Four teams are back on the ice this weekend with games spanning from Thursday through Sunday so there’s plenty of action to enjoy. The conference’s two dominant teams, Michigan State and Wisconsin, are playing in tournaments this weekend and will look to capitalize on the opportunity to show the rest of the country that they are contenders. Ohio State has their second part of a home-and-home from earlier in the year with Mercyhurst and Notre Dame plays a two-game series against newly-promoted Augustana.

Nothing lasts forever and such was the case with my perfect streak. But going 4-2, especially with some close games (and Ohio State finally winning), isn’t too shabby. I’ve done well in non-conference games in the past so hopefully that continues.

Last week’s results: 4-2 Season Total: 66-24

Michigan State vs. Ferris State and Michigan Tech/Alaska

None of the other teams in this year’s Great Lakes Invitational are on the same level as Michigan State, but Alaska is probably their biggest threat to steal their championship. The Spartans should cruise past Ferris State on Thursday and will play a much closer game against the winner of Michigan Tech vs. Alaska. Prediction: MSU 2-0 and Great Lakes Invitational Champs

Wisconsin vs. Air Force and Northeastern/Minnesota-Duluth

Like Michigan State, Wisconsin is the clear favorite in this tournament. Air Force could give them trouble early with their up-tempo style of play, but this is not the same Air Force team of years past. The Badgers should settle in and control the game. Their opponent in the championship will likely be UMD, but Wisconsin will handle them as well. Prediction: Wisconsin 2-0 and Holiday Face-Off Champs

Mercyhurst at Ohio State

The Buckeyes turned some heads in their last series by playing competitive games against Minnesota and coming away with a win. They are 5-0-2 in non-conference games, including a win against Mercyhurst in the first game of the season. That trend continues on Saturday as the Bucks take care of the Lakers. Prediction: OSU 1-0

Augustana at Notre Dame

The Vikings are still finding their way in Division I and their up-and-down play is proof of that. Combine that with Notre Dame not being an elite team and this should be a competitive matchup. I think Notre Dame is the better team, but not enough separation to win both games. Prediction: Split 1-1