The world of college hockey is always abuzz with excitement, and one of the most anticipated match-ups of the season is the rivalry between the University of Minnesota and Boston University. These two powerhouses have a long and storied history, with a rivalry that spans decades and has produced some of the most thrilling games in college hockey history.
For fans of both teams, the rivalry is about more than just the game itself – it's about pride, tradition, and the desire to come out on top. The University of Minnesota, with its rich hockey history and passionate fan base, is always looking to assert its dominance over its opponents. Meanwhile, Boston University, with its own proud tradition of producing talented players and championship teams, is always looking to prove itself as a force to be reckoned with.
Over the years, the rivalry between Minnesota and Boston University has produced some truly unforgettable moments. Who can forget the epic battles between the two teams in the 1970s, when players like Mike Antonovich and Mike Ramsey were leading the charge for the Gophers? Or the thrilling Frozen Four match-ups of the 1990s, when Boston University's Tony Amonte and Minnesota's Brian Bonin were among the stars of the show?
History of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Minnesota and Boston University dates back to the 1950s, when both teams were competing in the NCAA Tournament. Over the years, the two teams have met on numerous occasions, with Minnesota holding a slight edge in the overall series. However, Boston University has had its share of victories, including a thrilling 4-3 win over the Gophers in the 1991 NCAA semifinals.
One of the most memorable moments in the rivalry came in 2003, when Minnesota and Boston University met in the NCAA championship game. The Gophers came out on top, winning 4-3 in a thrilling contest that will be remembered for years to come. However, the Terriers got their revenge in 2009, when they defeated Minnesota 5-4 in a shootout at the Beanpot Tournament.
Rivalry by the Numbers
- Minnesota leads the all-time series 14-12-3
- The two teams have met 29 times in the NCAA Tournament
- Boston University has won 3 of the last 5 meetings between the two teams
- The Gophers have outscored the Terriers 104-94 in the all-time series
Why the Rivalry Matters
For fans of both teams, the rivalry between Minnesota and Boston University is about more than just the game itself. It's about pride, tradition, and the desire to come out on top. The two teams have a long and storied history, with a rivalry that spans decades and has produced some of the most thrilling games in college hockey history.
The rivalry also has a significant impact on the college hockey landscape. Both teams are consistently ranked among the top programs in the country, and their match-ups are always highly anticipated events. The rivalry also has a significant impact on recruiting, with top players from around the country eager to join one of these two powerhouse programs.
Key Players to Watch
- Minnesota: Jack LaFontaine (G), Ben Meyers (F), Sammy Walker (F)
- Boston University: Alex Vlasic (D), Trevor Zegras (F), Shane Bowers (F)
Looking Ahead to the Future
As the rivalry between Minnesota and Boston University continues to grow, fans of both teams can look forward to many more thrilling match-ups in the years to come. With both teams consistently ranked among the top programs in the country, the rivalry is sure to remain one of the most intense and exciting in college hockey.
Whether you're a fan of the Gophers or the Terriers, one thing is certain – the rivalry between Minnesota and Boston University is here to stay. So grab your gear, get ready to cheer on your favorite team, and enjoy the ride!
What is the history of the rivalry between Minnesota and Boston University?
+The rivalry between Minnesota and Boston University dates back to the 1950s, when both teams were competing in the NCAA Tournament.
Who are some of the key players to watch in the rivalry?
+Some of the key players to watch include Minnesota's Jack LaFontaine, Ben Meyers, and Sammy Walker, as well as Boston University's Alex Vlasic, Trevor Zegras, and Shane Bowers.
What is the current state of the rivalry?
+The rivalry between Minnesota and Boston University is as strong as ever, with both teams consistently ranked among the top programs in the country.