How are NCAA Division I lacrosse rankings determined. What factors influence a team’s ranking in college lacrosse. Which teams consistently rank at the top of NCAA Division I lacrosse. How do college lacrosse rankings impact recruitment and program prestige.
Understanding NCAA Division I Lacrosse Rankings
NCAA Division I lacrosse rankings play a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape of college lacrosse. These rankings serve as a benchmark for team performance, influence recruitment, and contribute to program prestige. But how exactly are these rankings determined?
The rankings are typically compiled by various organizations, including the NCAA itself, media outlets, and coaches’ associations. They take into account factors such as win-loss records, strength of schedule, quality wins, and historical performance. Rankings are usually updated weekly during the season, reflecting the dynamic nature of team performances.
Key Factors Influencing Rankings
- Win-loss record
- Strength of schedule
- Quality wins against top-ranked opponents
- Margin of victory
- Historical program success
Do rankings always accurately reflect a team’s true strength? While rankings provide a general indication of team performance, they are not infallible. Upsets and unexpected performances can sometimes challenge the established rankings, adding an element of excitement to the sport.
Top-Performing Teams in NCAA Division I Lacrosse
Certain programs have consistently dominated the NCAA Division I lacrosse rankings over the years. These powerhouse teams have built strong traditions of success, attracting top talent and maintaining high levels of performance year after year.
Perennial Contenders
- Syracuse University
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Virginia
- University of Maryland
- Duke University
These teams have not only consistently ranked highly but have also claimed multiple national championships. Their success is often attributed to a combination of excellent coaching, strong recruitment programs, and a culture of excellence within their lacrosse programs.
Can emerging programs challenge these established powerhouses? While the top ranks have been dominated by traditional powers, programs like Denver University and Loyola Maryland have shown that it’s possible for newer contenders to break into the elite ranks with the right combination of talent, coaching, and program development.
Impact of Rankings on Recruitment and Program Development
NCAA Division I lacrosse rankings have a significant influence beyond mere numbers. They play a crucial role in shaping the future of programs through their impact on recruitment and overall program prestige.
High rankings can create a positive feedback loop for programs. Top-ranked teams are more likely to attract elite high school recruits, which in turn helps maintain their competitive edge. This cycle of success can lead to sustained periods of dominance for certain programs.
Recruitment Advantages of High-Ranked Programs
- Increased visibility to potential recruits
- Perception of program success and stability
- Opportunity to compete for national championships
- Enhanced media coverage and exposure
How do lower-ranked programs compete for top talent? While challenging, lower-ranked programs can still attract quality recruits by offering unique value propositions such as playing time opportunities, academic excellence, or specialized coaching. Some athletes may prefer the challenge of helping to build a program rather than joining an established powerhouse.
The Role of Conference Play in NCAA Lacrosse Rankings
Conference play is a critical component of NCAA Division I lacrosse rankings. Strong performances within a conference can significantly boost a team’s national ranking, while poor conference records can lead to drops in the rankings.
Some conferences, such as the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the Big Ten, are known for their particularly competitive lacrosse programs. Success in these conferences often translates to higher national rankings due to the perceived strength of the competition.
Major Lacrosse Conferences
- Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC)
- Big Ten Conference
- Ivy League
- Patriot League
- Big East Conference
Does conference affiliation unfairly advantage certain teams in the rankings? This is a subject of ongoing debate in college lacrosse. While playing in a strong conference can boost a team’s profile, it can also make it more challenging to maintain a high ranking due to the difficulty of the schedule.
The Evolution of Lacrosse Rankings: From Traditional to Data-Driven
The methodology behind NCAA Division I lacrosse rankings has evolved significantly over the years. Traditional ranking systems relied heavily on win-loss records and subjective evaluations by coaches and media members. However, modern ranking systems are increasingly incorporating advanced analytics and data-driven approaches.
These new methodologies aim to provide a more objective and comprehensive evaluation of team performance. They often include factors such as possession efficiency, shot quality, and defensive metrics that go beyond simple win-loss records.
Components of Modern Ranking Systems
- Advanced statistical analysis
- Strength of schedule adjustments
- Predictive modeling
- Historical performance data
Are data-driven rankings more accurate than traditional methods? While data-driven approaches offer more depth and objectivity, they are not without controversy. Some argue that they fail to capture intangible factors such as team chemistry or momentum. The debate between traditional and modern ranking methodologies continues to shape the landscape of college lacrosse.
The Relationship Between Rankings and NCAA Tournament Selection
NCAA Division I lacrosse rankings play a crucial role in the selection and seeding process for the NCAA tournament. While the tournament committee considers various factors, a team’s ranking throughout the season significantly influences their chances of receiving an at-large bid and their seeding in the tournament.
The NCAA tournament features 18 teams, with 10 automatic qualifiers (conference champions) and 8 at-large bids. The selection committee uses the rankings, along with other criteria, to determine which teams receive at-large bids and how the tournament is seeded.
Factors Considered in Tournament Selection
- Overall record
- Strength of schedule
- RPI (Ratings Percentage Index)
- Quality wins
- Head-to-head results
Can a lower-ranked team with a strong finish to the season earn an at-large bid over a higher-ranked team? Yes, this scenario is possible. The selection committee considers a team’s entire body of work, including their performance in the latter part of the season. A strong finish, particularly with quality wins, can sometimes outweigh a higher overall ranking.
International Influence on NCAA Lacrosse Rankings
While NCAA Division I lacrosse is primarily a North American phenomenon, international influences are increasingly shaping the sport and its rankings. The globalization of lacrosse has led to an influx of international talent into college programs, diversifying playing styles and elevating the overall level of competition.
Countries such as Canada, Australia, and England have produced numerous players who have made significant impacts on top-ranked NCAA programs. This international flavor has added new dimensions to the game and influenced how teams are evaluated and ranked.
Major International Contributors to NCAA Lacrosse
- Canada
- Australia
- England
- Israel
- Japan
How does the international growth of lacrosse impact NCAA rankings? As the sport continues to grow globally, we may see shifts in how teams are ranked. Programs that successfully integrate international talent and diverse playing styles may gain advantages that are reflected in their rankings. Additionally, the increased global interest may lead to more comprehensive and internationally recognized ranking systems in the future.
The landscape of NCAA Division I lacrosse rankings is complex and ever-evolving. From the traditional powerhouses to emerging programs, from data-driven analytics to international influences, these rankings reflect the dynamic nature of college lacrosse. As the sport continues to grow and evolve, so too will the systems and methodologies used to rank its top performers. Understanding these rankings provides valuable insights into the competitive world of college lacrosse, influencing everything from recruitment to tournament selections and shaping the future of this exciting sport.
ODAC
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May 20, 2023
Lynchburg Falls to Tufts in NCAA Quarterfinals
The University of Lynchburg men’s lacrosse team made things interesting in the second and third quarters, but a 9-1 Tufts run to open the…
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May 20, 2023
Generals’ Rally Come Up Short in NCAA Loss to Salisbury
The Washington and Lee men’s lacrosse team found its groove late with a 6-3 run over the final 22:44, but it was not enough to overcome…
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May 14, 2023
Lynchburg Advances to NCAA Men’s Lax Quarterfinals
Time to start checking the weather in Massachusetts.
At the moment, it looks like 70 degrees and rainy next week in the northern…
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May 14, 2023
Generals Advance to NCAA Men’s Lax Quarterfinals
A final 3-0 run over the remaining nine minutes of play propelled the ninth-ranked Washington and Lee men’s lacrosse team past Grove City,…
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Standings
2023 ODAC Men’s Lacrosse Standings
| School | Conf | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| Lynchburg | 8-1 | 15-7 |
| Hampden-Sydney | 8-1 | 13-5 |
| Washington and Lee | 7-2 | 18-5 |
| Randolph-Macon | 7-2 | 12-6 |
| Roanoke | 6-3 | 11-8 |
| Bridgewater | 5-4 | 8-8 |
| Shenandoah | 5-4 | 9-10 |
| Guilford | 3-6 | 7-8 |
| Virginia Wesleyan | 2-7 | 6-10 |
| Averett | 1-8 | 3-11 |
| Ferrum | 1-8 | 3-11 |
| Randolph | 1-8 | 2-13 |
Players of The Week
Riley Hastings Lynchburg Fy.
Attackman May 01, 2023
Hastings, a first-year from Alpharetta, Ga., posted eight points over two games to help nationally 13th-ranked Lynchburg clinch the top seed in the ODAC tournament. Hastings scored once and dished out an assist in a 24-5 win at Guilford during the…
Tyler Hadley Lynchburg Sr. Goalkeeper May 01, 2023
Hadley, a senior from Summit, N.J., allowed just four goals and made 20 saves on an 83.3 save percentage over two ODAC wins to help the nationally 13th-ranked Lynchburg secure the top seed in the upcoming ODAC tournament. During the midweek, Hadley…
Hudson Pokorny Washington and Lee Sr. Attackman April 24, 2023
Pokorny, a senior from Darien, Conn., earns his second weekly award of the season after helping nationally eighth-ranked Washington and Lee to a trio of victories in a three-game week following finals at W&L. Pokorny helped head coach Gene McCabe.
..
Warren Seeds Washington and Lee Sr. Goalkeeper April 24, 2023
Seeds, a senior from Atlanta, Ga., helped nationally eighth-ranked Washington and Lee to a trio of victories following finals week at the Lexington-based campus. Seeds started all three wins and made 27 saves on a 55.1 save percentage with a 9.78…
Ethan Robinette Randolph-Macon So. Midfielder April 17, 2023
Robinette, a sophomore from Charlotte, N.C., put together an eight-point week in helping Randolph-Macon post a pair of ODAC victories to improve to 5-2 in the conference table. That included a 13-9 triumph over nationally eighth-ranked Lynchburg in…
Owen Gucwa Randolph-Macon Fr. Goalkeeper April 17, 2023
Gucwa, a freshman from Raleigh, N.C., allowed just 12 goals and made 17 saves in 85:52 in goal in a 2-0 week against ODAC foes including a 13-9 triumph over nationally eighth-ranked Lynchburg, marking the program’s first win over the Hornets since.
..
Jake Rust Lynchburg Jr. Attackman April 10, 2023
Rust, a junior from Windham, N.H., helped nationally 10th-ranked Lynchburg to a pair of ODAC victories last week to keep the Hornets unblemished and tied with Hampden-Sydney at 5-0 atop the league table. Rust registered a 10-point week over Lynchburg…
Thomas Harry Hampden-Sydney Jr. Defenseman April 10, 2023
Harry, a junior from Troy, Va., was a turnover causing machine for Hampden-Sydney last week, helping the Tigers earn two ODAC wins to stay tied atop the league table a 5-0 with Lynchburg. Harry combined to cause nine turnovers in road wins at…
Luke Kammerman Roanoke Jr. Attackman April 03, 2023
Kammerman, a junior from Trumbull, conn., posted a 14-point week to help Roanoke post a pair of conference wins and sit 4-0 atop the ODAC table. Kammerman began his week with five points on four goals and an assist in a 26-7 win at Guilford during.
..
Will Perry Hampden-Sydney Sr. Goalkeeper April 03, 2023
Perry, a senior from Roanoke, Va., played a big role in Hampden-Sydney staying unbeaten in the ODAC table and within striking distance of the USILA’s top-20 with a pair of conference wins last week including a quadruple-overtime thriller over…
Riley Mitchell Lynchburg Sr. Midfielder March 27, 2023
Mitchell, a senior from Owings Mills, Md., picked the right time to notch a career-high for points as he came up in the clutch twice to help nationally 13th-ranked Lynchburg post a 14-13 victory in overtime at #6 Washington and Lee, marking the…
Tyler Hadley Lynchburg Sr. Goalkeeper March 27, 2023
Hadley, a senior from Summit, N.J., turned in a strong outing in a top-10 matchup as nationally 13th-ranked Lynchburg held on and posted a 14-13 victory in overtime over #6 Washington and Lee on Saturday.
Hadley matched his career-high 22 saves on a…
Wyatt Whitlow Roanoke Jr. Attackman March 20, 2023
Whitlow, a junior from Salem, Va., put together an 11-point week in leading Roanoke to a pair of non-conference victories last week. In a 13-11 triumph over the University of Mary Washington, Whitlow registered three points on two goals and an…
Gaines Weis Hampden-Sydney So. Midfielder March 20, 2023
Weis, a sophomore from Richmond, Va., helped Hampden-Sydney collect a pair of wins last week including the Tigers first league victory of the year. Weis caused a pair of turnovers in a 10-5 victory over Ohio Northern University. He added a trio of…
Gabriel Alexander Bridgewater Jr. Face-Off Specialist March 13, 2023
Alexander, a junior from Chesterfield, Va., won 78.9-percent (30-of-38) of his face-offs in helping Bridgewater go 1-1 against non-conference competition last week.
In a tight 15-13 win over Misericordia, Alexander set a pair of Eagles records with…
Tyler Hadley Lynchburg Sr. Goalkeeper March 13, 2023
Hadley, a senior from Summit, N.J., picks up his third ODAC defensive weekly honor after helping nationally ninth-ranked Lynchburg hold Stevenson University to just eight goals in a 12-8 win over the Mustangs, who were receiving votes towards the…
Mark Sprague Virginia Wesleyan Sr. Attack March 06, 2023
Sprague, a senior from Marshall, Va., was prolific in two wins for Virginia Wesleyan last week, improving the Marlins record to 3-1 with their first ODAC game on tap this week. Sprague registered 20 points for the week on 10 goals and 10 assists. He…
Tyler Carney Bridgewater Jr. Goalkeeper March 06, 2023
Carney, a junior from Delaware, Ohio, helped the Eagles improve to 2-0 on the young season with a 12-10 comeback victory at Piedmont University.
Carney faced 49 total shots with 25 on-cage during his 60-minute shift. He made 15 saves at a 60.0 save…
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Stat Leaders
Field Players
Points
Hudson Pokorny
Washington and Lee
109
Luke Kammerman
Roanoke
91
Jack Smith
Randolph-Macon
87
Hillis Burns
Washington and Lee
81
Wyatt Whitlow
Roanoke
69
Complete Leaders
Goals
Wyatt Whitlow
Roanoke
58
Hillis Burns
Washington and Lee
52
Hudson Pokorny
Washington and Lee
50
Chris Martel
Bridgewater
47
Ray O’Brien
Hampden-Sydney
46
Complete Leaders
Assists
Hudson Pokorny
Washington and Lee
59
Jack Smith
Randolph-Macon
50
Luke Kammerman
Roanoke
45
Connor McLean
Bridgewater
45
Julian Kammerman
Roanoke
37
Complete Leaders
Goalkeepers
Goals-against average
Warren Seeds
Washington and Lee
8.
16
Will Perry
Hampden-Sydney
9.57
Ryan Boyd
Washington and Lee
10.24
Tyler Hadley
Lynchburg
10.50
Alex Feuer
Roanoke
11.12
Complete Leaders
Goalkeepers
Goals against
Allen Shaw
Virginia Wesleyan
79
Ryan Boyd
Washington and Lee
94
Warren Seeds
Washington and Lee
101
Alex Feuer
Roanoke
129
Will Perry
Hampden-Sydney
134
Complete Leaders
Goals-against average
Warren Seeds
Washington and Lee
8.
16
Will Perry
Hampden-Sydney
9.57
Ryan Boyd
Washington and Lee
10.24
Tyler Hadley
Lynchburg
10.50
Alex Feuer
Roanoke
11.12
Complete Leaders
Saves
Tyler Hadley
Lynchburg
268
Cameron Prutzman
Averett
244
Mark Isabelle
Shenandoah
224
Adam Ulffers
Randolph
202
Tyler Carney
Bridgewater
170
Complete Leaders
Save pct
Tyler Hadley
Lynchburg
58.
4
Warren Seeds
Washington and Lee
55.7
Alex Feuer
Roanoke
53.3
Will Perry
Hampden-Sydney
52.7
Tyler Carney
Bridgewater
51.5
Complete Leaders
Load More
Quint Kessenich’s Top 20: Preseason Rankings
Quint Kessenich being the latest contributor to the Lacrosse All Stars’ team means that he will be releasing his weekly Top 20 rankings every Monday. With a full slate of games lined up for this weekend, we found it appropriate to release Quint’s preseason Top 20 rankings.
There is certainly a lot to be excited about this upcoming college lacrosse season. We are finally back to non-conference play, the Ivy League is back in action, and Virginia has the opportunity to make history by securing the three-peat.
2022 officially starts now.
Twitter: @QKessenich
Instagram: @quintekessenich
Facebook: Quint Kessenich
LinkedIn: Quint Kessenich
🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨 Lacrosse expert and media force, Quint Kessenich (@QKessenich), is joining the team at Lacrosse All Stars! The ESPN sportscaster will become a regular content contributor via editorial, podcasts, & more.
Welcome to the team, Quint! 👏https://t.co/Z8AfVhOZ62 pic.twitter.com/rh9Uj706qP
— Lacrosse All Stars (@LaxAllStars) February 4, 2022
QUINT KESSENICH’S TOP 20: PRESEASON RANKINGS
20: Delaware
The tweetie birds upgraded their schedule that now includes St Joe’s, Duke, Michigan, Johns Hopkins, and Villanova. January scrimmages against Richmond, Georgetown, and Maryland strengthened the squad. Their ten win 2021 season came to a crashing halt in the league semifinals via a Hofstra upset.
This exciting team will be a prime contender for the CAA automatic-qualifier bid and much more with Mike Robinson, Tye Kurtz, Cam Acchione, Mark Bieda and Matt Acchione spraying heat this season. The Colonial race is pure fire in 2022 and the league soon gets a facelift by adding Hampton, Monmouth, and Stony Brook next year. I’ll keep Delaware here in the preseason rankings for the moment with Richmond on standby.
2⃣0⃣2⃣2⃣ @CAASports 🥍 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬!
Offensive MVP ✔️ @Mrobinson_19
Defensive MVP ✔️@owenngrantt
All-CAA ✔️ @cam_acchione I Matt Kilkeary I @2Kurtzy
Tied for a league-best 5⃣ honorees ✔️📰 https://t.co/G08tG6Cdtu#BlueHens pic.twitter.com/wj2E6S3oh5
— Delaware Men’s Lacrosse (@DelawareMLAX) January 27, 2022
19: Johns Hopkins
An historically ugly (4-9) 2021 slate ended with hope for the future, but a taxing 2022 schedule offers no reprieve for a roster with ample skill level and one that showcased snappy passing in the fall.
If the Jays take-off from where they left off in the 2021 Big Ten tournament, they’ll compete for a playoff spot. Understand that there’s little room for regression or a slow start.
Many questions remain surrounding this Johns Hopkins team. Will they be a .500 team? Can Hopkins defend against elite teams? Make consistent saves? Can they run with ACC athletes? Can they scoop up ground balls and not commit unforced turnovers? Do they have dodgers who can draw slides?
“We Want More” opens with Jacksonville on February 5th before facing Towson, Georgetown, Loyola, UNC, Virginia, Syracuse in the winter portion of the season, prior to Big Ten action. The answers to those questions await ahead. Buckle up.
Michigan, who dusted Syracuse in a January scrimmage, could also be considered for this No.19 slot in this preseason ranking.
#WeWantMore
📸: @grayson_jons pic.twitter.com/ruey8uQHfK
— JHU Men’s Lacrosse (@jhumenslacrosse) February 2, 2022
18: Navy
The Midshipmen non-conference schedule is awful in every way.
Take me back to when Navy played everybody. In 2004, Navy played seven Top 20 teams prior to their NCAA playoff run. In 2022, they face only two teams in the Top 30 outside of the Patriot League being High Point and Hopkins.
Teams don’t improve by playing bottom feeders. Don’t confuse a teams’ record with their true ability/quality. Navy midfielder Patrick Skalniak runs like the wind, and may have a bust-out season. The defense is young. There is a rising tide in Annapolis, and the recruiting wins will eventually show up on the scoreboard.
America East teams Vermont, Albany, UMBC, and Stony Brook all deserve consideration for spots in the preseason rankings Top 20. The league is geographically diverse and deep, for the moment.
GAME WEEK! Working to get better everyday. Season opener Saturday!#Together #GoNavy⚓️🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/pq7PSk8m4P
— Navy Men’s Lacrosse (@navymlax) February 1, 2022
17: High Point
The reining SoCon Champions will wrestle Richmond for the belt amongst a group that continues to upgrade and climb the national ladder.
This preseason ranking could have easily been awarded to the Spiders – it feels that close.
The purple Panthers open at Maryland on February 5 and play Virginia, Navy, Duke, and North Carolina – as the defacto sixth ACC team. Asher Noting throws laser-beam skip passes and his supporting cast is eclectic. Coach Jon Torpey has done terrific work tailoring his offensive and defensive schemes to the roster showing flexibility and mid-season adaptation to current strengths and weaknesses.
𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐍𝐨𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
📸 @frechisfetch #KTS x #GoHPU pic.twitter.com/bD6EuzTAQT
— High Point Lacrosse (@HPUMensLax) January 31, 2022
16: Princeton
Chris Brown and Alex Slushier are the main guys on offense with George Baughn anchoring the defense. It has been over 700 days since the Tigers took the field for a game, and the six-time NCAA Champs haven’t won a playoff game since 2009, so all bets are off.
I think it’s safe to take a “wait and see” approach with all of the Ivy League schools. Cornell is in the same boat as it’s hard to endorse the Ivies in the preseason rankings without inside information. We just don’t have enough data until they put a product on film. Although, I feel generally bullish on Princeton and Cornell.
Feb 1‼️ #GoTigers 🥍🐅 pic.twitter.com/yZtM83vmey
— Princeton Men’s Lacrosse (@TigerLacrosse) February 1, 2022
15: Bryant
The Bulldogs (9-4) won the NEC in 2021 and they scared the daylights out of Virginia last May. Coach Mike Pressler has some defensive openings to fill. Marc O’Rourke, Logan McGovern and Luke Caracciolo lead the offensive charge. O’Rourke had 25 points in the last five games of the spring and has 112 career markers. If Bryant were a stock, I’d be buying. Carc has been pumping this team up all winter. They have a sense of identity plus quality players and are sitting on a big spring.
Perfect day to get back out on Beirne pic.twitter.com/HZr8z7lAWI
— Bryant Men’s Lacrosse (@Bryant_MLax) January 20, 2022
14: Drexel
Dragon-breath nearly torched Notre Dame in the playoffs last May, falling with 1:19 left in the game and a goal short. Coach Brian Voelker reloads with a deep cast including point producers Sean Donnelly and Aidan Coll. The defense is anchored by net minder Ross Blumenthal. Drexel opens at UMBC on February 19th and will host the CAA playoffs at Vidas Field in May.
Dragons Picked to Repeat as CAA Champions
Five Dragons Named to CAA’s Preseason Team
STORY | https://t.co/psN4LubkiB pic.twitter.com/VrGZQzeWGJ
— Drexel Men’s Lax (@DrexelMLax) January 27, 2022
13: Denver
Familiar names like Morrill, Ierlan, Walker, Squires and Logan no longer reside in the Mile High City.
The production loss is staggering and makes ranking then this preseason difficult. Midfield punch is what coach Bill Tierney will rely upon while the other facets develop. Alex Simmons and Jack Hannah may be the nations scariest one-two combo from out front. The Pioneers duck nobody, squaring off against Duke, North Carolina, Ohio State, Towson, and Yale outside of the Big East. No pressure. No diamonds.
✌️ days to go.#PioneerTogether pic.twitter.com/u4iOWVf4CB
— Denver Men’s Lacrosse (@DU_MLAX) February 3, 2022
12: Army
The Black Knights defend, that’s been a constant for coach Joe Alberici. With the ball, Brendan Nichtern is a one-man show behind the cage. Can Army bust through and play their best ball in April and May? Do they have midfielders who can score? The Patriot League appears to be strong in 2022, there’s legit quality – although its unlikely three Patriot teams can mathematically reside in the top 12.
Army plays UMass, Rutgers, Syracuse, and Cornell out of conference providing an ample opportunity to make some noise. Snubbed last spring from the NCAA’s as the odd man out, Army has fuel for the fight.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬
𝙁𝘼𝙈𝙄𝙇𝙔: 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴#GoArmy | #FamilyToughnessTradition pic.twitter.com/WdAqbBFilh
— Army M.Lacrosse (@ArmyWP_MLax) February 3, 2022
11: Rutgers
Sloppy clearing cost the Scarlet Knights a trip to Championship Weekend last season. The attack is decimated by graduation and face-offs remain a question mark. The rope unit and midfield depth are both excellent, so NASCAR is in effect for the Jersey boys. Rekindling magic isn’t easy.
Bada bing. Bada bang. Bada boom. Goalie Colin Kirst is by a large margin, the best in the country. I love everything about his style. With the shot clock, goalies are difference makers. Rutgers was slow to slide allowing Kirst to make saves off of isolations not ball movement.
To his credit, coach Brian Brecht was again aggressive in the transfer portal.
He’s recognized the opportunity in this era of free movement and has rolled out the red carpet to newcomers. The 2022 schedule is softish, which leaves little room for error. I do expect Ohio State, Johns Hopkins, Penn State, and Michigan to all be improved in 2022, as they can’t possibly be worse than they were a year ago – especially on defense where the Big Ten was atrocious.
#RUMLax puts three on the USILA Preseason All-American list!
Jaryd Jean-Felix, Colin Kirst and Shane Knobloch recognized as Third Team selections
📰: https://t.co/gjeuXXnn94 pic.twitter.com/PIf5CASprb
— Rutgers Men’s LAX (@RUmlax) February 3, 2022
10: Penn
The Quakes are an Ivy contender with Sam Handley (35G, 26A) bulldozing his way to Franklin Field pay-dirt. 61 points for a freshman midfielder – no one has ever done that.
LSM BJ Farrare stirs it up as well. Give coach Mike Murphy credit for scheduling Duke, Georgetown, Villanova, Albany and Penn State, a robust non-conference offering which certainly helps this teams’ preseason ranking.
⏳⏳#ILPL // #FightOnPenn🔴🔵 pic.twitter.com/jQ2gPfKpyc
— Penn Men’s Lacrosse (@PennMensLax) February 1, 2022
9: Lehigh
Disappointing NCAA home loss to Rutgers left a bad taste in Mountaineer mouths after a breakout ten-win season. Tommy Schelling, Christian Mule, Cole Kirst, FOGO Mike Sisselberger, Teddy Leggett, and goalie James Spence hope to plant flags in the Patriot League this year. The non-league schedule includes Hobart, Cornell, and Georgetown meaning there isn’t much wiggle room RPI-wise to mess up.
The moment you’ve all been waiting for 🥍🔜
Full story: https://t.co/diWGgs3966#WinToday #PSDT pic.
twitter.com/QSB1NYcByP
— Lehigh Lacrosse (@LehighLacrosse) January 10, 2022
twitter.com/QSB1NYcByP8: Loyola
The Hounds have the ingredients for a tasty year. They also have the one of the nations most daunting schedule that includes non-league tilts against Maryland, Hopkins, Rutgers, Towson, and Duke. A less than stellar showing in a January scrimmage against Richmond certainly opened eyes in the preseason rankings.
Kevin Lindley and Aidan Olmsted spearhead an offense orchestrated by offensive coordinator Marc Van Arsdale. Gang green remains dangerous in early offense (first 15 seconds of possession), and then again late in the shot clock by probing favorable match-ups. Transition starts with Sam Shaffer saves and well spaced “get-outs” featuring pole Ryan McNulty and hungry shorties. Historically, success and failure for the Hounds hinges on midfield production in the six-on-six matchups.
Ridley Athletic Complex is home to the most boisterous student section in the country and the culture under coach Charley Toomey is second to none.
Loyola plays at Maryland on February 12 and at Hopkins on February 19.
New lid for @LoyolaMLAX #uniswag pic.twitter.com/eYqCEU1yOE
— UNISWAG (@UNISWAG) January 31, 2022
7: North Carolina
Three battle-tested midfielders and an All-American defenseman depart, but don’t feel sorry for the Heels. ACC POY Chris Gray (49G, 42A) is the headliner, his tool box has no boundaries. He should be a top selection in the PLL Collegiate Draft. Gray is supported by Nicky Solomon and Lance Tillman. While the midfielders may be inexperienced, they are athletic and talented. Ty English leads a No.1 rated freshman class.
Defensively in 2021, UNC wore down late in the shot clock, in the fourth quarter, and late in the season. Potential solution, when you’re tired, play more people to stay wired. The Heels face-off against Richmond on February 11th (ACCNetwork).
Coach Joe Breschi’s positivity will be tested in April when they run the gauntlet of Duke, Virginia, Syracuse, Notre Dame, and Duke again in consecutive weeks – such is life in the ACC, as televised by the ACCNetwork.
The league is still the gold standard, but I don’t think the ACC can be as dominant in 2022 as they were a year ago. Going 40-4 in out of conference matchups, the four hiccups being Army and Georgetown beating Syracuse, while Maryland took down Notre Dame and Duke in the tourney.
Congratulations to Chris Gray and Connor Maher for being named USILA First-Team All-America!
🔗 https://t.co/G4kU4tj7CU#GoHeels | #FamilyAcademicsLacrosse pic.twitter.com/FelVfiLPok
— UNC Men’s Lacrosse (@UNCMensLacrosse) February 2, 2022
6: Notre Dame
The Irish were the best 50 minute team in the country in 2021, they just couldn’t seal the deal. The offense should produce eye-pooping highlights with the Kavanagh brothers, Chris and Pat who’ll be wearing No.50 and No.51. These brothers are must-see TV. Face-offs may be an issue and coach Kevin Corrigan has to replace a pair of starting defensemen and a bagpiper.
Rudy’s first midfield group will be “Time, room, bullseye”, with sophomore Eric Dobson, flanked by graduate students Wheaton Jackoboice, and Morrison ‘Mo” Mirer. Golden Domers looking to hoist the evasive gold trophy. They begin with Detroit Mercy on February 19th.
Can’t wait see more of this on Sunday in our final exhibition of the season inside Loftus!#GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/aD2Fx9yK4C
— Notre Dame Lacrosse (@NDlacrosse) February 2, 2022
5: Yale
Good luck trying to gauge the Ivy teams in early 2022. The known quantities at Yale are attackman Matt Brandau, defender Chris Fake and mid-fielders Brian Tevlin and Thomas Bragg. Factor in two classes of high profile recruits in New Haven including attacker Leo Johnson. Coach Andy Shay knows how to bake the New Haven pizza, the crust are effort plays, a ten-man zone ride, and smothered with grit.
Yale has many reasons to be excited this season.
The chance to shake off the Covid cancellation rust, Yale has a new dog mascot, and I can’t wait to workout at the new Tsai Lacrosse Field House, putting Anish to work in his designer lifting gloves.
Back to work. #ThisIsYale pic.twitter.com/ix1PekYfnz
— Yale Men’s Lacrosse (@YaleLacrosse) February 2, 2022
4: Duke
Blue Devils underachieved in 2021 finishing with a flop after a season that showed glimpses of excellence. Five of their fourteen wins were won by a single goal. The 2021 team wasn’t elite in the middle of the field and the constant rotation of midfield lines felt unusual.
Duke wins with talent and fundamentals – their schemes are vanilla but when executed well, become unstoppable. Style wise, they don’t ride hard, seldom push tempo, and generally try to win via efficiency in half-field sets. The formula captured titles in 2010, 2013, and 2014 with Final Four appearances most recently in 2018, 2019, and 2021.
Turning the page, the roster is overflowing in Durham. Penn grad transfer Sean Lulley joins a potent bunch that includes Brennan Oneil, Joe Robertson, Nakeie Montgomery, Owen Caputo, and lefty Dyson Williams. Freshman Andrew McAdorey is a weapon from any angle. Not to mention defenders Kenny Brower, Tyler Carpenter, or goalie Mike Adler. Lets see if this rendition puts the puzzle pieces together. Chemistry is the question. They kick things off on February 4th hosting Robert Morris and then turn around and play Vermont on Sunday February 6th at Koskinen.
B doing what he does best…scoring goals. #GoDuke | 🔵😈🥍 pic.twitter.com/iNl6umPPVf
— Duke Men’s Lacrosse (@DukeMLAX) January 28, 2022
3: Georgetown
The Hoyas won a playoff game in 2021 and then got a taste of the big time in a quarterfinal thrashing at the hands of Virginia which was sobering and sudden. The Swamp Dogs have a talented roster bolstered by the most impactful transfer in defender Will Bowen from UNC.
Georgetown will always be a defense-first organization, and their slide and recover packages are air-tight. DeClan McDermott, lefty Dylan Watson, Graham Bundy Jr. and TJ Haley are the hub of the offense. Redistributing 153 shots from Jake Caraway will be no easy task however. They bring back their FOGO, top two defenders, goalie, and top shorty, Zach Geddes.
Coach Kevin Warne, a diehard Jets fan, has upgraded the schedule with Hopkins, Penn, Notre Dame, and Princeton, a far cry from their annual diet of cupcakes. The Hoyas must avoid eating the preseason rat poison if they want to remain this high in the rankings.
A few more 📸 of Friday’s action. Thanks to @DelawareMlax for making their way down to the #DMV.#HOYASAXA | #GATA pic.twitter.com/ATRYN4J7rK
— Georgetown MLacrosse (@HoyasMLacrosse) January 29, 2022
2: Maryland
The Terps went 15-1 and came up a goal shy in the NCAA finals.
“Be the Best” has put together a decade of excellence, undeniable success only lacking in Monday moments, outside of Rambo & Co. in 2017. The 2022 version of this team is loaded, experienced, and the best class in the Big Ten.
Can lefty Logan Wisnauskas be as productive without Jared Bernhardt drawing double teams? Bubba Fairman returns for a fifth season at midfield but I would anticipate more transitional opportunities for the Utah native. Jonathan Donville transferred from Cornell and this kid can pass. Eric Malever, a sophomore from Atlanta, is a trigger man from X. Seems like the ageless Anthony DeMaio ran shifts with Tom Worstell. Kyle Long is twitchy and demands doubles. Daniel Maltz roams the slot area and has adept finishing skills.
Hopkins transfer Owen Murphy is skilled and can contribute to offensive coordinator Bob Benson’s entourage. Villanova transfer Keegan Khan will be in the mix for playing time. First and second year players will be hard pressed to crack the top six.
These Terps share the rock and score multiple pass goals with position-less players who flow in the half court. Maryland is a great restart team that wins the whistle, always a step ahead, and ready to capitalize on mistakes.
You ready #TerpNation?
We play lacrosse this week 🔥#BeTheBest pic.twitter.com/ttcYQsE2Iq
— Maryland Lacrosse (@TerpsMLax) January 30, 2022
Brett Makar headlines the close defense after flashing in the 2021 playoffs. Matt Rahill is a veteran piece of the puzzle. It appears as if the Terps have a race for the third spot in training camp. Roman Puglise is rock-solid at the SSDM position. I love the potential of LSM John Goeppert. No.20 who made plays with his stick and feet in the NCAA final against Virginia. Jake Higgins, the often forgotten No.57, was the Terps fire-starter before getting injured. His return to action is huge and adds depth to a group that was overworked in May.
Goalie Logan McNaney, now a junior, will look to take that next step to greatness.
With a five-day week to prepare, “Be the Best” has been virtually unstoppable. They have a dominant record in NCAA quarterfinal and semifinal games under I-pad toting Coach John Tillman. However, however the Terps have not been able to deliver a peak performance on short rest and preparation – in the Big Ten title game and on Memorial Day as well. Too often it hasn’t been their A+ level game.
I don’t mean to throw shade here as this isn’t a one year trend, it’s a decade-long occurrence. A problem that others would die for. Runner-up finishes in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016, and 2021 illustrate the point. Adjusting the weekly training schedule to better fire on all cylinders on Memorial Day makes sense.
Terps open with High Point February 5th and tackle Loyola, Syracuse, and Princeton in the month of February.
One last tune up before the real deal next weekend 💪#FridayFeeling x #BeTheBest pic.
— Maryland Lacrosse (@TerpsMLax) January 28, 2022
twitter.com/GfxfYxsXIU1: Virginia
The Cavalier “Cultural Thursdays” and book club offerings have become the bedrock of Coach Lars Tiffany’s program, the National Champions from 2019 and 2021. Any talk of 2022 starts with Connor Shellenberger and Matt Moore, a one-two combination without any equal in D1 lacrosse. Offensive coordinator Matt Kirwan has the luxury of this two quarterback system that exploits match-up advantages.
Payton Cormier, the Oakville Ox, is sitting on a monster season, playing opposite the two prodigies. No.1 recruit Griffin Schutz (6’3″ 220lbs) will be in the rotation from up-top. Midfielder Jeff Conner sprung to life, finishing with a flourish in the NCAA tournament. Righty Pete Garno carries a hammer and Xander Dickson offers invert options.
Petey LaSalla is a game changing FOGO who won 62% in 2021 and had (10G,7A). It’ll be Jurassic Park Part 2, “The Return of the Sauroposiedon”, on defense with Cade Saustad (6’5″), Cole Kastler (6’7″), Ben Wayer (6’3″), Quentin Matsui (6’0″), Scott Bower (6’3″), and freshman George Fulton (6’6″) roaming Klockner.
