them. They are a dangerous 2 seed. Having the last change will really help them *try* and contain the DOT line.

I'm a big fan of multiple overtimes. 9 or so would be good. No seriously, I really don't care who the gophers *could* play. I'm going to concentrate on AFA for right now. The Sioux have a very tough first game as well. Really UND/Michigan would not shock anyone no matter which way it went. Good Luck until you cross paths with the Gophers again.

In NCAA play the higher seed always gets the early game, For the added benefit of a few hours of rest.

I believe that too a degree. However, Sometimes when you have been as hot as the Sioux it only takes one loss to cool you off. I curious how Sioux fans see it, As a case can be made for both.

While I agree Minnesota did employ a defensive style to shut down the DOT line, They did outshoot UND nearly 2-1, So it's not exactly like they were totally defensive. Personally I think it's pretty strange, But I think the Gophs are better suited to the NHL rink than the Sioux. Minnesota has lost one game this season on NHL ice.

The always remove the logo at any arena during NCAA events. The was no M at Minnesota last year, Just an NCAA symbol. The actually cover the advertisements on the scoreboard and boards too.