This past weekend showcased intense rivalry games that undeniably lived up to expectations, delivering thrilling contests with significant postseason implications and passionate crowds.

By the Numbers
  • Sam English's game-winning goal for Syracuse against Virginia with 48 seconds left.
  • Johns Hopkins' victory over Maryland with a shutout final period and Chayse Ierlan's 11 saves.
  • Princeton's Andrew McMeekin going 16-for-27 at the faceoff dot and scoring two goals against Penn.
  • Michigan's 13-12 win over Ohio State securing home field advantage in the Big Ten Quarterfinals.
Yes, But

While the games highlighted individual performances, some teams faced challenges in their offensive execution and shot selection, impacting their overall gameplay.

State of Play
  • Syracuse's key players from various transfer backgrounds stepping up during intense moments.
  • Johns Hopkins' defensive prowess pivotal in their win over Maryland and securing the top seed.
  • Princeton's dominance at the faceoff dot and in goal against Penn showcasing their specialist strengths.
  • Michigan's potential for a late-season surge reminiscent of their previous successful run.
What's Next

Teams will likely strategize to carry momentum from these rivalry wins into upcoming crucial matches, aiming for continued success and advancement in the postseason.

Bottom Line

The intense and impactful performances in these rivalry games highlight the essence of lacrosse, showcasing the significance of key players and strategic gameplay in securing crucial victories and building momentum for future successes.