I previewed Central Michigan just a couple weeks ago for their game against State, and since then, the Chippewas have been smacked by State (photos of the senior day Sparty victory), had their game against Ball State canceled – kick ’em out if they don’t want to play Big Boy lacrosse – and beat Western Michigan 10-6 to seal their CCLA Tournament bid.
Central Michigan
Saturday, 1PM, Saline High School.
Record: 4-6 (1-1 CCLA West)
Rankings: 63 (Computer).
Common Opponents: Toledo (W 18-7), BYU (L 4-25), Michigan State (L 2-22).
Schedule
For an in-depth look at Central’s schedule, check out the above-linked preview post. Long story short, they were reduced to a faintly blood-colored stain by both BYU and Michigan State. Michigan beat both of those teams, the former in a mostly non-competitive game.
This should be little more than a tune-up for Michigan as they prepare to face the Spartans on Sunday.
Personnel
Central doesn’t have a lot of prolific scorers, with nobody over 3 points per game and only a trio of guys over 2 points per game. All three of senior attack Jeff Wood, sophomore midfielder Nick Diegel, and junior attack Justin Shauffler have produced most of their points on goals, though Wood has a fair number of assists as well. Though 18 different Chips have gotten onto the scoresheet, they’re only averaging 11.9 goals per game.
The defense is led by Ryan Lotan and Scott Brakora (team blogger), with senior defensive midfielder Joe Micelli near the top of the GB chart as well. Sophomore defenseman Matt Guidobono has been hit with the second-most penalty minutes on the team.
In goal, Cullen Hasking has taken over as the starter for Sean Coates. His save percentage is better, leading me to believe he’s performed better than Coates, but done so against the tougher competition.
Predictions
This should not be a competitive game. Michigan’s starters leave the field as early as possible to keep them healthy and fresh for the (presumptive) Michigan State game the next day. 25-8 Michigan wins.