The rivalry between Boston University (BU) and the University of Connecticut (UConn) is one of the most intense and storied in college athletics. With a history spanning over six decades, this rivalry has produced some of the most memorable moments in sports. In this ultimate rivalry guide, we will delve into the history, stats, and highlights of the BU vs UConn rivalry, exploring what makes it so unique and captivating.
History of the Rivalry
The BU vs UConn rivalry began in the 1950s, with the two teams first meeting on the ice in 1955. Since then, the teams have faced off over 100 times, with BU holding a slight edge in the all-time series. However, it’s not just the on-ice battles that make this rivalry special – it’s the off-ice drama, the coaching matchups, and the intense fan bases that have contributed to the rivalry’s enduring legacy.
Early Years
In the early years of the rivalry, BU and UConn were both members of the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC). The teams would often meet in the regular season, with the winner earning crucial points in the standings. As the years went by, the rivalry grew in intensity, with both teams experiencing periods of dominance. The 1970s and 1980s were particularly notable, with BU winning several ECAC championships and UConn establishing itself as a consistent playoff contender.
Modern Era
In recent years, the BU vs UConn rivalry has reached new heights. The teams have met in several high-stakes playoff games, including a 2015 Hockey East semifinal matchup that saw BU come from behind to win 4-3 in overtime. The rivalry has also been fueled by the emergence of talented players on both teams, including BU’s Jack Eichel and UConn’s Tage Thompson. With the rise of social media, the rivalry has become more accessible and engaging for fans, with both teams’ followers actively participating in the trash talk and hype surrounding each matchup.
| Category | BU | UConn |
|---|---|---|
| All-Time Series | 55-43-12 | 43-55-12 |
| Postseason Meetings | 10-5-2 | 5-10-2 |
| Championships | 5 ECAC, 1 Hockey East | 1 MAAC, 1 Atlantic Hockey |
Key Players and Coaches
Over the years, several key players and coaches have played a significant role in shaping the BU vs UConn rivalry. From BU’s legendary coach Jack Parker to UConn’s current bench boss Mike Cavanaugh, the coaches have often been the focal point of the rivalry. On the ice, players like BU’s Chris Drury and UConn’s Todd Krygier have etched their names into the rivalry’s lore with their impressive performances.
Coaching Matchups
The coaching matchups have been a significant aspect of the BU vs UConn rivalry. Jack Parker, who coached BU from 1973 to 2013, is the all-time leader in wins against UConn with 34 victories. UConn’s Bruce Marshall, who coached the Huskies from 1988 to 2013, had a notable 20-15-5 record against BU. The current coaches, Albie O’Connell (BU) and Mike Cavanaugh (UConn), have continued the tradition of intense, hard-fought games between the two teams.
Notable Players
Several players have made significant contributions to the BU vs UConn rivalry. BU’s Jack Eichel, who played for the Terriers from 2014 to 2015, is one of the most dominant players in the rivalry’s history, with 11 goals and 15 assists in just 8 games against UConn. UConn’s Tage Thompson, who played for the Huskies from 2015 to 2017, had 7 goals and 10 assists in 10 games against BU. These players, along with many others, have helped to fuel the rivalry and create unforgettable moments.
- BU's Chris Drury: 10 goals, 15 assists in 15 games against UConn
- UConn's Todd Krygier: 12 goals, 10 assists in 18 games against BU
- BU's Jack Eichel: 11 goals, 15 assists in 8 games against UConn
- UConn's Tage Thompson: 7 goals, 10 assists in 10 games against BU
What is the most memorable game in the BU vs UConn rivalry?
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The 2015 Hockey East semifinal matchup between BU and UConn is widely regarded as one of the most memorable games in the rivalry. BU came from behind to win 4-3 in overtime, with Jack Eichel scoring the game-winner.
Who has the most wins in the BU vs UConn rivalry?
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BU’s Jack Parker has the most wins in the BU vs UConn rivalry, with 34 victories against the Huskies.
What is the current state of the BU vs UConn rivalry?
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The BU vs UConn rivalry remains intense and competitive, with both teams consistently competing for championships in the Hockey East conference. The rivalry continues to be fueled by the talented players, coaching matchups, and passionate fan bases on both sides.
