Hockey Series Preview: No. 7 Michigan Wolverines at No. 3 Minnesota Golden Gophers

Another weekend, another split (kind of). Michigan again failed to record two wins in a series, this time tying with lowly Arizona State. For whatever reason this team cannot seem to get over the hump, but at least the postseason will be single games as opposed to a series?

The No. 7 Wolverines have maintained their place in the poll despite their lack of dominance, making it increasingly likely that they will earn an at-large berth. That is not a guarantee, however, and with just one regular season game left after this set, this weekend is one of the last opportunities to bolster their resume.

Series Info & How to Watch

Teams: No. 7 Michigan Wolverines (9-8-1-0, 29 pts) at No. 3 Minnesota Golden Gophers (15-5-0-0, 45 pts)
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Game 1: Friday, Mar. 5, 8:00 pm ET — Fox Sports Detroit
Game 2: Saturday, Mar. 6, 5:00 pm ET — Big Ten Network

If Michigan does want to take the decision out of the selection committee’s hands, an impressive showing this weekend will do the trick. The No. 3 Gophers have a good chance of winning the Big Ten and have looked like the team to beat for most of the season. Minnesota swept the series at Yost back in December (though both teams did not have complete rosters).

These games are likely not must-win, but with no further insight into the selection process for the Tournament this year, a win or two over a top-five team could be extremely helpful. Add in the fact that the Big Ten Tournament will be single-elimination, and suddenly things could get dicey with an early exit. At this point Michigan likely is who it is, but there is enough talent to take down any team on any given night.