We’re back after a brief hiatus and just in time for the final stretch of the regular season. With just two weeks left in the season, each game becomes critical for tournament seeding and that all-important first-round bye. Currently Michigan State holds the top spot, but it’s not buttoned up for them yet. A strong showing against Ohio State this weekend will go a long way towards getting a week of rest.

The teams are starting to separate themselves so this should get easier, but then a team like the Buckeyes goes out and does the unimaginable by sweeping Wisconsin last week. It just makes you want to throw your hands in the air and walk away, but then you’d miss some great hockey. As always, let me know what picks you like and which ones you don’t.

Last week’s results: 4-2 Season Total: 95-31

Ohio State at Michigan State

Michigan State is riding a three-game win streak and doesn’t look to be slowing down any time soon. With a clinching-scenario in play (depending on how Wisconsin fares), the Spartans have plenty to play for in front of their home crowd. The Buckeyes are also riding high with their first sweep in conference play, but that should only be viewed as a fluke. Expect them to go back to their losing ways this weekend. Prediction: MSU 2-0

Wisconsin at Penn State

The Badgers are in desperate need of a huge bounce-back after an inexplicable sweep at the hands of Ohio State last weekend. The Nittany Lions provide just the opportunity they need. With Penn State’s struggles in conference play, the Badgers should handle this easily, but they’re a young team that hasn’t learned how to act like a good team yet so anything is in play in this one. Look for first-year coach Mike Hastings to regroup the troops and put the pressure on the Spartans in the standings. Prediction: Wisconsin 2-0

Notre Dame at Michigan

The Irish travel north to Ann Arbor for their final series of the regular season. Despite a roller coaster of a season, Notre Dame currently sits in fourth place in the standings (helped by two extra games played), but Michigan is close behind and would love nothing more than to take that last home-ice advantage spot in the tournament. The Wolverines score a lot, but also give up a lot of goals, and Notre Dame defends well so this will be strength against strength. Look for close, high-scoring games with each team taking a win. Prediction: Split 1-1