RPI has to be feeling good after last weekend, going 1-0-1 against an elite team like that. I know I sure am!
This week, Minnesota State, a tough test for RPI, they don't do well against WCHA teams but I think the lads might be feeling a little pumped up after last weekend and can certainly split the series, maybe even take it. At this early stage in the season with so many underclassmen at the forward positions, it really comes down to the veteran D and the goaltenders to help RPI through this weekend.
I have railed against SA's choices of rotating goalies over the years but I didn't realize until last weekend through WRPI's interview with him that this was what gave the University of Denver its success while SA was there. Still, with 3 goaltenders on the roster, I have a sneaking suspicion SA will be rotation heavy again. Whether that strategy serves the team in the long run or not, I am not sure.
I think RPI will split the weekend since its the first away series for such a young team but still if RPI can start the season 2-1-1 against these teams, I see a bright season ahead for them.
As always, here are USCHO's picks:
Rensselaer at Minnesota State 7:37 pm CT
Brian: 1-0-1? How’s that strike you, Engineers fans? Believe it or not, it has been six years since the ‘Tute made it to Game 3 without a loss (2006-07, also 1-0-1). Next up is a taxing road trip to Mankato, where the home side is also 1-0-1 after a double-dip at Alabama-Huntsville. RPI may have played a tougher opponent, but those games were in Troy. This is a whole new ball o’ wax. I’m taking MSU-M in the opener, 3-2 Mavericks.
Brian: 1-0-1? How’s that strike you, Engineers fans? Believe it or not, it has been six years since the ‘Tute made it to Game 3 without a loss (2006-07, also 1-0-1). Next up is a taxing road trip to Mankato, where the home side is also 1-0-1 after a double-dip at Alabama-Huntsville. RPI may have played a tougher opponent, but those games were in Troy. This is a whole new ball o’ wax. I’m taking MSU-M in the opener, 3-2 Mavericks.
Nate: Not much more to add to Brian’s insight. These two met for the time ever last season, splitting a series in Troy. Think that’s the same here, with the hosts taking the opener. Minnesota State 3-2.
Read more: http://www.uscho.com/ecac-blog/2012/10/18/ecac-hockey-picks-week-3-2/#ixzz29krx1abZ
Rensselaer at Minnesota State 7:07 pm CT
Brian: I’m tempted to pick the Mavs again – home-ice advantage and all – but I’m going to put a little mostly blind faith in RPI to step it up a level and improve to 2-1-1 (or better). 3-2 Engineers.
Brian: I’m tempted to pick the Mavs again – home-ice advantage and all – but I’m going to put a little mostly blind faith in RPI to step it up a level and improve to 2-1-1 (or better). 3-2 Engineers.
Nate: Engineers should sneak home with a win Saturday night.RPI 3-1.
Read more: http://www.uscho.com/ecac-blog/2012/10/18/ecac-hockey-picks-week-3-2/#ixzz29ks2mc3P
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