"We are not scoring goals, but we are getting chances," Mazzoleni said. "I always look at our chance-differential to determine just how struggling the offense is."

Mazzoleni likes to roll four lines, which would distribute the physical effects of the larger Big Red more evenly across the team--reducing fatigue in a three-game series.

Ultimately, the series could be decided on special teams. Harvard's power play has just been in a tailspin, going 4 for its last 44. Out of desperation, Mazzoleni has turned the man-advantage over to his assistants, which has produced better puck movement but still no tangible production. Harvard looks to return to basics this weekend.

"We've changed the power play to just get the puck on the net more," Stay said. "We need to get more shots on goal. That will create better chances to score."

Of course, no evaluation of the series would be complete without mentioning the crowd at Lynah Rink. One of the most boisterous in college hockey (see related story below), it will certainly have a fish-filled welcome for the hated Crimson. Of all the teams in the ECAC, Cornell has perhaps one of the biggest home ice advantages.

"I told the team that it's just noise," Mazzoleni said. "The crowd is only a factor when Cornell starts getting some momentum. You can take them out of the game."

Overall, Harvard--winners of three of its last four--is playing its best hockey of the season. Given the success of the Big Red against the Crimson this year, and the atmosphere at Lynah, it is hard to imagine a Harvard sweep. However, Mazzoleni has drawn up a sound game plan. If Prestifilippo has a little magic left and gets some offensive support then Harvard can move on to Lake Placid in three.

One final thing about rivalries--they're unpredictable. Expect to see another exciting chapter written in the Harvard-Cornell feud. No draws allowed.