Buckle up and crank the heat for the "number one college hockey radio show in the nation." On this brutally cold morning, Coach Dean Wilson and the crew dive deep into a massive night of college hockey action, headlined by the University of North Dakota’s dominant shutout victory over the Denver Pioneers. With "Crazy Eddie" on assignment, the guys break down the grit, the glory, and the old-time hockey spirit that still defines the game today.
The episode features an exclusive interview with UND associate head coach Dane Jackson, who discusses the importance of goaltending depth and the "two-man forecheck" that has the Fighting Hawks soaring. From Olympic roster announcements to the legendary coaching trees of the Midwest, this is a masterclass in hockey culture, recruitment, and the relentless pursuit of a national championship.
Key Moments
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Shutout at the Ralph The guys analyze UND’s 5-0 statement win over Denver. Coach Jackson highlights the "human nature" of back-to-back series and why veteran leadership from transfer portal players like Anthony Mangini and Ellis Rickwood is the secret sauce for a deep postseason run.
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The Goalie Gauntlet A deep dive into UND's crease where Jan Spunar, Gibson Homer, and Zach Sandy are pushing each other daily. Coach Jackson explains why you need "more than one goaltender" to survive the grind of the national tournament.
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Olympic Dreams and Three Generations Big news for the family tree: Brock Nelson makes the USA Olympic hockey team, marking three generations of Olympic participation. The guys discuss the "trifecta" of gold medals and the strength of the current USA and Canadian rosters.
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Old-Time Hockey in the Big Ten Jeff and Dean recap Michigan State’s upset over Wisconsin, highlighting a "persisting misconduct" penalty and the physical "makeup calls" that brought a touch of 1920s grit back to the ice.
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Building the Architect’s Staff Coach Jackson discusses his "all-UND" coaching staff, featuring Matt Smabee, Dylan Simpson, and Brian Chizik. The conversation shifts to leadership philosophy—why great head coaches aren't afraid to hire assistants who might be "smarter" or better than them.
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The "Ham and Eggs" Commitment A legendary coaching analogy resurfaces: To win, do you want to be the chicken (who provides the eggs) or the pig (who provides the ham)? The guys explain why winning championships requires the "total commitment" of the pig.
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North Dakota’s Golden Coach A tribute to David Hoff of Bottineau, who is leading the USA Olympic men’s para hockey team once again. The guys marvel at the athleticism of the para-athletes and Hoff’s calm, "Herb Brooks-style" ability to break down the game.
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Teammates Turned Rivals The spotlight shines on the unique bond between Anthony Mangini (UND) and Eric Polkamp (Denver), former Brainerd High School teammates who are now clashing at the highest level of college hockey.