1. Don't Even Ask.
2. Northeastern. Here is where it gets hard. Everybody knows that BC Hockey's biggest rival is BU but after that, everyone has their own thoughts about who are BC's other big rivals. I am going to go with Northeastern at #2 because they are a crosstown, Beanpot, and Hockey East rival. While it can be said that the Huskies are not very competitive with BC every year, they certainly are in the top five because they are a Beanpot and in league rival.
3. Harvard. If you ask former BC players that played in the 50's, and 60's, I am sure most of them would tell you that their most hated school is Harvard, not BU. If BC and Harvard were still in the same league like they used to be, I am pretty sure the Crimson would be #2 on this list but because we don't see them as much anymore, they are not as high as NU or BU.
4. Notre Dame. If you went around campus and asked say 100 students about who BC's biggest rival overall is, I would bet nearly all of them would say Notre Dame. Hockey wise, the Irish are not BC's biggest rival, that is not yet anyways. When Notre Dame comes over to Hockey East in two years, I am sure that the rivalry between these two Catholic rivals will sore. For now however, the Irish remain at #4 because they only play BC once a year (at most).
5. UNH. Over the years, it seems that the Eagles and the Wildcats have played in some huge games against each other whether it be in the regular or post season. Every BC UNH game is close (Except for the one earlier this year) and hard fought. I think there is a huge amount of respect between the coaching staffs of both teams and it is certainly always fun to watch these teams play.
Others not listed- UMass, Maine, North Dakota, and Michigan.
Until next time,
GO EAGLES
Ranking Boston College Hockey's Top 5 Rivals
In the world of college hockey, rivalries are the lifeblood of the sport. The passion, intensity, and history associated with these matchups add an extra layer of excitement to every game. Boston College, a powerhouse in college hockey, has its fair share of rivals that have produced some of the most memorable moments in the sport's history. In this article, we'll rank Boston College Hockey's top five rivals based on the intensity of their matchups, the historical significance, and the sheer drama they bring to the ice. Additionally, we'll address frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to these intense rivalries.
Section 1: The Importance of Rivalries in College Hockey
Rivalries in college hockey are more than just games; they're a cultural phenomenon:
Passionate Fan Base: Rivalry games often draw the largest crowds, with fans turning out in droves to support their teams.
Historical Significance: Many of these rivalries have decades of history, with storylines and legacies that endure through generations.
On-Ice Drama: Rivalry games are known for their high-stakes drama, with emotions running high on and off the ice.
Section 2: Ranking Boston College Hockey's Top 5 Rivals
Now, let's dive into the top five rivals of Boston College Hockey, ranked based on their historical significance and the intensity of their matchups:
Boston University Terriers:
Historical Significance: The "Battle of Comm. Ave" between BC and BU is one of the most storied rivalries in college hockey.
Intense Matchups: The games between these cross-town rivals are marked by fierce competition and a deep-seated desire to defeat the other.
University of New Hampshire Wildcats:
Historical Significance: BC's rivalry with UNH has produced many memorable moments, including playoff battles.
Intensity: The proximity of the schools and their consistent competitiveness make this rivalry one of the most heated in college hockey.
University of Maine Black Bears:
Historical Significance: BC's matchups with Maine have a rich history, featuring championship battles and unforgettable games.
Passion: The fans' passion in this rivalry adds to the intensity, with both sides eager for bragging rights.
Harvard University Crimson:
Historical Significance: The "Battle of the Bright-Landry Hockey Center" is an annual highlight for both BC and Harvard.
Ivy-League Meets Hockey East: The contrast between Ivy League Harvard and Hockey East BC adds a unique dynamic to this rivalry.
Northeastern University Huskies:
Historical Significance: While BC has historically dominated this rivalry, the intensity of the games remains high.
Local Flavor: The proximity of the schools and the Boston hockey scene make this rivalry a must-watch.
Section 3: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Boston College Hockey Rivalries
Let's address some common questions about Boston College Hockey's top rivals:
Do these rivalries extend beyond the ice?
Yes, many of these rivalries have a deep cultural and historical significance, extending to fan engagement, alumni pride, and even academic rivalries.
What are some of the most memorable moments in these rivalries?
Memorable moments include championship victories, overtime thrillers, and iconic goals that are etched in college hockey lore.
How do players prepare for rivalry games?
Rivalry games require a unique mental and emotional preparation. Players often draw inspiration from the history and intensity of the matchups.
Section 4: Conclusion
Rivalries are the beating heart of college hockey, and Boston College has been at the center of some of the sport's most intense and storied battles. From the "Battle of Comm. Ave" with BU to the passionate clashes with UNH, Maine, Harvard, and Northeastern, BC Hockey's top rivals have added immeasurable excitement and drama to the sport. These matchups are more than just games; they are part of the rich tapestry of college hockey history, and they continue to be celebrated by fans, players, and alumni alike. As each new season brings fresh rivalries and unforgettable moments, one thing remains constant: the fervor and passion of college hockey rivalries will endure for generations to come.
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