AO:
I do think Bing is on a roll and playing before a packed house at home will certainly make a difference. That said, in the second half of the season, we've seen two very different Bearcat teams -- the one that rolled off five straight victories and a convincing upset of BU earlier today, and the one that lost to Stony Brook and Hartford, two struggling programs. At the end of the day, I like Bing's chances, but I also think if the refs call a tight game and Bing's shooters don't come out hot, Bing could struggle.
To me, the key for Albany is to come out with lots of energy, match Bing's defensive intensity, and make shots. In the first match-up between the two, Albany showed that they can score points in a hurry and their come from behind victory was as real confidence-booster for their younger players. In the second match-up, however, Bing's fast start really stunned the Danes, and they never really found a rhythm. To me, the Danes need to avoid falling behind early and to stay confident. If they can turn the game into a shooting match, I think they may have the advantage.
The upside for the Danes, of course, is that they've already played the "good" Binghamton team once, in Binghamton, before a very raucous crowd, so they now know what to expect in this Saturday's game. Hopefully (for you, not for me), they'll use that experience to their advantage.
Either way, I expect it'll be a great game, a great atmosphere, and another great chapter in a pretty decent and pretty long-standing rivalry. I hope to see a bunch of you Dane fans -- though not too many -- at the game.
Oh, and in case I didn't make it clear, I am jealous that you guys have such a great message board. I hope you don't mind the occasional post from an envious Bearcat fan.