ESPN Back in the Hockey Game

Ok, we know, ESPN isn't the go-to for all-things hockey related. In fact, for most hockey fans -- especially on the college level -- ESPN doesn't even register in the top 10 for hockey coverage. The channel's World Cup of Hockey commercials didn't exactly do them any favors either...



Still, hockey fans clamor for more coverage night in and night out on television's most prestigious sports channel. Who wants to watch another basketball highlight over a great Auston Matthews goal on SportsCenter anyway? Well fans, this year we got it -- and for more than just the Frozen Four.

Starting this weekend ESPN will broadcast select college hockey games and guess what: each weekend features at least one Big Ten team. Take a look.

Since the Big Ten's inaugural year we have tried to stress the main reason this is a good thing for college hockey: increased exposure. Sure, six games aren't a whole lot to get too excited about, but it's a start. The ever-entertaining and one of hockey's best, John Buccigross will call play-by-play for the regular season games, along with Kevin Brown who will call this weekend's first broadcasted game in Madison.

I don't know about yo guys, but I'm excited to see how it pans out. ESPN does do a terrific job with the Frozen Four and regional coverage, so we have little doubt they will make these regular season match-ups just as exciting.

Now let's play hockey.