While some use the term Hockey Christmas in reference to the Frozen Four, last night's results made it more like Hockey Whatever Holiday Involves Repeated Knees to the Groin. I thankfully did not see much of the first game (got a score early in the third period and turned it off), and watched enough of the second to be both irritated at Notre Dame at blowing a 3-0 lead and Michigan for not getting to the final, as I'd assumed they'd be a more daunting opponent for that other team.

In any case, the final tally:

Coen, M 13
Nichols 13
Barker 12
De Veau 12
Hight 12
Burger 11
Rosenberg 11
Sorenson 11
Bruce 9
Boggie 7
Coen, S 6

I win on the first tiebreak, as I correctly guessed 8 games, and Kelly only picked 7.

So all of this sets up what seems to be the national title game of haterade for most folks. I, of course, will be rooting for Notre Dame, but I can understand that some of you may not be able to do this. I just ask that you not root for that other team, if possible.

Not that you care, but I've already lost a game in this madness that is March. I took Temple over Michigan State, as I found myself reaching for upsets. In that vein, you can add Baylor sometime within the next hour, unless there's a serious Purdue collapse.

(Don't take this to be hatin' on the Big 10. Though I may be hatin' on Sparty a bit after last season's NCAA ice hockey tournament spanking.)