Reparations and Predictions (2/29)

What's going on, everybody? I hope you're all having a good Friday.

So on the eve of Inside Lacrosse's Konica Minolta Face-Off Classic. The Jman wanted to get his weekend picks posted up as well as a few reparations for the last few weeks of lacrosse.

Let's start with the reparations:

Maryland @ Georgetown: I think we all knew that the Terps had an incredible stable of young attackmen coming in this year and I think that we all expect big things from them. Did I expect so much so fast? Not at all, so that one's on me. I also expected a lot more out of the Georgetown middies.

Hofstra @ UMass: Despite a player depletion due to misconduct, the Minutemen found a way to spread out the wealth as they were able to maintain control of the game after jumping out 5-1 in the 1st half.

UMBC @ Rutgers: Despite a tough loss prior, I expected a lot more out of the Retrievers. If they aren't able to get their heads straight, it's going to be a LONG season for Zim and the boys.

Drexel @ UPenn: The strongest 4th quarter team will win . . . every time. Look at the UPenn coaching staff and you'll see guys who KNOW this. Hopefully they can convey this vital fact to their team.

For the record and anyone that's keeping score, the Jman is 24-10 since the start of the season. *That's a % that any starting goalie or face off guy would love to have* But enough of dwelling on the past.

So The Pretty Boy and Johnny J are posting their staff picks on the IL Blogs site, and the Jman has decided to crash the party.

http://blogs.insidelacrosse.com/2008/02/28/il-staff-pick-em-week-two/

**WARNING: Kids don't try this at home. When you tangle with the big boys, you run this risk of injury, slander, carpel-tunnel symdrome, law-suit, public mockery, turf toe and late night calls from Inside Lacrosse HQ with everyone laughing at you in the background. Ground Rules: No touching of the hair or face. . . . . And that's it. Now let's do this!**

Face-Off Classic:

Virginia vs Syracuse:

I do love shoot-outs! Lack of help from Nims and Hardy will leave the Wahoo D capable of shutting down Mike Leveille and the Orange O. As the UVA midfield continues to gel, the match up problems only become more of an issue.

Edge: Virgina

Hopkins vs Princeton:

What hasn't already been said about the Bluejays? Despite a well disciplined and dangerous Princeton defense. It's pick your poison. Rabil, Peyser, Huntley, Boyle, Kimmel, . . . you know what? I'm tired of typing, but you get the idea.

Edge: Hopkins

Albany vs Notre Dame:

I've been on Terry's Albany train the whole time. Go Danes.

Edge: Albany

*On a side note, Albany Asst Coach John Svec and his family go way back with mine. Gotta show some Broadneck love!*

Maryland vs Duke:

Despite the above mentioned Maryland reparations, the Terps defense is going to get a face full of the nation's best offense. The game last week against the Hoyas just won't have been enough of a tune-up.

Edge: Duke

Dartmouth vs Fairfield:

After struggling against Providence, I don't think the Stags will have enough to outlast the Big Green

Edge: Dartmouth

Cornell vs Carolina:

John Haus will be looking for any sign from Cornell that they are still feeling the effects of a tough game last week against the Mids, and extort it.. I think that a smart and experienced Carolina attack will lead the Tar Heels past Max and the Big Red. If Cornell looks to deny them the ball, the Carolina midfield is more than capable of getting it done.

Edge: North Carolina

Denver vs Towson:

Terry drives the Denver bus, I'm asleep in the back. (I'm hungry. Are we there yet? Tell Quint to stay on his side!) Coach Munro has done a great job recruiting talented athletic players who like to play an up tempo style. If you want to beat them, you better be ready to let it out.

Edge: Denver

I hope everyone has a great weekend. For those of you able to get to the Face-Off Classic, have a cold one for me.

I'll see you guys on the field.

-the Jman