The No. 4 Minnesota Golden Gophers swept the Wisconsin Badgers men’s hockey team on January 31st and February 1st, collecting their 187th series win.
This border battle series had much more at stake for both teams than writing a win or loss in the stat book. These two Big Ten teams have been rivals since the early 1900s and are always eager to dominate the other.
With the No. 4 Gophers’ home-ice advantage, the stretch proved tough for the Badgers. The Gophers have a strong offense, averaging four goals a game. However, the Badgers had some momentum after a strong series against another Big Ten rival, the Michigan Wolverines.
Unfortunately, the Badgers lost both games by three goals, demonstrating the tough offense of the Gophers. But, in the second game, the score remained 0-0 until the third period, showing the tenacity of the Badgers. Wisconsin freshman Ryan Botterill picked up his third goal of the season, scoring first in the second game. The Badgers also had power play opportunities but ultimately went 0-3 in those.
Overall, the Gophers top the Badgers as the total series record is 187-103-25.
Earlier in the season, the Badgers also lost back-to-back games against the Gophers. The Badgers are typically the underdogs in this series but the fact that the Gophers had home-field advantage and are on an offensive tear should be taken into account.
The Badgers are currently ranked No. 19, but they have multiple Big Ten matchups coming up where they can make a statement and fight their way in to make the playoffs.
