The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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3.86 goals per game, but ranked 38th in scoring defense (2.89 goals per contest), and ultimately could not outscore its mistakes. The Wolverines gave it their best try, however, scor- ing seven, 10, seven and six goals in consecutive games in January — all wins — while also allowing 15 total markers. Down the stretch, as the contests took on more of a playoff feel, Michigan went 1-5 in Febru- ary and March games in which the Maize and Blue al- lowed three goals or more. Michigan was young on defense, with four regulars in their sopho- more or freshman seasons, and men- tal lapses plagued the Wolverines. Inconsistent goalie play made it worse, but this team embraced the idea of its offensive firepower, often shucking defensive responsibilities or taking risks to jumpstart a rush. Next year, U-M should make it a singular goal to be known as a great defensive team, for defense is far more sustain- able than offense. M i c h i g a n d e s p e r a t e l y wants to return to the NCAA Tournament, especially if next year is Berenson's last, and there is no rea- son the Maize and Blue should not be a tourna- ment team in 2015-16. Then again, they probably should have been this sea- son, too. "There's no one saying this team isn't good enough on paper," Ruden said. "The hard part now is there is no one on next year 's team that has been to the NCAA Tournament, and it's almost like the program is starting over from scratch. "Our coaches have to lead the way, but we need every player pulling in the same direction, with the same commitment, because the longer you go without success, the harder it is to reclaim what you've lost." ❑ Defenseman Zach Werenski was an All-Big Ten first-team selection as a rookie after scoring nine goals and pro- ducing 25 total points. PHOTO BY LON HORWEDEL