Well, in my first attempt at D-III picks, I went 2-1 (.667), while Russell went 3-0 (1.000). We’ve got the quarterfinal games coming up this weekend; let’s see if I can gain any ground.
Wentworth at Norwich
Candace: This is one of those that makes me rethink my ideas of gambling. Norwich in a waltz.
Russell: Is there even a question about this one? The Cadets in a blitzkrieg.
Gustavus Adolphus at St. Norbert
Candace: Gustavus surprised me in beating Milwaukee School of Engineering, but the defending champs are a cut above MSOE. St. Norbert takes this.
Russell: The key in this game will be Gustavus’ freshman goalie, John McLean. I still see St. Norbert winning, but it will be close.
Elmira at Oswego
Candace: Oswego crushed Elmira twice to open the season, and while Elmira has put together a good run since, I don’t think they have enough to beat the Lakers.
Russell: The Lakers always seem to wake up for the NCAA quarterfinal game. Plus, they are going against a weaker defense than Plattsburgh. Oswego by three.
Plattsburgh at Amherst
Candace: This is the toughest game to pick in the quarters. Amherst is led by Jonathan La Rose in net, while Mike Moher has put up good numbers on offense. Kyle Kudroch counters offensively for Plattsburgh. I’m going against Russell’s pick here and calling for the home team to take a squeaker.
Russell: This will be the lowest scoring game of the playoffs, either 1-0 or 2-1, with maybe some overtimes thrown in. Based on the competition they faced this year, Plattsburgh is the better team and will win.
