https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/puck-university--3131865enHockeyCopyright Jim Williamshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/9d140fa78b087acda9ca9c41db855247.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/puck-university--3131865Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:45:09 +0000Jim WilliamsJim Williamsjimwilliamsmedia@gmail.comTim Williams takes you through the world of college hockey every week.falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wrestling-with-rona--42044276https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42044276Wed, 18 Nov 2020 20:47:09 +0000Jim WilliamsWeek one of the college hockey season is complete! Are we close to having more answers for the rest of the season's format or composition? Not even a little. Chris Lynch peruses the mess of a new season and changing participants, including responses...2685atlantic,big10,collegehockey,ecac,hockeyeast,rit,rpi,unionfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/uncharted-waters--41954901https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41954901Fri, 13 Nov 2020 08:06:19 +0000Jim WilliamsFinally! A new college hockey season! We peruse the conference's plans for restarting play and look at the absence of RIT and the entire Ivy League on the Fifth Season's debut of Puck University. Chris Lynch returns as the host.3241atlantichockey,college,collegehockey,ecac,hockeyeast,ivyleague,nchc,wchafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/covid-19-cancels-the-college-hockey-postseason--23841108https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23841108Fri, 13 Mar 2020 20:26:09 +0000Jim WilliamsThe College Hockey season is canceled as a result of concerns over COVID-19. Puck University tries to process the whole situation.1721college,coronavirus,covid-19,hockey,postseasonfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/covid-19-s-effect-on-college-hockey--23774415https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23774415Thu, 12 Mar 2020 03:20:23 +0000Jim WilliamsCOVID-19 is having an effect on the sports world. There will be more updates, but this episode will discuss the current impact on the College Hockey world as of Wednesday night, March 11th, 2020.1106college,coronavirus,hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/carly-jackson-goalie-trainer-extraordinaire--23474332https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23474332Wed, 04 Mar 2020 18:19:21 +0000Jim WilliamsCarly Jackson is the starting goaltender of the Maine Women's Ice Hockey team! She put up 57 saves to knock Boston University out of the Hockey East playoffs last weekend. The Amherst, Nova Scotia native joins Chris Lynch to talk about her experience...2420blackbears,college,maine,novascotia,orono,womenshockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trophy-tussle--23441812https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23441812Tue, 03 Mar 2020 21:30:19 +0000Jim WilliamsHow did the College Hockey Regular Season Championships sort themselves out? Chris Lynch examines the close to final regular season standings, the trophy winners, and possible Tournament Championship contenders. Plus where Arizona State falls in the...3203americaninternationalcollege,atlantichockey,bemidji,boston,bostoncollege,collegehockey,cornell,ecachockey,hockey,hockeyeast,mankato,minnesotastate,ncaa,nchc,northdakota,wchafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/late-beanpot-talk-college-hockey-s-future-nods-to-the-past--22965675https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22965675Wed, 19 Feb 2020 19:55:09 +0000Jim WilliamsThis is late... Beanpot Championship Talk, plus Hockey East gets a new Commissioner and the CCHA is back from the dead! Though the WCHA may well be on the way to the grave.... Chris Lynch tours the goings on of the College Hockey world.2909beanpot,boston,bostonuniversity,ccha,collegehockey,northeastern,wchafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sneddon-retires-playoff-madness-taking-shape--22491194https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22491194Thu, 06 Feb 2020 21:25:52 +0000Jim WilliamsVermont Head Coach Kevin Sneddon announces his retirement. We peruse his career as Head Coach of the UVM Catamounts. Who comes next? What's up next for Vermont? How do we make sense of the Hockey East standings and those of everywhere else in College...3146burlington,catamounts,collegehockey,hockeyeast,playoffs,standings,vermontfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/beanpot-stuff-old-and-good-new-and-dumb--22455075https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22455075Wed, 05 Feb 2020 21:21:58 +0000Jim WilliamsThe Beanpot is the best collegiate ice hockey tournament by a mile. Monday's festivities showed it! And also the problems with the NCAA Overtime rules messing with its best in-season tournament. Jason Scales and Chris Lynch examine the goings on of...4208beanpot,boston,bostoncollege,bostonuniversity,collegehockey,crimson,eagles,harvard,huskies,northeastern,tdgarden,terriersfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2020-beanpot-preview--22243623https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22243623Thu, 30 Jan 2020 19:47:47 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's Beanpot Time! Jason Scales joins Chris Lynch to discuss the participants (Harvard, Northeastern, Boston University and Boston College) ahead of the most wide open tournament in the last few years.4517beanpot,boston,bostoncollege,bostonuniversity,collegehockey,harvard,history,hockey,northeastern,tdgardenfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ct-beanpot-wrap-college-hockey-s-future--22212276https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22212276Wed, 29 Jan 2020 23:28:16 +0000Jim WilliamsThe best weekend in Sacred Heart hockey history coincides with a marvelous showing at the Connecticut ICe Festival Tournament this past weekend. Chris Lynch tours that tournament's successes and kinks. Then, we explore college hockey's future both in...3400bridgeport,collegehockey,connecticut,georgia,quinnipiac,sacredheart,uconnfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-connecticut-beanpot--22031375https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22031375Fri, 24 Jan 2020 20:03:38 +0000Jim WilliamsProject Beanpot Everywhere takes to the Nutmeg State! Bridgeport Connecticut hosts the CT Ice Festival (or Connecticut Beanpot) this weekend. Chris Lynch previews the matchups of Quinnipiac vs UConn and Yale vs Sacred Heart2624beanpot,college,connecticut,quinnipiac,sacredheart,tournament,uconn,yalefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/college-hockey-in-the-2010-s--22031276https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22031276Fri, 24 Jan 2020 19:55:52 +0000Jim WilliamsA look back at the exploits of the best College Hockey players, programs, teams, and coaches in the 2010's. From Duluth to Chestnut Hill, the sport gave us beautiful memories and moments.3646boston,college,collegehockey,minnesotaduluthfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2019-20-first-half-report--20868139https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20868139Wed, 18 Dec 2019 23:59:19 +0000Jim WilliamsIt’s the Christmas season! Time to observe how various teams have sorted out their first halves and acknowledge the successes and mishaps. Also, the World Junior rosters come more into view and we remember the late Doug Woog.2948collegehockey,dougwoog,hobeybaker,minnesota,worldjuniorsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/untimely-firings-timely-additions--20689965https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20689965Thu, 12 Dec 2019 17:59:45 +0000Jim WilliamsJim Montgomery's firing brings some concerns, namely for the lack of information. There's some new buildings going up, a new team joining the Women's game, and no more unbeaten teams. And there's a slate of games to discuss. Chris Lynch tours the...2963bostoncollege,college,cornell,dallas,dartmouth,hockey,montgomery,stonehillfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/games-with-names--20487643https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20487643Wed, 04 Dec 2019 21:42:14 +0000Jim WilliamsThanksgiving brings a wave of trophies to be handed out to the College Hockey sphere. Chris Lynch got to see some of those and watched the others from afar. And also some rivalries fall flat while the polls continue to be completely stupid.2922boston,bostoncollege,bostonuniversity,colgate,collegehockey,cornell,minnesota,newhampshire,northdakota,northeastern,rivalry,trophyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/thanksgiving-fire-alarm-at-agganis--20316992https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20316992Wed, 27 Nov 2019 18:29:14 +0000Jim WilliamsBoston University has program-wide concerns, Atlantic Hockey Has some fun teams and players to watch for, including at Sacred Heart and Army. Minnesota and North Dakota face off again! And College Hockey goes to Ireland. Chris Lynch peruses the...2570army,bostonuniversity,collegehockey,hockey,minnesota,northdakota,pioneers,sacredheart,westpointfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/college-at-the-hall-of-fame--20152824https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20152824Thu, 21 Nov 2019 00:38:39 +0000Jim WilliamsJerry York is officially a Hall of Farmer. Canadian journalists have a conniption about York going to work instead of a party, and the WCHA is on life support with Alabama Huntsville announcing their intentions to leave.3373boston,college,collegehockey,hockey,hockeyhalloffame,jerryyork,torontofalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-stupid-unfixable-polls--20036442https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20036442Thu, 14 Nov 2019 23:13:04 +0000Jim WilliamsHow do we fix the early season poll questions? Well, we kinda don't. Join Chris Lynch in understanding why and enjoying the games that follow. Namely, Denver and Duluth, Providence and BU, Notre Dame and Ohio State among those giving great shows.3129bostonuniversity,collegehockey,denver,duluth,notredame,ohiostate,polls,providence,sportsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/top-of-the-marquee--19912712https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19912712Thu, 07 Nov 2019 20:52:13 +0000Jim WilliamsDenver and Duluth headline the weekend College Hockey Marquee. Also, the Ivy League is finally playing hockey, Hockey East is still pretty weird, and St. Cloud is struggling mightily. Chris Lynch wonders why and tours the on going entertainment.3340collegehockey,devner,duluth,ecac,harvard,hockey,hockeyeast,ivyleague,minnesota,nchc,stcloudfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/changing-tides-stabalizing-polls--19776617https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19776617Wed, 30 Oct 2019 22:42:56 +0000Jim WilliamsThe NCAA makes a major change in fiscal policy. How does it affect College Hockey? Also, the polls are stabilizing around a few top teams and the Ivy League FINALLY begins play. Chris Lynch discusses the moving and shaking going on.3183bostoncollege,college,denver,hockey,ncaa,newhampshire,providencefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ratings-volatility--19656782https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19656782Wed, 23 Oct 2019 21:51:34 +0000Jim WilliamsDenver reigns supreme after sweeping Boston College. Minnesota Duluth is in trouble. Cornell is ranked 5th without playing a game that counts yet. How to make sense of this? Chris Lynch is here to help understand the early season consternation.3353falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/let-the-bands-play--19554094https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19554094Thu, 17 Oct 2019 15:02:01 +0000Jim WilliamsThe college hockey world debates between a college atmosphere driven by a band or a pro style sound system. Number 1 Duluth is defeated by Lowell. And matchups across the land live up to excitement expectations. Chris Lynch peruses the debates of the...3710amherst,band,bostoncollege,bostonuniversity,college,duluth,hockey,lowell,minnesota,northeastern,umassfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/goals-goals-and-more-goals--19423982https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19423982Wed, 09 Oct 2019 15:56:40 +0000Jim WilliamsThe season is underway! And offense abides. Chris Lynch peruses a weekend of offense and high scoring. Plus, Minnesota Duluth drops an exhibition game, which is no cause for panic, Maine is in free fall, and Wisconsin has questions to answer.3792coaching,college,duluth,goals,hockey,maine,minnesota,puck,scoring,universityfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2019-20-preseason-preview-western-edition--19358211https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19358211Fri, 04 Oct 2019 20:47:02 +0000Jim WilliamsThe 2019-20 College Hockey Season begins! This episode previews the western college hockey world from the overhaul of the WCHA, the crazy Alaska summer, and the expected domination of Minnesota Duluth and the NCHC. Chris Lynch continues his tour of...3913alabama,alaska,big10,bulldogs,championship,college,denver,duluth,hockey,huntsville,nchc,notredame,wcha,wisconsicnfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-university-season-four-premiere-eastern-edition--19352360https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19352360Fri, 04 Oct 2019 11:31:05 +0000Jim WilliamsThe 2019-20 season begins! Now that October has arrived, Season 4 of Puck University begins. Chris Lynch takes a tour of the state of eastern hockey ahead of the new season in the season preview.4860falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chris-lynch-talks-about-the-season-3-finale-duluth-reigns-again--17681166https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17681166Thu, 18 Apr 2019 20:49:39 +0000Jim WilliamsA long and grueling College Hockey season has concluded. Chris Lynch was in Buffalo for the Frozen Four and has plenty of praise to dole out for the teams. Also some words of critique for the NCAA for season long attendance and marketing problems that...3637falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chris-lynch-is-shuffling-to-buffalo-for-the-frozen-four--17606291https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17606291Thu, 11 Apr 2019 19:39:22 +0000Jim WilliamsThe Frozen Four arrives in Buffalo! Chris Lynch reminisces on the paths UMass, Denver, Minnesota-Duluth, and Providence took to reach Western New York. In addition, there's predictions made regarding the games and the individual awards.3375falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chris-lynch-is-frozen-four-bound--17561564https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17561564Sun, 07 Apr 2019 16:13:28 +0000Jim Williams:Shocking upsets, memorable coronations, and dramatic comebacks tinged with controversy. Chris Lynch and Jason Scales experiences plenty at the NCAA Regionals over the weekend and recount all the happenings. Also, Jason relives a memory of his heroes,...4705falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tourney-time-with-chris-lynch--17467388https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17467388Thu, 28 Mar 2019 21:10:53 +0000Jim WilliamsEvery Conference Championship game ended 3-2 over the weekend. Four of them needed overtime. Chris Lynch is joined by Josh Kummins of the New England Hockey Journal and Jason Scales of puckingoff.com to try and digest the weekend's entertainment. The...5748falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chris-lynch-on-conference-championship-weekend--17374992https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17374992Tue, 19 Mar 2019 21:24:56 +0000Jim WilliamsThere are six Conference Championships and many NCAA Tournament spots to give out this weekend. Jason Scales (puckingoff.com) joins Chris Lynch to discuss and enjoy the fun of March Madness on Ice4119falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chris-lynch-looks-at-college-hockey-s-playoff-elation-and-disappointments--17310710https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17310710Wed, 13 Mar 2019 15:52:02 +0000Jim WilliamsPlayoff hockey is underway! Seasons have already ended, collegiate careers have wrapped for professional chances, and there's plenty to enjoy and complain about. Chris Lynch explores it all on this week's Puck University episode.3168falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/yep-it-is-trophy-time-chris-lynch-talks-award-season--17238827https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17238827Wed, 06 Mar 2019 12:30:01 +0000Jim WilliamsShow Notes: All six conferences have awarded their Regular Season Trophies. Four conferences begin the postseason madness, and the other two are still fascinating. Oh and St. Cloud spent time in jail after winning the NCHC's crown. Chris Lynch...4231falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chris-lynch-on-late-year-complications--17108278https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17108278Thu, 21 Feb 2019 18:11:46 +0000Jim WilliamsUMass continues to win but lose a player to the pros (Not Cale Makar). Meanwhile, Arizona State, American International College, and Lake Superior State maintain great season stories while the Big 10 slips and UNH puzzles. Chris Lynch peruses the...3928falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2019-beanpot-final-and-beyond-with-chris-lynch--17036343https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17036343Wed, 13 Feb 2019 22:21:59 +0000Jim WilliamsNortheastern reigns for another year. Chris Lynch and Josh Kummins of the New England Hockey Journal discuss the back-to-back champions of Boston's annual college hockey turf war, the games, BC's Jerry York being extended for a few more years, and the...4295falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/goalie-war-2019-beanpot-midpoint--16974285https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16974285Thu, 07 Feb 2019 11:45:24 +0000Jim WilliamsGoaltenders and physicality dominate the first round of the Beanpot. The New England Hockey Journal's Josh Kummins joins Chris Lynch to discuss the end of Boston College's out-of-conference losing streak, Northeastern's return to the Beanpot final,...4027falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-puck-university-beanpot-preview-with-host-chris-lynch--16925430https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16925430Fri, 01 Feb 2019 20:53:37 +0000Jim WilliamsCollege Hockey's greatest regular season tradition begins on February 4th. Chris Lynch and guest Josh Kummins of the New England Hockey Journal preview the tournament and chances for Northeastern, Boston University, Boston College, and Harvard to...3383falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/host-chris-lynch-takes-a-look-at-the-pairwise-puzzle--16823997https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16823997Wed, 23 Jan 2019 19:42:56 +0000Jim WilliamsThe Pairwise knows all and determines all for March. What does it say in January? Chris Lynch explores the week's action, stories, and current tournament settings to see who will enter the dance and who is currently on the outside looking in.3536falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-u-the-2019-season-is-heating-up-part-two-with-your-host-chris-lynch--16741138https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16741138Thu, 17 Jan 2019 21:44:26 +0000Jim WilliamsThe Pairwise Rankings and Hobey Baker talk is heating up. Chris Lynch explores the start of Tournament Talk season and explains his pick for the Hobey Baker Favorite, UMass's Cale Makar. Eric Burton of Inside Hockey and The Sports Daily joins to...2957falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-u-the-2019-season-is-heating-up-part-one-with-your-host-chris-lynch--16741090https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16741090Thu, 17 Jan 2019 21:41:40 +0000Jim WilliamsThe Pairwise Rankings and Hobey Baker talk is heating up. Chris Lynch explores the start of Tournament Talk season and explains his pick for the Hobey Baker Favorite, UMass's Cale Makar. Eric Burton of Inside Hockey and The Sports Daily joins to...2051falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-university-a-tribute-to-tim-williams--16541772
If you want to pay your respects post it to his Twitter handle @TimWritesSports]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16541772Fri, 21 Dec 2018 20:13:12 +0000Jim WilliamsThe creator of Puck University, Tim Williams, tragically passes at only 34 years old. His friend and co-host Chris Lynch takes time to remember his friend and honors his memory with stories of the podcast’s creation and doing what Tim wanted to do,...
If you want to pay your respects post it to his Twitter handle @TimWritesSports]]>3576falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/first-half-of-2018-19-coming-to-a-close--16471482http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/12/14/first-half-of-2018-19-coming-to-a-closeFri, 14 Dec 2018 13:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's almost time for the calendar to turn over, which is a monumentous occasion in college hockey.  It means teams can no longer brush off bad starts as being "early" and surprise teams need to start acting like contenders.  This week on Puck...3062college hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/arming-the-dog-house-and-other-terrible-ideas--16399103http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/12/06/arming-the-dog-house-and-other-terrible-ideasThu, 06 Dec 2018 05:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsTim Williams and Chris Lynch are back at it with Puck University!  Attendance issues are the topic of the day, with both hosts taking in games this weekend where the crowd was the only disappointment,  But first, a story about Hockey East's very first...4126big ten hockey,college hockey,hockey eastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/instantly-my-second-favorite-college-hockey-gif--16340561http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/11/29/instantly-my-second-favorite-college-hockey-gifThu, 29 Nov 2018 13:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsRPI managed to do something that Tim Williams had no idea actually could happen in a hockey game on Sunday against Massachusetts-Lowell.  The show starts with Tim and Chris Lynch breaking it down, before going into the continued fall of BC and what...5698boston college,college hockey,ncaafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bad-weekend-for-goalies--16279393http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/11/21/bad-weekend-for-goaliesWed, 21 Nov 2018 18:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsGoaltenders across the country were under siege last weekend as high-scoring hockey dotted the collegiate landscape.  We break it all down on Puck University, from Michigan's lamp-friendly visit to Hockey Valley to Providence's destruction of the...3792falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-catamount-goes-to-the-hall-of-fame-and-arizona-state-gets-a-ranking--16228976
We also break down a big week for the Minnesota schools as the "state of hockey" takes a stranglehold on the USCHO rankings, and give credit where due to Arizona State on their huge leap forward this year.  Of course, there is also talk about how far the UMass-Amherst Minutemen have come this season.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/11/15/a-catamount-goes-to-the-hall-of-fame-and-arizona-state-gets-a-rankingThu, 15 Nov 2018 15:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's the ultimate hockey achievement for a single player: Getting into Toronto's Hockey Hall of Fame.  Martin St. Louis has entered the great museum, and Tim Williams and Chris Lynch celebrate another college hockey product getting enshrined. We also...
We also break down a big week for the Minnesota schools as the "state of hockey" takes a stranglehold on the USCHO rankings, and give credit where due to Arizona State on their huge leap forward this year.  Of course, there is also talk about how far the UMass-Amherst Minutemen have come this season.]]>3149college hockey,hockey,hockey hall of famefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ice-bus-and-more--16167344http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/11/08/ice-bus-and-moreThu, 08 Nov 2018 13:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsLast week, after all we talked about, it's hard to believe that Puck University didn't even touch on the unfolding situation at Connecticut, where the Huskies are creating a new arena plan.  Chris Lynch discusses all the difficulties in that after we...5023college hockey,university of connecticutfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/commonwealth-avenue-catastrophe-in-college-hockey--16111559http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/11/01/commonwealth-avenue-catastrophe-in-college-hockeyThu, 01 Nov 2018 16:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsThings just keep getting worse for the hockey teams on Boston's B-Line.  The BU Terriers and BC Eagles remain winless after rough weekends for both teams, and meanwhile it's Northeastern who's making noise, coming off a huge win over St. Cloud State...3773college hockey,hockey,sportsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-this-parity--16044737http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/10/24/is-this-parityWed, 24 Oct 2018 20:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsThe biggest surprise of the early season might be the struggles of the Boston schools.  At Puck University, Tim Williams and Chris Lynch examine the struggles of Boston College, Boston University, and Northeastern to see what can be made of the three...4395college hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/put-up-or-shut-up-weekend--15997519http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/10/18/put-up-or-shut-up-weekendThu, 18 Oct 2018 20:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsPuck University is in full session with the college hockey season giving us full slates every weekend.  Tim Williams and Chris Lynch start by taking a look back at a big hit last weekend that led to a scary moment.  From there, the two discuss last...3599college hockey,ncaafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/good-to-have-hockey-back--15939874http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/10/11/good-to-have-hockey-backThu, 11 Oct 2018 20:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsThe season is underway, and it's off to a great start.  Minnesota-Duluth came out with just one point out of a possible four against Minnesota in a thrilling start.  Is their goalie in trouble?  Michigan got upset by Vermont.  How good are the...2452college hockey,ncaa,university of michigan,university of vermontfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2018-19-season-preview-part-2--15880606http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/10/04/2018-19-season-preview-part-2Thu, 04 Oct 2018 18:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's finally here:  Happy Hockey, everyone!  The college hockey season begins on the men's side this weekend with schools in action across the country.  Just in time, Puck University finishes up our two-part season preview.  The ECAC and Hockey East...5948college hockey,ecac,hockey,hockey east,ncaafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-university-s-2018-19-season-preview-part-one--15815790http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/09/26/puck-universitys-2018-19-season-preview-part-oneWed, 26 Sep 2018 21:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsWe are just days from the 2018-19 College Hockey Season getting underway, and at Puck University we could not be more excited!  Host Tim Williams and correspondant Chris Lynch take a look out west at the defending champion Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs...3691college hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/project-beanpot-everywhere-puck-university-season-3-premiere--15717977
Chris Lynch and Tim Williams look into each of the current midseason tournaments, then start to think up a few more that should exist.  Old rivalries could be renewed yearly.  Smaller schools could have a yearly opportunity to get one over on a regional rival.  

While we're at it, why not give some Beanpot-like tournaments to the other college sports?  Tim discusses a few ideas he's had for college football, basketball, and even baseball before we wrap up.  Full season previews coming soon!]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/09/14/project-beanpot-everywhere--puck-university-season-3-premiereFri, 14 Sep 2018 14:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsAs any of our listeners know, we love the Beanpot here at Puck University.  We love it so much, in fact, that we believe every college sports fan should have something comparable.   Chris Lynch and Tim Williams look into each of the current midseason...
Chris Lynch and Tim Williams look into each of the current midseason tournaments, then start to think up a few more that should exist.  Old rivalries could be renewed yearly.  Smaller schools could have a yearly opportunity to get one over on a regional rival.  

While we're at it, why not give some Beanpot-like tournaments to the other college sports?  Tim discusses a few ideas he's had for college football, basketball, and even baseball before we wrap up.  Full season previews coming soon!]]>5911college football,college hockey,ncaafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/reddit-special-ii--15631257http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/06/06/reddit-special-iiWed, 06 Jun 2018 14:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsOne of the reasons this podcast launched in the first place was the support of reddit.com/r/collegehockey and we at Puck University can't say enough about what that support means to us.  In recognition, it's our second Reddit Special!  But first, a...4491college hockey,ncaafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-university-s-second-season-finale--15631260http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/04/11/puck-universitys-second-season-finaleWed, 11 Apr 2018 22:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsThe 2017-18 season has come to a close, with the Bulldogs of Minnesota-Duluth taking home the hardware.  Puck University looks at the Frozen Four, the Hobey Baker and Mike Richter Awards, and takes one look back at the season before heading off for...2286college hockey,frozen four,university of minnesota-duluthfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-university-s-2018-frozen-four-preview--15631261http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/04/04/puck-universitys-2018-frozen-four-previewWed, 04 Apr 2018 21:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsA full season of college hockey is almost in the books as Notre Dame, Michigan, Minnesota-Duluth, and Ohio State meet up in St. Paul for the Frozen Four.  Chris Lynch is at the Xcel Center with practices in the background.  We discuss the four...3620frozen four,michigan wolverines,ncaa hockey,notre dame fighting irishfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2018-ncaa-regional-preview--15631265
This year’s bracket, courtesy of USCHO]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/03/22/2018-ncaa-regional-previewThu, 22 Mar 2018 14:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsSince October, we’ve been building to an inevitable and thrilling end to college hockey season.  Here it comes, with the NCAA Regionals getting underway on Friday and taking us through the weekend.  It’s a wide-open field, even compared to other...
This year’s bracket, courtesy of USCHO]]>5149college hockey,ecac,hockey east,ncaa hockey tournament,wchafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/conference-championship-previews--15631264
Chris and I also break down some potential NCAA matchups that could happen, and handicap the ten Hobey Baker nominees.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/03/15/conference-championship-previewsThu, 15 Mar 2018 20:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's conference championship weekend, and a lot is at stake for several bubble teams.  Chris Lynch of insidehockey.com joins the show once again as we break down the conference tournaments, who needs to win at least once to get into the tournament,...
Chris and I also break down some potential NCAA matchups that could happen, and handicap the ten Hobey Baker nominees.]]>3768college hockey,hobey baker awardfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/welcome-back-to-playoff-hockey--15631268http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/03/01/welcome-back-to-playoff-hockeyThu, 01 Mar 2018 23:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsPuck University celebrates the best time on the hockey calendar:  Three whole months (and change) of playoff hockey.  Before we can have the NHL Playoffs and the Stanley Cup Finals, the college tournaments are taking center stage.  Chris Lynch of...3115falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/regular-season-coming-to-a-close--15631266http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/02/22/regular-season-coming-to-a-closeThu, 22 Feb 2018 22:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsCollege hockey season can be long, but it moves quickly.  It's hard to believe, then, that the regular season is coming to a close (for everybody but the NCHC) this weekend.  This has myself and Chris Lynch of Insidehockey.com thinking about the...4311college hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2018-beanpot-special--15631267
For Jack.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/02/13/2018-beanpot-specialTue, 13 Feb 2018 22:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsAfter thirty long years, the Northeastern Huskies have won the Beanpot.  The celebration continues on Puck University, where we break down the game, Tim's reaction, and the tournament's impact on the national picture.  Is Adam Gaudette a Hobey Baker...
For Jack.]]>3022beanpot,boston university terriers,college hockey,northeastern huskiesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/beanpot-preview-part-2--15631271
The Daily Free Press - Burn the Boats:  Why BU Must Win the Beanpot]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/02/08/beanpot-preview-part-2Thu, 08 Feb 2018 22:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsThe Beanpot Semifinals brought as much excitement as expected, as Northeastern handled a fiesty BC team in the early game and BU outlasted Harvard in the nightcap.  Now it's down to Northeastern and BU, which makes for an interesting podcast between...
The Daily Free Press - Burn the Boats:  Why BU Must Win the Beanpot]]>4925beanpot,boston university terriers,college hockey,northeastern huskiesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/beanpot-preview-part-1--15631272
We also take a harder look at the Atlantic, which is wide open and worth watching in what is an increasingly weird year elsewhere.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/02/01/beanpot-preview-part-1Thu, 01 Feb 2018 23:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's February, and that means it's finally Beanpot time!  The big tournament starts on Monday, and Chris Lynch from Insidehockey.com is back on the show to discuss the event.  Can Northeastern actually be the favorite?  Has BU come around enough that...
We also take a harder look at the Atlantic, which is wide open and worth watching in what is an increasingly weird year elsewhere.]]>4645boston college,boston university,college hockey,harvard,northeasternfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/minnesota-state-and-cornell-make-charges--15631269http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/01/26/minnesota-state-and-cornell-make-chargesFri, 26 Jan 2018 17:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsChris Lynch of InsideHockey.com is back to discuss big weekends for Minnesota State and Cornell, as well as more Hockey East weirdness.2974college hockey,cornell,minnesota statefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/classic-rivalries-renewed--15631283http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/01/19/classic-rivalries-renewedFri, 19 Jan 2018 16:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsOn Puck University, we love to talk about the unique landscape of college hockey and the hockey-exclusive rivalries that come along with it.  This week, those rivalries take center stage as Minnesota State takes on a couple of in-state rivals in St....2614college hockey,maine,minnesota state,new hampshire,st. cloud statefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/checking-in-on-the-ecac-and-hockey-east--15631275http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/01/12/checking-in-on-the-ecac-and-hockey-eastFri, 12 Jan 2018 17:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsCollege hockey season rolls on, and that means another session of Puck University.  Chris Lynch is back with the show to talk about the top schools in the ECAC.  How did Clarkson turn it around so quickly?  We then delve into accepting Penn State is...4760clarkson,college hockey,cornell,hockey east,penn statefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/out-of-the-break--15631270http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2018/01/05/out-of-the-breakFri, 05 Jan 2018 18:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's the second half of the season now in college hockey.  With midseason tournaments dotting the landscape, 2018 has gotten underway in grand fashion.  Chris Lynch joins Puck University this week to discuss the snow in Massachusetts, the Great Lakes...5329college hockey,great lakes invitational,michigan state spartansfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-university-s-realignment-special--15631291
Warning:  Content may be unsettling for Big Ten members.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/12/20/puck-universitys-realignment-specialWed, 20 Dec 2017 23:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsWIth college hockey off for the week to celebrate the Christmas holiday, it's time to get hypothetical.  InsideHockey.com's Chris Lynch joins the show again for the Realignment Special, where we think of creative ways to realign college hockey and add...
Warning:  Content may be unsettling for Big Ten members.]]>3660college hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hockey-east-is-weird-and-other-pre-break-thoughts--15631284http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/12/15/hockey-east-is-weird-and-other-pre-break-thoughtsFri, 15 Dec 2017 20:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt can't be said enough:  Hockey East is having an odd year.  Insidehockey.com's Chris Lynch joins the show again to talk about an upset-heavy week, the strange year in HEA, a preview of the Great Lakes Invitational, and the fate of the "program...4074alaska nanooks,college hockey,great lakes invitational,hockey eastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/early-hobey-baker-talk-and-the-governor-s-cup--15631288
After a quick preview of the Governor's Cup finals between Alaska and Alaska-Anchorage, Chris and I get into some very preliminary Hobey Baker discussion.  Takeaway of the week:  It's a weird year for Hockey East so far.

Click here for your HBO free trial through Amazon Channels.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/12/08/early-hobey-baker-talk-and-the-governors-cupFri, 08 Dec 2017 17:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's finals season, and that means college students and hockey players alike are looking forward to an important break.  The college hockey world is getting ready for their holiday break and the near midway point of the season.  Insidehockey.com's...
After a quick preview of the Governor's Cup finals between Alaska and Alaska-Anchorage, Chris and I get into some very preliminary Hobey Baker discussion.  Takeaway of the week:  It's a weird year for Hockey East so far.

Click here for your HBO free trial through Amazon Channels.]]>3696college hockey,governor's cup,hockey east,nchc,northeastern universityfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wcha-rising-or-ripping-off-the-band-aid--15631274
Amazon Prime 30 Day Trial]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/11/17/wcha-rising-or-ripping-off-the-band-aidFri, 17 Nov 2017 17:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsThe WCHA got hit hard by hockey realignment and the emergence of the Big Ten a few years ago.  It hasn't yet recovered, but with Minnesota State currently ranked #5 in the latest USCHO poll, Chris Lynch joins the show to discuss the conference as well...
Amazon Prime 30 Day Trial]]>4061boston university terriers,college hockey,minnesota state,northeastern university huskie,wcha hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/nu-bu-rivalry-talk-and-the-early-dominance-of-scsu--15631276
Amazon Item of the Week

Amazon Music Unlimited 30 day trial]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/11/10/nu-bu-rivalry-talk-and-the-early-dominance-of-scsuFri, 10 Nov 2017 18:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsA month and change into the hockey season, and St. Cloud State is undefeated.  Puck University checks out their early success.  The Big Ten has created another college hockey power conference.  And of course, with Chris Lynch appearing again,...
Amazon Item of the Week

Amazon Music Unlimited 30 day trial]]>2893boston university terriers,college hockey,hockey east,nchc,northeastern huskiesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/season-two-premiere--15631289
Amazon Fresh:  $14.99 a month for unlimited grocery delivery

HBO on Amazon FREE seven day trial]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/11/02/season-two-premiereThu, 02 Nov 2017 17:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsChris Lynch of Insidehockey.com joins me once again to discuss the nation's hockey programs as season two of Puck University gets underway.  We start, as we should, with the high-flying NCHC, then move on to the Big Ten and their good polling.  We...
Amazon Fresh:  $14.99 a month for unlimited grocery delivery

HBO on Amazon FREE seven day trial]]>3209falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-university-s-expansion-special--15631290
Kindle Unlimited

Up to 90% off used textbooks with Amazon]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/08/24/puck-universitys-expansion-specialThu, 24 Aug 2017 21:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsExpansion is one of college hockey fans' favorite things to talk about, so with the offseason still in full force Puck University is offering up the Expansion Special.  Our three-member panel ended up suggesting 35 schools that we would like to see...
Kindle Unlimited

Up to 90% off used textbooks with Amazon]]>4277big ten,college hockey,hockey,ncaafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/puck-university-s-reddit-special--15631286
Those redditors helped inspire me to launch this podcast in the first place, and as a reward we're taking their questions and comments on the Puck University Reddit Special.  ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/06/20/puck-universitys-reddit-specialTue, 20 Jun 2017 21:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsAs it turns out, college hockey has a loyal following on reddit, full of fans who love to talk and tweak each other. Those redditors helped inspire me to launch this podcast in the first place, and as a reward we're taking their questions and...
Those redditors helped inspire me to launch this podcast in the first place, and as a reward we're taking their questions and comments on the Puck University Reddit Special.  ]]>3627college hockey,hockey,ncaafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2016-2017-season-wrapup--15631294
We break down each of the three games that ended the season, and how Denver survived a late onslaught by Minnesota-Duluth.  The NCHC proved itself as the best conference in the country.  Chris and I also touch base on our Hobey Baker discussions from the previous episode, and whether there were any issues with Will Butcher winning the award.  

Finally, we look ahead to what will be a busy offseason for college hockey, and look back at the tremendous career of Red Berenson as he departs the University of Michigan.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/04/21/2016-2017-season-wrapupFri, 21 Apr 2017 16:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsA little offseason isn't going to stop Puck University.  We're back with one final rumination on the season gone by, with Chris Lynch calling in to discuss the Frozen Four.  The atmosphere in Chicago was excellent, and it has us wondering if maybe the...
We break down each of the three games that ended the season, and how Denver survived a late onslaught by Minnesota-Duluth.  The NCHC proved itself as the best conference in the country.  Chris and I also touch base on our Hobey Baker discussions from the previous episode, and whether there were any issues with Will Butcher winning the award.  

Finally, we look ahead to what will be a busy offseason for college hockey, and look back at the tremendous career of Red Berenson as he departs the University of Michigan.]]>3687college hockey,frozen four,ncaafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/frozen-four-special--15631287
Hear how Frank Serratore won Chris over at the Providence regional as Air Force proved themselves worthy of the NCAA field, and how Air Force won a coaching matchup for the ages in their regional semifinal against Western Michigan.  We also go over the wild North Dakota-BU game, Denver's dominance of the Midwest, and Notre Dame's amazing nine day turnaround against UMass-Lowell.

Chris and I get into a little Hobey Baker talk, and for the second week I'm stumping to nobody in particular for Zach Aston-Reese, the Northeastern senior who would represent the school's first ever Hobey Baker Award winner.  Chris makes a strong case for Will Butcher, and we both discuss how Thursday night's game for Denver could sway the voting.  I've referred to Aston-Reese as the "leader in the clubhouse," but by that analogy Butcher still has a hole to play.

Cal Petersen's article that Chris mentions during the podcast can be found through this link to The Players' Tribune and is a true must-read for the college hockey fan.  ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/04/06/frozen-four-specialThu, 06 Apr 2017 04:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsOn a rainy afternoon in the City of Broad Shoulders, Inside Hockey's Chris Lynch calls the podcast from the United Center to discuss the Frozen Four, the path all four teams took to get there, and the Hobey Baker Award. Hear how Frank Serratore won...
Hear how Frank Serratore won Chris over at the Providence regional as Air Force proved themselves worthy of the NCAA field, and how Air Force won a coaching matchup for the ages in their regional semifinal against Western Michigan.  We also go over the wild North Dakota-BU game, Denver's dominance of the Midwest, and Notre Dame's amazing nine day turnaround against UMass-Lowell.

Chris and I get into a little Hobey Baker talk, and for the second week I'm stumping to nobody in particular for Zach Aston-Reese, the Northeastern senior who would represent the school's first ever Hobey Baker Award winner.  Chris makes a strong case for Will Butcher, and we both discuss how Thursday night's game for Denver could sway the voting.  I've referred to Aston-Reese as the "leader in the clubhouse," but by that analogy Butcher still has a hole to play.

Cal Petersen's article that Chris mentions during the podcast can be found through this link to The Players' Tribune and is a true must-read for the college hockey fan.  ]]>3271college hockey,frozen four,harvard,notre damefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ncaa-off-week-edition-with-jim-williams--15631299
As an expert on other college sports, Jim helps try and bring my crazy theory that every sport should have a draft like hockey's back to Earth.  First, we briefly discuss the Hobey Hat Trick, and why my vote would go to Zach Aston-Reese.  Then, after I bring out my crazy theory, we start to break down what other sports might look like with hockey's draft.

Okay, fine, we go a bit crazy imagining fixes to problems that other sports don't actually have, such as the chaos that would erupt if football were to have a hockey-style draft, or how John Calipari might use such a draft to continue to out-recruit his basketball competition.  Eventually, after I go off on a tangent or two, we arrive back at hockey and the many things that make the college hockey landscape unique across the NCAA.

To wrap up, Jim and I discuss the news that North Dakota is cutting their women's hockey program.  I quote an article from the Grand Forks Herald in my take on the matter, you can find Brad Elliott Schlossman's article here.  

Next week's episode will be up a day early.  Since the Frozen Four is on Thursday, we'll be up Thursday morning with a Frozen Four preview.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/03/31/ncaa-off-week-edition-with-jim-williamsFri, 31 Mar 2017 04:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsApparently this weekend is all booked up in college sports, so we have to wait another week for the Frozen Four.  In the meanwhile, Puck University remains in session as I sit down with Jim Williams to discuss a topic I've always felt strongly about:...
As an expert on other college sports, Jim helps try and bring my crazy theory that every sport should have a draft like hockey's back to Earth.  First, we briefly discuss the Hobey Hat Trick, and why my vote would go to Zach Aston-Reese.  Then, after I bring out my crazy theory, we start to break down what other sports might look like with hockey's draft.

Okay, fine, we go a bit crazy imagining fixes to problems that other sports don't actually have, such as the chaos that would erupt if football were to have a hockey-style draft, or how John Calipari might use such a draft to continue to out-recruit his basketball competition.  Eventually, after I go off on a tangent or two, we arrive back at hockey and the many things that make the college hockey landscape unique across the NCAA.

To wrap up, Jim and I discuss the news that North Dakota is cutting their women's hockey program.  I quote an article from the Grand Forks Herald in my take on the matter, you can find Brad Elliott Schlossman's article here.  

Next week's episode will be up a day early.  Since the Frozen Four is on Thursday, we'll be up Thursday morning with a Frozen Four preview.]]>4022college hockey,hobey baker,nhl draft,north dakotafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/thinking-as-fans-and-analysts--15631292
Yes folks, it's the NCAA Regionals again in the college hokey world, and we take you through each region and fill out our brackets, so to speak, right there on the podcast.  

As it turns out, the three of us agree on a lot of the games this weekend, but we managed to talk ourselves into a little bit of a fun disagreement over a couple of regional matchups.  All of that bracket-filling, of course, is just an undercard for the main event of two fans going at it.

Spoiler alert:  The gloves really stay on.  After all, this is college hockey we're talking about; you have to really earn a fight.  We also talk about a game that ended in a fight last weekend at the Hockey East tournament.  

Inside Hockey's Chris Lynch will be on site at two different regionals, and when we next hear from him he'll be either in or on his way to the City of Broad Shoulders for the Frozen Four in Chicago.  Dave and I will be watching from our respective living rooms on polar opposite ends of the country--Hawaii and Boston respectively--and wish all of your teams that aren't playing any of ours the absolute best of luck moving forward.

At the finish, I say a few words about American Sports Network, who helped me launch this podcast and who got both Dave and myself back in the college hockey game.  Here's wishing everyone involved with the network all the best moving forward, as we're on to what's next here on Puck University.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/03/24/thinking-as-fans-and-analysts-1Fri, 24 Mar 2017 04:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsThe hardest thing for a sportswriter to do is treat a game objectively when it's their school playing in the game.  To that end, my guests Dave Dondoneau--a North Dakota guy living in Hawaii--and Chris Lynch--Boston University alumnus--are at odds...
Yes folks, it's the NCAA Regionals again in the college hokey world, and we take you through each region and fill out our brackets, so to speak, right there on the podcast.  

As it turns out, the three of us agree on a lot of the games this weekend, but we managed to talk ourselves into a little bit of a fun disagreement over a couple of regional matchups.  All of that bracket-filling, of course, is just an undercard for the main event of two fans going at it.

Spoiler alert:  The gloves really stay on.  After all, this is college hockey we're talking about; you have to really earn a fight.  We also talk about a game that ended in a fight last weekend at the Hockey East tournament.  

Inside Hockey's Chris Lynch will be on site at two different regionals, and when we next hear from him he'll be either in or on his way to the City of Broad Shoulders for the Frozen Four in Chicago.  Dave and I will be watching from our respective living rooms on polar opposite ends of the country--Hawaii and Boston respectively--and wish all of your teams that aren't playing any of ours the absolute best of luck moving forward.

At the finish, I say a few words about American Sports Network, who helped me launch this podcast and who got both Dave and myself back in the college hockey game.  Here's wishing everyone involved with the network all the best moving forward, as we're on to what's next here on Puck University.]]>4152boston university,college hockey,ncaa,north dakotafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2017-hockey-east-tournament-special--15631296
First, you had Notre Dame's final game as a member of Hockey East.  The Fighting Irish are off to the Big Ten after the NCAA Tournament.  Their coach Jeff Jackson explained during a press conference that, while Hockey East had been welcoming to the folks from South Bend, it was never truly home.  Perhaps it just felt that way after UMass-Lowell trounced Notre Dame in their semifinal matchup.

Friday night's second game was the always-heated Commonwealth Avenue rivalry, which now has a loud new chapter to their archive.  A controversial finish nearly overshadowed an unforgettable third period.  Hear what one of the central players involved in the ending controversy had to say about that fated final faceoff.

It all culminated in Saturday night's final, the fifth in a row for Lowell.  Once in the middle of Hockey East, the University of Massachusetts campus has vaulted itself to a national powerhouse.  We'll be back on Friday to discuss the River Hawks' chances, and everybody else's, in the NCAA Tournament.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/03/19/2017-hockey-east-tournament-specialSun, 19 Mar 2017 21:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsHow is offense like a housecat?  We begin by having Jerry York give us a great analogy to recap a great weekend of hockey here in Boston.  The top four teams in Hockey East made it to the TD Garden for the HEA semifinals and final.  Hockey fans saw an...
First, you had Notre Dame's final game as a member of Hockey East.  The Fighting Irish are off to the Big Ten after the NCAA Tournament.  Their coach Jeff Jackson explained during a press conference that, while Hockey East had been welcoming to the folks from South Bend, it was never truly home.  Perhaps it just felt that way after UMass-Lowell trounced Notre Dame in their semifinal matchup.

Friday night's second game was the always-heated Commonwealth Avenue rivalry, which now has a loud new chapter to their archive.  A controversial finish nearly overshadowed an unforgettable third period.  Hear what one of the central players involved in the ending controversy had to say about that fated final faceoff.

It all culminated in Saturday night's final, the fifth in a row for Lowell.  Once in the middle of Hockey East, the University of Massachusetts campus has vaulted itself to a national powerhouse.  We'll be back on Friday to discuss the River Hawks' chances, and everybody else's, in the NCAA Tournament.]]>959boston college,boston university,college hockey,hockey,hockey eastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/six-months-out-of-four-years--15631297
Our guest this week is USCHO's Candace Horgan, editor and women's hockey expert.  She comes on to preview a familiar Women's Frozen Four, with all four of the same teams as last year.  Despite that, we talk about how the women's field is starting to grow, if not necessarily into national championship contenders.  Candace also gives us some insight into the breaking story between the United States Women's National Team and USA Hockey.  The boycott announced on Wednesday isn't sudden and it isn't just about money, though the money is an issue as well.  Would you be part of a four year committment for only six months of pay?  Back on happier topics, we also discuss the Patty Kazmaier Award and how Ann-Renee Desbiens has been the rare goalie that could take a major honor away from the skaters.  On that note, what are the odds Wisconsin doesn't go home with the hardware?

Candace's latest article, also featuring USCHO writer Nicole Haase, can be found here.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/03/16/six-months-out-of-four-yearsThu, 16 Mar 2017 04:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsBig weekend in the college hockey world as the six conferences get set to crown a champion.  I review Thursday night's action in the Big Ten, preview the conference semifinals and finals for all the conferences, talk about the ten Hobey Baker...
Our guest this week is USCHO's Candace Horgan, editor and women's hockey expert.  She comes on to preview a familiar Women's Frozen Four, with all four of the same teams as last year.  Despite that, we talk about how the women's field is starting to grow, if not necessarily into national championship contenders.  Candace also gives us some insight into the breaking story between the United States Women's National Team and USA Hockey.  The boycott announced on Wednesday isn't sudden and it isn't just about money, though the money is an issue as well.  Would you be part of a four year committment for only six months of pay?  Back on happier topics, we also discuss the Patty Kazmaier Award and how Ann-Renee Desbiens has been the rare goalie that could take a major honor away from the skaters.  On that note, what are the odds Wisconsin doesn't go home with the hardware?

Candace's latest article, also featuring USCHO writer Nicole Haase, can be found here.]]>3236big ten,college hockey,hobey baker award,hockey east,women's hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/superstition-and-playoff-hockey--15631303
We also look at a few potential party-crashers; teams that are good enough to win their conference even if they haven’t earned consideration for an at-large NCAA bid.  A couple of teams featured had high hopes coming into the season and seem to be hitting their stride at the right moment, could they have real sleeper potential?

After Dave and I preview ASN’s featured Northeastern at Boston University game on Saturday night, I sit down with Northeastern Associate Head Coach Jerry Keefe to discuss the Huskies’ season, as well as their rise from Hockey East afterthoughts to conference competitors. 

This week Sydney McKibbon has the hammer.  With the Women’s NCAA Tournament set to begin this weekend, I sit down with frontrunner Wisconsin’s senior captain Sydney McKibbon to discuss her career with the Badgers, the remarkable team she’s been a part of this year, the atmosphere remarkable WCHA Women’s Hockey Conference, and the mindset of a true NCAA Tournament favorite.  ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/03/10/superstition-and-playoff-hockeyFri, 10 Mar 2017 05:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsThis week on Puck University, we take a closer look at a number of teams whose seasons are on the line this weekend.  While some “bubble” teams could lose this weekend and be safe, the ones Dave Dondoneau and I look at have to advance to even get an...
We also look at a few potential party-crashers; teams that are good enough to win their conference even if they haven’t earned consideration for an at-large NCAA bid.  A couple of teams featured had high hopes coming into the season and seem to be hitting their stride at the right moment, could they have real sleeper potential?

After Dave and I preview ASN’s featured Northeastern at Boston University game on Saturday night, I sit down with Northeastern Associate Head Coach Jerry Keefe to discuss the Huskies’ season, as well as their rise from Hockey East afterthoughts to conference competitors. 

This week Sydney McKibbon has the hammer.  With the Women’s NCAA Tournament set to begin this weekend, I sit down with frontrunner Wisconsin’s senior captain Sydney McKibbon to discuss her career with the Badgers, the remarkable team she’s been a part of this year, the atmosphere remarkable WCHA Women’s Hockey Conference, and the mindset of a true NCAA Tournament favorite.  ]]>4060boston university terriers,college hockey,northeastern huskies,wisconsin badgers,women's hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/college-hockey-that-s-what-we-do--15631313
We then preview ASN's featured game on Saturday night:  Wisconsin at Penn State.  Both teams have made gigantic strides this year, with Penn State reaching a new level for their program while Wisconsin makes their way back to prominence.  Dave and Brendan break down what should be a particularly entertaining game and series at Pegula Ice Arena.

From there we start to look at the potential NCAA tournament picture.  There are up to ten teams sitting on what you might call the "bubble" right now, and we discuss which teams must win their conference to get in and which ones just need to keep on the path they're on.  The case of North Dakota, the defending champion that has been struggling of recent, is discussed.

We also offer up a very early Hobey Baker preview.  With no real "star" of the season, it's an interesting race to consider.  Could a defenseman or a goalie make a serious run at it?  Could it go to a player on a team that won't be seen in the NCAAs?  Brendan and Dave give their thoughts.

To finish, I sit down with Hockey East's Brian Smith to discuss the fifteenth year of the Women's Hockey East conference and how far that conference has come.  With the Women's Hockey East Final broadcast Sunday on ASN, we look at the history of the tournament as well as the growing depth the conference has shown.  

All on a packed schedule this week on Puck University.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/03/03/college-hockey-thats-what-we-doFri, 03 Mar 2017 05:00:00 +0000Jim WilliamsIt's the beginning of conference playoff season around the country, as four of the six college hockey conferences begin their postseasons.  Brendan Jones of College Hockey Now, and American Sports Network writer Dave Dondoneau join me this week to...
We then preview ASN's featured game on Saturday night:  Wisconsin at Penn State.  Both teams have made gigantic strides this year, with Penn State reaching a new level for their program while Wisconsin makes their way back to prominence.  Dave and Brendan break down what should be a particularly entertaining game and series at Pegula Ice Arena.

From there we start to look at the potential NCAA tournament picture.  There are up to ten teams sitting on what you might call the "bubble" right now, and we discuss which teams must win their conference to get in and which ones just need to keep on the path they're on.  The case of North Dakota, the defending champion that has been struggling of recent, is discussed.

We also offer up a very early Hobey Baker preview.  With no real "star" of the season, it's an interesting race to consider.  Could a defenseman or a goalie make a serious run at it?  Could it go to a player on a team that won't be seen in the NCAAs?  Brendan and Dave give their thoughts.

To finish, I sit down with Hockey East's Brian Smith to discuss the fifteenth year of the Women's Hockey East conference and how far that conference has come.  With the Women's Hockey East Final broadcast Sunday on ASN, we look at the history of the tournament as well as the growing depth the conference has shown.  

All on a packed schedule this week on Puck University.]]>4185college hockey,hockey east,penn state nittany lions,wisconsin badgers,women's hockeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/first-of-many-or-finding-order-in-chaos--15631302
On this first episode of Puck University I was able to sit down with Minnesota standout Sarah Potomik, last year's women's Frozen Four MOP.  The sophomore is also a member of the Canadian national team, along with her younger sister Amy.  We talk about wide open ice, the difference between national hockey and college hockey, Minnesota's growing rivlary with Wisconsin, and how the Gophers will be preparing for a tough conference tournament.

Later, I sit down and talk to Michigan seniors Max Shuart and Nolan DeJong.  The defending Big Ten champions are taking on Ohio State this weekend.  Seems like a good time to ask about that rivalry, the Big Ten's growing atmosphere, and their memories of Yost Ice Arena as well as the great Joe Lewis Arena.  

Before this weekend gets started in college hockey, take this primer.  Puck University, where fight songs end in "sieve" chants.  ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/puckuniversity/2017/02/24/first-of-many-or-finding-order-in-chaosFri, 24 Feb 2017 16:30:00 +0000Jim WilliamsWith the college hockey regular season winding down, last night's action set up a frantic finish in both Hockey East and the NCHC conferences.  Now the Hockey East regular season title is up for grabs between four different teams, and Denver and...
On this first episode of Puck University I was able to sit down with Minnesota standout Sarah Potomik, last year's women's Frozen Four MOP.  The sophomore is also a member of the Canadian national team, along with her younger sister Amy.  We talk about wide open ice, the difference between national hockey and college hockey, Minnesota's growing rivlary with Wisconsin, and how the Gophers will be preparing for a tough conference tournament.

Later, I sit down and talk to Michigan seniors Max Shuart and Nolan DeJong.  The defending Big Ten champions are taking on Ohio State this weekend.  Seems like a good time to ask about that rivalry, the Big Ten's growing atmosphere, and their memories of Yost Ice Arena as well as the great Joe Lewis Arena.  

Before this weekend gets started in college hockey, take this primer.  Puck University, where fight songs end in "sieve" chants.  ]]>1863big ten,college hockey,hockey,michigan wolverines,minnesota golden gophersfalsefull