Crack a beverage and warm up with the "number one college hockey radio show in the nation." On this frigid morning, the guys—Coach Dean Wilson, Dr. Phil Johnson, and the "wise one" in the cowboy shirt—break down a massive night of Big Ten and NCHC action. The spotlight is firmly on Michigan State’s statement win over the Minnesota Gophers and a potential revolution in college hockey scheduling that could change the game forever.
The episode features two heavy-hitting guests: NCHC Director of Officiating Mike Schmidt and Michigan State Head Coach Adam Nightingale. From the "Mary Kay" makeup calls on the ice to the heart-wrenching loss of a Spartan legend, this episode balances the grit of the rink with the deep-rooted culture of the hockey community.
Key Moments
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The Spartan Surge The guys recap Michigan State’s 3-1 victory over the Gophers. Coach Nightingale joins the show to discuss the "fifth-generation Spartan" legacy and how his team managed to overcome Minnesota’s relentless defensive effort, which included a staggering 26 blocked shots.
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A Call for Interlocking Conferences A major theme of the show is the push for an "interlocking schedule" between the Big Ten and the NCHC. Dr. Phil and Coach Nightingale discuss a "Big Ten/NCHC Challenge" modeled after college basketball, which would pit powerhouses like UND and Michigan State against each other in a point-system trophy series.
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The Director’s Perspective NCHC’s Mike Schmidt calls in from Scottsdale to talk about the "tightest" talent pool in years. He provides a rare look into "game management" and the move toward a standalone Division I men’s rulebook that mimics the NHL.
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The Mouth Guard Audit Dr. Phil sparks a heated debate over player safety, noting that dental injuries are spiking because kids think they are "adults" once they put on a half-visor. The guys discuss how insurance companies are now denying claims if a mouth guard wasn't worn properly.
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Culture Over Buzzwords Coach Nightingale pulls back the curtain on Michigan State’s locker room, explaining that culture isn't just "words on a wall" but how players act when the coaches aren't looking. He emphasizes recruiting "families" and kids who want to be part of something bigger than their own personal highlight reel.
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Local Boys Making Noise The crew highlights the success of local products Bower Berry (son of UND coach Brad Berry) and Mason Pullman, who both contributed major points in St. Thomas’ recent victory.
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Tribute to Dan Ferguson In a moving segment, the guys express their sympathies to the Michigan State program following the sudden passing of former player and staff member Dan Ferguson, a pillar of the Spartan hockey family.