Despite the 2-0 loss to Union last weekend, Cornell goaltender Matt Underhill is top notch. Chris Gartman got the nod against Rensselaer and posted a victory, but Underhill's experience may edge him out for the start this weekend.

However, it is the defense that will provide the boost for the Big Red. Captains Danny Powell and Larry Pierce will anchor the blueline with Mark McRae and Doug Murray. A combination of size and physical play will pose the most problems to an offensively-minded Crimson squad.

Harvard will be able to take advantage of an uncharacteristically weak Cornell offense. The loss of the team's top three scorers--Doug Stienstra, Mike Rutter, and Ryan Moynihan--leaves big holes up front.

Fortunately for the Crimson defense, there are no clear snipers on the Big Red squad. Denis Ladouceur and Matt McRae, a fifth-round draft pick of the Atlanta Thrashers, will be expected to step up.

Despite finishing the season with a ninth place national ranking, Colgate will be vulnerable to Harvard's gunners. The loss of All-American and Hobey Baker finalist Andy McDonald is a huge blow to the Red Raiders offense, and the graduation of offensive-minded blueliner Mike Marostega leaves a huge gap in its defensive unit.

The loss of Shep Harder between the pipes also adds another burden to the shoulders of a back line that lost its top three defensemen. Netminder Jason Lefevre does not have a wealth of on-the-job experience in goal, but performed well in his five starts last season.

However, do not count Colgate out yet. McDonald did not single-handedly carry the Red Raiders to the NCAA tournament. Cory Murphy and Bryan Long will provide strength and speed on the blueline that could trip Harvard up if it's not careful.

A pair of wins up north would not only improve Harvard's record, but would give this young team a big boost early in the season. With the worst trip to North Country to face St. Lawrence and Clarkson soon to come, the Crimson will need all the help it can get.