The wait is over – it’s time for another season of college hockey! The Big Ten has four teams in action this weekend: Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Penn State.

The fresh season also means a fresh slate for me. As always, let me know what picks you like and don’t like and be sure to follow each week to see how we do.

Last week’s results: 0-0 Season Total: 0-0

Mercyhurst at Michigan

The Wolverines open their 2025-26 campaign at home where they are always a tough out. This will mark the first time the Wolverines and the Lakers have met since the 2015-16 season. Michigan has never lost in regulation to the Lakers.

The Maize and Blue seem to always start the season well and, against an inferior opponent, that trend should continue. Look for some sluggish play as is typical in the early season, but the Wolverines should have no issue dispatching the Lakers both nights. Prediction: Michigan 2-0

Michigan Tech at Minnesota

Minnesota also opens the season at home, but they have a tougher opponent in Michigan Tech. Fresh off their regular season championship, the Gophers return quite a few key players this year. The Huskies, on the other hand, are loaded with young, untested players, which could lead to trouble early in the season.

I don’t see many scenarios where Minnesota has trouble this weekend. Look for a relatively close one Friday, but a borderline blowout Saturday as these teams figure each other out. Prediction: Minnesota 2-0

Wisconsin at Lindenwood

Wisconsin takes to the road to open their season with a matchup against the Lions of Lindenwood University. This marks just the fourth season of Division I hockey for Lindenwood, but they have shown improvement each year.

Last year, these teams split opening weekend in Madison. I think that was more of a testament to Wisconsin’s unpreparedness than Lindenwood’s talent and don’t see that happening again. Lindenwood may not win many games, but they always seem to play tough, gritty hockey. Look for two close games, but the Badgers ultimately winning both. Prediction: Wisconsin 2-0

Penn State at Arizona State

No tune-up games to start the season for Penn State this year. They go on the road to Tempe to face a talented Arizona State team. Of the four matchups, this one is the most intriguing as both teams have legitimate tournament aspirations.

It’s usually tough to travel multiple time zones and come out firing, especially when it’s the first week of the season. I think that will play a big role in Friday’s contest, but Saturday should more closely resemble what we can expect to see the rest of the season. These are two good, evenly-matched teams and I think the series outcome will reflect that. Prediction: Split 1-1