Ohio State at Penn State

Drew: This series is the middle of a three-week stretch where Penn State needs to pick up some points in order to have a shot at capturing the regular-season title and/or a first-round bye. The Nittany Lions took five of six conference points on the road last weekend at Michigan State; they probably wanted all six but getting five on the road isn’t anything to scoff at. Ohio State dropped a couple more one-goal games to Minnesota last weekend at home. The Buckeyes have consistently shown that they can play with anyone this year, but struggle mightily at sealing the deal.

Paula: This is the last home weekend for Penn State’s seniors, and for that reason alone I see the Nittany Lions picking up at least five points against an Ohio State team that is tougher than most people realize. This is PSU’s first graduating class; I can’t imagine the adrenaline in that locker room this weekend. These teams also split a series this season, less than a month ago in Columbus. The Nittany Lions won in overtime Jan. 22, 3-2, and the Buckeyes won the following night, 5-1. Ohio State certainly has the potential to pick up points this weekend, but I’m not sure it’s up to the Buckeyes. Friday’s game begins at 6:30 and is the early game on BTN. Saturday’s game starts at 3:00 p.m. and is carried by ESPNU.

Drew’s picks: Penn State 4-3, 3-1.
Paula’s picks: Penn State 3-2, 4-1.

Source: USCHO.com Blogs :: Big Ten Blog :: U.S. College Hockey Online