The Hockey Guys

It’s the most wonderful time of the year—playoff season. The Hockey Guys are back to break down a wild night of collegiate hockey where almost every ranked team hit a wall. Jeff "The Wise One" Bredahl, Coach Dean Wilson, and Doc Phil Johnson dive into the chaos of the conference quarterfinals, the science of officiating, and a high-stakes meeting at the White House that could reshape the future of student-athletes forever. From the "heavy-bodied" battles of the NCHC to a heartfelt tribute to a Fargo legend, this episode balances the grit of the rink with the big-picture issues facing the sport. Plus, the guys put their wallets where their mouths are with a high-stakes breakfast bet on tonight’s biggest games. Key Moments A Wild Night for the Rankings The crew recaps a stunning night where every ranked team except Boston College suffered a loss. Doc Phil highlights Harvard’s upset over Cornell and Ohio State’s surprising dominance over Wisconsin, proving that in conference play, everyone "lives to beat the guys they know best." Inside the Zebra Room with Mike Schmidt NCHC Director of Officiating Mike Schmidt joins the show to pull back the curtain on how refs are selected for the postseason. He discusses the intense process of whittling 64 officials down to the final 16 and why he believes moving toward a unified "NCAA Official" roster—rather than league-specific crews—could bring much-needed consistency to the game. The Quarterfinal Grind: One-and-Done? Doc Phil poses a tough question to Schmidt about the physical toll of the NCHC’s best-of-three quarterfinal format. They debate whether a "one-and-done" style, like the Big Ten, would better preserve players for the NCAA tournament or if the "time off" would actually hurt a team’s momentum. Nick Saban at the White House The guys analyze legendary football coach Nick Saban’s recent comments to President Trump regarding the state of college athletics. Saban’s warning about "pay for play," the transfer portal, and the loss of focus on education sparks a passionate discussion about reining in a system that is "out of control." The Anchor of UND: Ben Strinden Coach Jackson’s praise for senior captain Ben Strinden takes center stage. The guys discuss how the game has "slowed down" for the elite skater and shoot a nod to his commitment to a four-year program—a rarity in an era where sophomores often bolt for the pros. The Breakfast Bet The studio heats up…

Cowboy up and crack a beverage—the "number one college hockey radio show in the nation" is back with a massive celebration of American hockey dominance. This morning, Jeff "The Wise One," Coach Dean Wilson, and Doc Phil Johnson are joined by legendary guest Dave Morinville to break down a week for the history books. From the professional stage in Milan to the collegiate trenches in Kalamazoo, the guys explore why "grit" is currently outmuscling "skill" on every level of the ice. The episode features an inside look at the United States’ monumental Olympic Gold Medal victory over Canada, alongside an exclusive breakdown of the University of North Dakota clinching the Penrose Cup. With postgame audio from the North Dakota locker room and expert analysis from the "Voice of UND Hockey" Mike Lemoine, this is the ultimate primer for the second season: the playoffs. Key Moments USA Gold: Grit vs. Skill The crew discusses the "monumental achievement" of the USA Men’s Olympic team. Dave and the guys praise GM Billy Guerin’s roster construction, arguing that while Canada had the flash, the U.S. won with "gritty" players who were willing to "tow on the same rope." Special nods go to Captain Auston Matthews’ two-way play and goalie Connor Hellebuyck "standing on his head" in the final. Penrose Cup Champions The guys celebrate the University of North Dakota’s 5-3 road victory over Western Michigan to secure the NCHC league championship. Mike Lemoine joins the show to discuss the "Lawson Lunatics" environment and how UND's depth—with five different goal scorers—proved to be the difference-maker. The Locker Room Reaction Hear directly from the champions with postgame comments from Head Coach Dane Jackson and players Bennett Zmolek, Ben Strinden, and Sam Lorelli. Coach Jackson highlights the "workmanlike attitude" of his 15 new players and the emotional payoff of seeing Zmolek find success after two years of injury adversity. The Rise of Sam Lorelli Moorhead’s own Sam Lorelli earns high praise for his transformation from a depth defenseman to a top-five staple for UND. Doc Phil notes that in his postgame interview, Lorelli never used the words "I" or "my," exemplifying the "team-first" culture that won the league. Goaltender Philosophy: Pedal to the Metal As the playoffs loom, the coaches debate whether to rest starters or "keep the foot on the gas." Coach Wilson sticks to his "take a gal to the prom, take her home" mantra,…

Crack a beverage and "cowboy up" with the nation's premier college hockey crew. This morning, Jeff "The Wise One," Crazy Eddie, and Coach Wilson are breaking down a pivotal weekend in the NCHC and Big Ten. From the "Mach 5" release of Will Zellers to the intense vertical battle between North Dakota and St. Cloud State, the guys dive into why time, space, and "shooting for the white" are the only ways to survive the playoff push. The episode centers on a massive "Gold Medal Sunday" preview, tracing the legendary Olympic roots of the Christian family and the historic growth of women’s hockey. Whether you're a "North-South" traditionalist or into the new "East-West" flow, this episode is a masterclass in preparation, tenacity, and the "men up" mentality required to win championships. Key Moments The Vertical Battle at the Ralph The guys analyze North Dakota’s physical shootout loss to St. Cloud State. Jeff breaks down why UND must stop moving the puck horizontally and start driving vertically, while praising the "rocket" of a shot from Will Zellers and the rookie leadership of Cole Reshny. "Shoot for the White" In a passionate segment on offensive efficiency, Eddie and Coach Wilson urge young players to stop practicing hitting pipes and start picking spots. They argue that against elite 6'5" goaltenders, the only way to capitalize is to find the white part of the net. The Three-Generation Quest The spotlight turns to Warroad and the Nelson family. The guys discuss the potential for Brock Nelson to win gold, completing a historic three-generation trifecta alongside his father and uncles who won in 1960 and 1980. Women’s Hockey: The 65% Surge Coach Wilson highlights the staggering 65% growth in women’s hockey over the last five years. The crew celebrates the "gritty" play of the U.S. women and the specific success of North Dakota products like the Lamoureux sisters and Britta Curl from Bismarck. The "Player Agent" Controversy Jeff raises eyebrows over Coach Bob Motzko’s comments regarding early professional departures at Minnesota. The guys debate the shift in college culture, where coaches must now navigate "family reps" and agents instead of just talking to the players directly. NCHC Power Play With Denver just two points back from North Dakota for the Penrose Cup, the guys look ahead to next week’s critical clash in Kalamazoo. They argue the NCHC remains the deepest league in the country, potentially sending…

Get ready to cowboy up for another high-stakes episode of "The Hockey Guys," the nation's definitive voice on college hockey. This week, the crew—The Wise One, Crazy Eddie, and Coach Wilson—breaks down a grueling night of "old-time hockey" where physical battles and men's strength took center stage. With the NCAA tournament picture tightening and the Olympic torch burning bright, the guys explore the thin line between making the cut and watching the playoffs from the couch. The episode features two heavy-hitting guest interviews: Concordia College's Kirk Gollum joins to discuss the high-pressure race for the MIAC playoffs, and Brian Idalski, head coach of the Professional Women’s Hockey League's Vancouver Golden Eyes, provides a masterclass on the evolution of women's hockey and the intensity of the "best on best" international rivalry. Key Moments The Battle of Men: UND vs. Miami The guys analyze North Dakota’s razor-thin 1-0 victory over a transformed Miami squad. Jeff and Eddie marvel at Miami’s physical evolution into a "heavy" team that forced North Dakota into a brutal, 60-minute defensive grind. Concordia’s Playoff Pressure Cooker Coach Kirk Gollum pulls back the curtain on the MIAC, explaining the "weird year" where even a strong winning record might not be enough to crack the five-team playoff field. He discusses the "next man up" mentality as the Cobbers battle critical injuries to key players like Carson Triggs. Vancouver’s Golden Eyes & The 12,000 Fan Mark Brian Idalski discusses the massive success of the PWHL in Vancouver, highlighting the incredible 12,000-person average attendance and the "full circle" moment of coaching former UND standouts like Ashton Bell and Kristen Campbell at the professional level. The US-Canada "Hatred" Shift A fascinating deep dive into the changing camaraderie of women’s international hockey. Idalski and the crew discuss how the PWHL has turned once-bitter rivals into teammates, potentially softening the "instinctual hatred" that used to define the cross-border rivalry. Bubble Watch: The Eastern "B" Schools Crazy Eddie breaks down the peril facing Eastern powerhouses like Boston College and Boston University. With Merrimack pulling off big upsets, the guys discuss how "bubble teams" are in danger of missing the tournament unless they win their conference outright. Goalie Greatness: The Mike Richter Race The spotlight shines on UND’s Juan Spunar, a top-10 finalist for the Mike Richter Award. The guys debate the old coaching adage: "You should never lose a game because of a goalie, but you…

This morning, the "number one college hockey radio show in the nation" delivers an emotional powerhouse of an episode that bridges the gap between legendary history and the future of the sport. The guys—Crazy Eddie, Coach Wills, Doc Phil, and "The Wise One"—celebrate a wild night of nine overtime games across college hockey, but the real magic happens when they welcome a true American icon to the studio. The episode features two world-class guests: Western Michigan University Head Coach Pat Ferschweiler, who discusses his coaching philosophy of preparation and joy, and David Christian, a gold medal winner from the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" Olympic team. From the vibrations of the crowd in Lake Placid to the upcoming Olympic journey of Brock Nelson in Milan, this episode is a masterclass in the pride of the USA sweater and the lifelong bond of teammates. Key Moments The Return of a Miracle In a surprise appearance that leaves "Crazy Eddie" in tears, David Christian joins the show to reflect on the 1980 Olympic victory. David discusses the "chills" he still feels hearing Al Michaels' legendary call and describes the unique genius of Herb Brooks in managing a locker room of distinct individuals. Pat Ferschweiler’s Plan for Success Western Michigan’s head coach, Pat Ferschweiler, shares the lessons he learned from mentors like Andy Murray and Jeff Blashill. His "fountain of youth" philosophy is simple: practice should be fun, and every pre-game meeting should start with a clear plan on exactly how the team is going to win. The Position Switch that Changed History David Christian recounts the moment Herb Brooks moved him from forward to defense just six weeks before the 1980 Olympics. Without any prior discussion, David saw his name listed as a defenseman on a lineup sheet and simply "went out and played" to help the team. The "Legs Feed the Wolf" Mentality David Christian breaks down the grueling conditioning drills under Brooks, explaining how the coach made "punishment" skating fun by convincing the players they could reach a level of greatness they never thought possible. A Nine-Overtime Night The crew analyzes a historic night of parity in college hockey, including Michigan’s thrilling overtime win over Michigan State and Duluth’s hard-fought victory over UND. They debate whether a "bye week" helps or hurts a team's intensity. Olympic Pedigree: From Cortina to Milan The guys trace the Christian family’s Olympic lineage, from Gordon…

This morning, the Hockey Guys studio is a "full house" as the legends gather to talk puck, pedigree, and the home stretch of the college hockey season. With "Crazy Eddie" back from probation and a special appearance by "Spudnik" Steve Christian, the crew dives into a masterclass of hockey history centered on the legendary Warroad-Hibbing connection. From the 1956 silver in Cortina to the strategic masterstrokes of the 1980 "Miracle on Ice," this episode is a treasure trove for anyone who bleeds green and white. The episode features a powerhouse interview with USA Hockey Hall of Famer and CCHA Commissioner Don Lucia. The conversation bridges the gap between the "old school" days of Grand Rapids titles and the modern "wild west" of NIL deals and the transfer portal. Whether they're debating the merits of the Kardashian sisters versus the Christian brothers or breaking down the influx of Canadian Major Junior players into the NCAA, the Hockey Guys deliver the definitive word on the state of the game. Key Moments The Christian Family Legacy Steve Christian and Eddie Christian swap incredible stories about their fathers—Gordon "Guinea" and Bill Christian—who paved the way for American hockey. A highlight includes the backstory of how Gordon convinced Herb Brooks to move David Christian to defense for the 1980 Olympic team, a move that arguably secured the gold. Commissioner Lucia on the "New Path" CCHA Commissioner Don Lucia joins the show to discuss the recent NCAA rule change allowing Canadian Major Junior (CHL) players to join college ranks. Lucia predicts this will create unprecedented depth in college hockey, making it a primary development route for 19- and 20-year-olds eyeing the NHL. NIL and the Transfer Portal The guys tackle the "dead horse" of NIL money. Lucia offers a candid take on the system, expressing a desire to see transfers limited to one move per player to prevent teams from being picked apart, using Bemidji’s loss of Eric Polkamp to Denver as a prime example. Intermission with "Ham’s Beer" Between scores, the crew investigates the "Christian genetics" behind the family’s signature missing front teeth, leading to a hilarious debate about whether the show should have booked the Kardashians instead of the Warroad legends. Big Ten & NCHC Shakeups A breakdown of the previous night’s scores: Minnesota’s 4-1 upset over number eight Wisconsin, Denver’s narrow victory over Duluth, and Michigan’s dominance over Ohio State. The guys discuss…

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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Tribute…

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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. North Dakota’s Golden Coach A tribute to David Hoff of Bottineau, who is leading the USA…

In this hard-hitting and heartfelt episode of The Hockey Guys, Jace Denman, "Crazy Eddie" Christian, and Coach Dean Wilson dive into the chaotic reality of the second half of the college hockey season. The crew is joined by medical expert Dr. Phil Johnson and coaching legends Ted Donato (Harvard) and Tony Granato (Wisconsin) to peel back the curtain on the "Wild West" of the transfer portal and NIL money. From the emotional scenes at Fargo’s "Stick It to Cancer" fundraiser to a deep-dive analysis of why Gavin McKenna might not be ready for the pros, this episode balances the grit of the game with the life lessons learned off the ice. Key Moments: Rallying for a Cause: Coach Dean Wilson shares a moving tribute to the "Stick It to Cancer" event in Fargo, which has raised over $800,000 to date. He highlights the inspiring resilience of Davies player Jackson, a leukemia survivor who reminded everyone that "there’s no guarantees in life". The NIL "Pay-for-Play" Reality: Harvard Head Coach Ted Donato doesn't mince words, calling the current NIL landscape "pay-for-play". He explains his "old school" commitment to a four-year development model, noting that in 22 years at Harvard, he has never taken a transfer student. The Gavin McKenna Debate: Dr. Phil and Tony Granato break down the performance of top prospect Gavin McKenna. Granato compares him to a young Connor McDavid but argues that another year of college weight training is essential, noting that "nobody ever leaves college too early". Friday Night Upsets: The guys recap a surprising night where higher seeds mostly dominated, with the glaring exception of Colorado College’s showing against North Dakota. They also discuss Augustana's continued rise as they sit on the bubble at the No. 13 spot. Olympic Roster Insights: As the Winter Olympics approach, Dr. Phil offers insider perspective on Team USA’s strategy to build a "heavy," physical team to counter Canada’s dominance. The "Snickers Bar" Bribery: The show takes a hilarious turn when a local caller confirms a decades-old story about "Crazy Eddie" greasing referees with Snickers bars to keep the game moving in his favor—a "caveman days" version of NIL.

In this high-energy episode of The Hockey Guys, Jace Denman (the "wise one"), "Crazy Eddie" Christian, and Coach Dean Wilson dive into the aftermath of the 2026 World Junior Championship quarterfinals. With guest Doc Phil Johnson—medical director for the tournament—the crew discusses Team USA’s disappointing exit, Canada’s rising dominance, and how Minneapolis has set a world-class standard for future host cities. The conversation also shifts to the domestic front, recapping a wild night of college hockey where in-state rivals clashed and the transfer portal continue to spark heated debate among the hosts. Key Moments World Juniors Reflection: Doc Phil Johnson shares behind-the-scenes insights into the 2026 tournament, noting that the Minneapolis facilities and medical coordination have "set the new bar" for the IIHF. The hosts break down Team USA's 4-3 overtime loss to Finland, citing a lack of puck control and defensive zone lapses as the primary culprits. Canada’s Shortened Bench: The crew lauds Team Canada head coach Dale Hunter for his aggressive coaching style, noting how he successfully "potty trained" his elite roster by shortening the bench to two lines early on to enforce a fast, physical north-south game. The In-State Battle: College hockey highlights include the Bemidji State Beavers securing an exhibition shootout win over the Minnesota Gophers. Other notable scores include North Dakota’s victory over Mercyhurst and Augustana’s narrow win against Colorado College. Portal & Politics: Coach Wilson and Doc Phil engage in a candid discussion about the "Portal Problem" in college athletics. They debate how the current system may be eroding team culture and whether elite players are prioritizing short-term financial gains over long-term program development. Player Spotlight: Shout-outs go to Moorhead native Aaron Reierson, who earned his first college point with Alaska Anchorage, and Fargo’s Ben Strinden, who netted the game-winning goal for North Dakota. Safety on the Ice: Doc Phil discusses the "Rescue on Ice" training protocols and the ongoing challenges of protecting players in vulnerable spots, such as the back of the neck and dental safety through proper mouthguard use.