We’re deep into conference play at this point and the teams are starting to separate themselves. This week features the new powers (Michigan State and Wisconsin) against the old guard (Minnesota and Michigan) and then an intriguing matchup for all the wrong reasons between Penn State and Ohio State. 

Conference play continues to trip me up a little and I’m afraid of what this week will bring with such good matchups. As always, let me know what picks you like and which ones you don’t. 

Last week’s results: 4-2 Season Total: 91-29

Minnesota vs Michigan State

The Spartans host the Gophers this week and try to hold on to the separation from Wisconsin they created last week. Minnesota is coming off a sweep of Ohio State and are winners of five straight so momentum will be on their side. Michigan State is the better team, but I don’t think they know how to handle success… yet. Look for a split here and some really good hockey. Prediction: Split 1-1

Ohio State at Penn State

With a sweep of Penn State, the Buckeyes could climb out of last place in the standings for the first time. These teams matchup well on paper and, despite a sweep at the hands of Minnesota last weekend, Ohio State seems to be improving, albeit slightly, as the season goes. The Nittany Lions do not. I think Ohio State comes away with at least one victory, so I’m gonna go for it. Prediction: Ohio State 2-0

Wisconsin at Michigan

This is the matchup that I’m most excited for this week. Despite where they sit in the standings, it feels like Michigan is starting to develop into a great team. Wisconsin already has. The Badgers swept the Wolverines in early November in Madison, but that was a different Michigan team. This will be a real measuring-stick type series for both programs. Prediction: Split 1-1