The Gophers climbed back into the USCHO top 20 on Monday, ending an extended absence from the college hockey polls. They're ranked No. 17 after sweeping then-No. 12 Michigan and its nation-best offense last weekend at Mariucci Arena.
Three weeks ago, the Gophers fell out of the USCHO poll for the first time since April 2011. Since then, they're on a six-game unbeaten streak and have climbed from the bottom of the Big Ten standings into a first-place tie with Michigan.
The Wolverines dropped to No. 15 after losing for just the fourth and fifth time in their last 19 games. Penn State dropped from the rankings after being swept by Michigan State, leaving just two Big Ten members in the polls. The Gophers travel to Penn State for two games this weekend.
Minnesota State fell from the top spot following a tie and loss to Alaska, bumping North Dakota back to No. 1. The Mavericks, Boston University, Michigan Tech and Nebraska Omaha round out the top five. Only two of the top 10 teams avoided a loss last weekend.
The Gophers remain at No. 13 in the PairWise rankings, the poll based off the formula that will determine the 16-team NCAA tournament field. Minnesota State is No. 1 and Minnesota Duluth No. 4.
Complete USCHO men's poll, the top 20 results, the PairWise rankings, and Big Ten results and standings.
Friday replay: Gophers skate with purpose, show off the skill that fans have been waiting for in 6-2 upset of No. 12 Michigan, read Friday night's game story and postgame blog. Watch postgame video of Gophers senior forward Kyle Rau, junior defenseman Mike Reilly and coach Don Lucia.
Saturday replay: Gophers sweep No. 12 Michigan fueled by Adam Wilcox's revival, move into first-place tie in Big Ten standings, read Saturday night's game story and postgame blog. Watch postgame video of Gophers junior goaltender Adam Wilcox, senior forward Seth Ambroz and coach Don Lucia.
