As of publication, we are just two days away from Big Ten hockey action, with six of the seven teams playing this weekend. While there are no conference matchups on tap, there is still a lot of intrigue within the first slate of games. Let me know what picks you agree with (and don’t) in the comments.

Providence at Michigan

The Wolverines head into action this weekend looking to build off of their Frozen Four appearance last April, but will have to do so without some stand-outs that headlined last year’s team. The Friars of Providence were a middle-of-the-road team last year and will likely have similar results this season. This two-game series should be an easy transition into regular season play for Michigan who should look the part of a dominant team. Prediction: Michigan 2-0

Lake Superior St. at Michigan State

This is the most intriguing matchup of the weekend. Even though it the first of the season, this will be a measuring-stick type of series for the Spartans – are they finally going to turn the corner as many think or can we expect more of the same from them? The Lakers had a dismal season last year and should be improved this year (certainly hard to get worse), but Michigan State should still take care of business. I’m not sold on them as a contender in the Big Ten, but look for them to take care of business this weekend. Prediction: MSU 2-0

Clarkson at Notre Dame

After a disappointing (by their standards) season last year, Notre Dame is looking to reclaim their clout as national contender and will start the year against Clarkson. The Golden Knights couldn’t overcome a slow start last year and finished in the middle of the ECAC. This should be a fairly even matchup with Notre Dame having a slight edge, but I don’t think it’s enough to pull off the sweep. Prediction: Split 1-1

Ohio State at Mercyhurst

This is the first game of a split home-and-home between these two schools. In years past, Ohio State has started strong with the non-conference portion of their schedule. With Mercyhurst destined to be a bottom feeder in their conference again this year, I think the Buckeyes’ trend will continue. Prediction: OSU 1-0

Penn State at Long Island University

After enjoying some success in the late 2010s, Penn State has struggled to get back to the top in recent years. Playing a one-game series against Long Island University, though, may be just what the doctor ordered to start their quest this year. Since joining the Div. I ranks in the ’20-’21 season, the Sharks have yet to find success or a home, remaining both conference-less and largely irrelevant in the national picture. I don’t think they’ll dominate but the Lions take care of the Sharks. Prediction: PSU 1-0

Augustana at Wisconsin

Welcome to the Big Leagues, Augustana! This will be the inaugural season for the Vikings in Div. I and drawing Wisconsin as their first matchup is about the best that can happen for them. The Badgers come into the season as one of the youngest teams, and with a new coach, they’re kind of an unknown. This matchup is a toss-up, but I’ve been bullish on Wisconsin as of late so I’ll take them to win one handily and lose a close one. Prediction: Split 1-1