BG Hockey Predictions

[osualum86]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

I know who you are!!! You need to get back on AZZ. You and your wife used to post in all of the forums regularly!! Before AZZ, this is where we talked hockey. It's nice to have this place to talk about hockey and the things going on in the league and the hockey world in general, but it's also great to have a BG site to talk BG Hockey and just BG sports!

You're right, we do need to get back on AZZ and talk Falcon sports. Hey, we both are off Thursday. We're heading up to BG for that 'meet the team' thing and will be picking up our season tickets for football. Can't wait to get there.

 

[BGFan]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

If I were a falcon fan I wouldn't care a lick what the record was this coming season. You should look at 3 things: are the competitive, do they play hard for their coach, and have they improved from october to march.

Do I think BG will finish at or above .500, no. Frankly I don't think they will be close. But like I said this season isn't about the record. Next season you can look more at the record and if they are improving on the previous year. I know its tough to hear since you have been doing it for years, but take your lumps this year. There isn't a whole lot of talent returning from a bad team and there aren't a lot of recruits that are coming in that make you look twice. Just trust what Coach Berg is and will do. He was a big part of turning Miami around and will do so at BG. Patiences is needed as it took him and Coach Blasi 4 years to really get it turned around completely at Miami, so don't expect anything over night especially with the roster you have.... .500 is a pipe dream.

While I don't entirely disagree, your statements are mostly made on what you believe to be true. Yes, BG only won 5 games last year but we could easily have won 13. We had 8 games go to OT. Of those 8 we lost only 2 and the rest ended in a tie (if you don't count the shoot outs, the majority of which we won (5-1 in shootouts)). This team isn't as far away as you may think.

 

[redhawkman10]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

While I don't entirely disagree, your statements are mostly made on what you believe to be true. Yes, BG only won 5 games last year but we could easily have won 13. We had 8 games go to OT. Of those 8 we lost only 2 and the rest ended in a tie (if you don't count the shoot outs, the majority of which we won (5-1 in shootouts)). This team isn't as far away as you may think.

Ha I don't count shootouts.

Im not disagreeing that they aren't far away, but the proof is in the pudding so to speak. I don't go off speculation, I try to go off of what we know and facts. Which is why I have put Ohio st. so far down in the early going because of what we know they lost their top 3 players and have very little coming back.

BG is returning only 1 player who had 20 pts and only 1 player who scored in double digits. And only return 3 players with double digit point totals period. Now there will be incresed production from some of these guys but how much you don't know and for their to be a huge leap in win totals you will have to ask guys to do a lot that they have never done before. And beyond that the question marks in net are even bigger.

I use the same logic with BG, you are speculating they "could" of won 13 fact is they didn't. Listen I am a really big fan of Coach Berg as well as coach Schutte, I have known them for 15 years and I truly believe they will turn the program around. ( sorry for not including the other assitant but not sure who it is )

With all that said, they don't have a lot of talent on the team returning. They have some solid freshmen coming in but if you are solely counting on them then you have bigger issues because freshmen are unpredictable no matter of how old or young they are when they come in. I do think they will win more than 5 games this season soley because their will be a change in attitude up there and they will play hard. But you still have to score goals and stop teams from scoring.

Not trying to bash BG and I hope this doesn't come off as that, Just an honest speaker and frankly I am enjoying the conversation with you. I just wouldn't expect a lot. Its a little easier to have low expectations with a team rebuilding mainly because if they exceed it things are better than you thought. Lol a little reverse pyschology but whatever.

 

[BGFan]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

I understand, trust me. It's hard even for me to be optimistic but what I saw last year from them gives me a bit more optimism than I have had in many a year. Their mindset was close, and a little extra push could have resulted in a middle of the pack finish as opposed to last. In the grand scheme of things we only lost 2 of the OT games. On the flip side we didn't win any of them so 6 of them ended, technically, in a tie. (I'm not a fan of the shootout deciding ties because, to me, it puts the team in a mindset to take it to a shootout as opposed to winning it in OT. This wouldn't be a bad thing if the shootout counted as a real win, of course, but since it doesn't...)

My only point is that while a .500 season may not happen, I don't believe that it is as much of a stretch as many may think. If it does happen I will be absolutely thrilled but far from satisfied. Having watched the team since 1984 anything short of returning to the top of the league isn't acceptable.

The arena is currently in the first phase of a 3 phase renovation. Completion of that will, no doubt, help down the line.

 

[Freddie]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Miamiredhawks08: "Side note: have any of you had to wear a helmet in SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL CAGE?!?!?!?! Are you flipping kidding me?!?!?! Felt like a 30 year old wearing floaties in a wading pool! jeebus!"

A foul ball goes up, hits the crossbar on the cage above you, ricocets back and fractures your skull.

You, your family, your employer and your health insurance carrier will all race to be first in line to sue the owner of the batting cage.

The better question might be; who the flock needs batting practice for slow pitch?

 

[redhawkman10]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

I understand, trust me. It's hard even for me to be optimistic but what I saw last year from them gives me a bit more optimism than I have had in many a year. Their mindset was close, and a little extra push could have resulted in a middle of the pack finish as opposed to last. In the grand scheme of things we only lost 2 of the OT games. On the flip side we didn't win any of them so 6 of them ended, technically, in a tie. (I'm not a fan of the shootout deciding ties because, to me, it puts the team in a mindset to take it to a shootout as opposed to winning it in OT. This wouldn't be a bad thing if the shootout counted as a real win, of course, but since it doesn't...)

My only point is that while a .500 season may not happen, I don't believe that it is as much of a stretch as many may think. If it does happen I will be absolutely thrilled but far from satisfied. Having watched the team since 1984 anything short of returning to the top of the league isn't acceptable.

The arena is currently in the first phase of a 3 phase renovation. Completion of that will, no doubt, help down the line.

You have a lot to be optimistic about, you have a coaching staff that will get the job done. But to say you won't be happy with a .500 finish is a little out there. Since that hasn't happened in a while is something you have to shoot for. You have to be realistic in your goals. You have to set levels. NASA didn't go right to the moon when they wen't into space they had many other goals before that. Yes the ultimate goal is to compete for a bye year in and year out but you got to have stepping stones.

And I see your points about last year, but that is last year. The problems for this year are still there. You don't have guys who can consistantly put the puck in the net. It is what it is, but its a slow process to take a team from where BG is and put them on the top. If they get there in 5 years ( and I mean get there by being their consistantly ) than that is an achievment.

I will say I for one am estatic that the administration has given the program the support that it needs/deserves. It would of been a black eye for the sport if BG had folded.

Miamiredhawks08: "Side note: have any of you had to wear a helmet in SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL CAGE?!?!?!?! Are you flipping kidding me?!?!?! Felt like a 30 year old wearing floaties in a wading pool! jeebus!"

A foul ball goes up, hits the crossbar on the cage above you, ricocets back and fractures your skull.

You, your family, your employer and your health insurance carrier will all race to be first in line to sue the owner of the batting cage.

The better question might be; who the flock needs batting practice for slow pitch?

Clearly you haven't tried to hit a moving object while you are drunk....everyone needs practice at that!

 

[BG Falcons Fan]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Well I find this whole discussion about others opinions of the Falcons so enjoyable. Redhawkman, " there arent a lot of recruits that make you look twice", you seem to be quite a hockey expert. How many of the incoming Freshmen did you scout this past season? What were their roles on the team?Of the ones you scouted how many did you see more than once? For that matter how many of this years sophomores did you scout? Interesting how they have all these question marks and they only needed to speak to you!
Players from opposing teams will tell you that this was no easy game after Jan 1, last year, and the team was starting to play. Coach B seems to be happy with the recruits for this year? If anyone thinks it will be easy to play against this very young team, advantage Falcons. They will definitely not win every night in the CCHA, but they will compete and looking at the recruits Coach B has a few years to get them on the same page, i think he may know a thing or two about developing players, ala Miami!

 

[BGFan]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

You have a lot to be optimistic about, you have a coaching staff that will get the job done. But to say you won't be happy with a .500 finish is a little out there.

I do believe that I said that I would be thrilled with a .500 finish this year. My point was that I won't be satisfied with that on an ongoing basis because the goal of any team should be to finish at the top year in and year out.

 

[davyd83]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Both former Miami assistants (Bergeron and Blashill) have some hills to climb. If either one can secure first round home ice, it should be considered a big step forward, and I think that Bowling Green is probably the better bet of the two to do that. But to do it, they will need a few breaks and some spirited play. Best of luck to both new coaches.

 

[redhawkman10]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Well I find this whole discussion about others opinions of the Falcons so enjoyable. Redhawkman, " there arent a lot of recruits that make you look twice", you seem to be quite a hockey expert. How many of the incoming Freshmen did you scout this past season? What were their roles on the team?Of the ones you scouted how many did you see more than once? For that matter how many of this years sophomores did you scout? Interesting how they have all these question marks and they only needed to speak to you!
Players from opposing teams will tell you that this was no easy game after Jan 1, last year, and the team was starting to play. Coach B seems to be happy with the recruits for this year? If anyone thinks it will be easy to play against this very young team, advantage Falcons. They will definitely not win every night in the CCHA, but they will compete and looking at the recruits Coach B has a few years to get them on the same page, i think he may know a thing or two about developing players, ala Miami!

Saw far more play than you, funny how you are getting combative and defensive. Read everything carefull and get off your high horse. Were having a discussion not bashing BG. Its called realism, get a dose...

Ive known Berg for 20 years and know what he has done and what he is about. Behind closed doors he is far more realistic. Relying on freshmen to win in this league is a death sentance. Took him and Blasi 5 years to be consistant at Miami. So chill out, if you can't handle the truth about this season don't post. Look at the numbers they tell the story.

I do believe that I said that I would be thrilled with a .500 finish this year. My point was that I won't be satisfied with that on an ongoing basis because the goal of any team should be to finish at the top year in and year out.

Gotcha, misunderstood that. That makes more sense and a very fair point. I wouldn't be happy with a .500 season in 3 years if I were you either. I think, and Im sure you do as well, they will be better than .500 in 3 years.

 

[BG Falcons Fan]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

On a positive note. Soloway named Captain.

http://www.bgsufalcons.com/news/2010/9/9/HOCKEY_0909102217.aspx

Also this week practices begin with coaches, i believe its twice a week with coaches. Bergeron, on coaches show and in the tribune is excited, he continues to talk about the positive strides the players are taking.
Talking to several of the players they seem to be fired up to play for him. Not a surprise considering the players at Miami continue to say nothing but amazing things about Mr Bergeron.

http://www.sent-trib.com/trib/index...positive-start&catid=22:bgsu-sports&Itemid=40

 

[redhawkman10]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

On a positive note. Soloway named Captain.

http://www.bgsufalcons.com/news/2010/9/9/HOCKEY_0909102217.aspx

Also this week practices begin with coaches, i believe its twice a week with coaches. Bergeron, on coaches show and in the tribune is excited, he continues to talk about the positive strides the players are taking.
Talking to several of the players they seem to be fired up to play for him. Not a surprise considering the players at Miami continue to say nothing but amazing things about Mr Bergeron.

http://www.sent-trib.com/trib/index...positive-start&catid=22:bgsu-sports&Itemid=40

Well for anyone who has known him for any length of time, there isn't a bad thing you could say about the guy...Just a wondeful human being.

I really really really hope this Penn st. announcement doesnt hurt BG. There have been rumblings about a couple other smaller CCHA programs because of it but hopefully they will stick with their commitment. But BG could be affected by who they choose as their coach. Rico is a canidate whether he decides to take the leap or not is questionalbe but if he does, Berg becomes the leading canidate to take over at Miami.

 

[Hokydad]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Jordan Samuel Thomas will have a big year for your team.. He worked his tail off all summer skating with Paul Vincent of the Chicago Blackhawks and made great strides with his skating.
He also had a very good development camp and impressed Dudley and the brain trust.

Will get his points+

 

[aparch]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Jordan Samuel Thomas will have a big year for your team.. He worked his tail off all summer skating with Paul Vincent of the Chicago Blackhawks and made great strides with his skating.
He also had a very good development camp and impressed Dudley and the brain trust.

Will get his points+

Uhh, how did he impress Rick Dudley in Blackhawks camp, when Rick has been the GM of the Atlanta since April?

 

[pinch]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Uhh, how did he impress Rick Dudley in Blackhawks camp, when Rick has been the GM of the Atlanta since April?

....PV of the Blackhawks (period) Next sentence...Hokydad didnt say Dudley was with the Blackhawks

 

[Hockeybuckeye]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

I would say BG's future does indeed look much brighter from one fact alone, that they chose NOT to hire their distinguished alumnus John Markell as head coach as rumor in Columbus had him in contention for.

 

[redhawkman10]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Jordan Samuel Thomas will have a big year for your team.. He worked his tail off all summer skating with Paul Vincent of the Chicago Blackhawks and made great strides with his skating.
He also had a very good development camp and impressed Dudley and the brain trust.

Will get his points+

More pathetic posting...atleast you are consistant in your nonsense...

Uhh, how did he impress Rick Dudley in Blackhawks camp, when Rick has been the GM of the Atlanta since April?

That is classic!!! you are now my favorite poster!

 

[BG Falcons Fan]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Nice article, good to see Alumni working together.
http://www.bgsufalcons.com/news/2010/9/21/HOCKEY_0921102400.aspx

Hello Redhawkman, do you think that Mr. Bergeron would really go back to Miami if that door opened? I would think that he would do at least a couple of years before he would change.

Would seem like the right thing to do, to stay until he built a Head Coach resume.

 

[redhawkman10]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

Nice article, good to see Alumni working together.
http://www.bgsufalcons.com/news/2010/9/21/HOCKEY_0921102400.aspx

Hello Redhawkman, do you think that Mr. Bergeron would really go back to Miami if that door opened? I would think that he would do at least a couple of years before he would change.

Would seem like the right thing to do, to stay until he built a Head Coach resume.

sorry to say but yes I do. It's where his heart is, he needed and desreved a head coaching opportunity but he loves Miami and oxford. We all have learned in the coaching profession there is no right thing. He wouldnt leave for anywhere but Miami IMO, but then again don't think any school would go after him but Miami. All speculation, I don't think Rico will leave anytime soon but things can change.

 

[sbkbghockey]

Re: BG Hockey Predictions

I would say BG's future does indeed look much brighter from one fact alone, that they chose NOT to hire their distinguished alumnus John Markell as head coach as rumor in Columbus had him in contention for.

I heard that rumor too, I think he was on the possibilities list for BG. I think he's could be a good coach, but I like that they went outside the alumni to hire Bergeron! As far as Markell, Penn State is hiring