The Buckeyes of Ohio State roll into Amherst to take on the Minutemen of UMass-Amherst in a Big 10 vs Hockey East match-up. OSU is coming off a weekend series vs RPI where they had back to back 1-1 ties. UMass had wins over Union in Schenectady and AIC in Amherst. The two teams come into the season with differing expectations. The Buckeyes are coming of an NCAA appearance while UMass is looking to get there. For OSU this season will hinge on the development of their goaltending. Can they count on Junior Sean Romeo or two Freshman, Evan Moyse & Tommy Nappier? The defense in front of them is a decent corp, led by Srs. Janik Moser & Matt Joyaux, as well as Jrs. Sasha Larocque & Tommy Parran. The Buckeyes have an explosive offense powered by Dakota Joshua, Tanner Laczynski, & Mason Jobst. The Minutemen are in a total overhaul in coach Greg Carvel’s 2nd year. 15 new players on this season’s roster, most notably Fr. Cole Makar. Makar was drafted 4th overall this past NHL draft by the Colorado Avalanche. UMass also has considerable talent in Providence College transfer Niko Rufo, who will no doubt add a strong presence in the locker room. Also Fr. Mario Ferraro, a 2nd round pick of the San Jose Sharks will help to patrol the blue line. The Minutemen will have some pop from the likes of Jake Suter, Niko Hildenbrand, & Kurt Keats.