Lacrosse Preview: Rutgers

Who: Rutgers Scarlet Knights
When: Saturday, February 21, 12:00
Where: Rutgers University, Piscataway, N.J.
How to Watch: Big 10 Network Plus ($$)

After a hot 2-0 start with wins over two top 20 teams, the Cavaliers head on the road to take on Big 10 foe Rutgers. The game was moved to noon to avoid the inclement weather that has been bombarding the east coast.

The Hoos and Knights faced off last season in Charlottesville, a game Virginia won 19-12 behind a career high five goals from Ryan Tucker. Rutgers returns Rich Rambo (2 goals), Christian Trasolini, and Brian Goss who scored in last year's game, as well as their goalkeeper Kris Alleyne (21 saves).

This season, Rutgers is 1-1, defeating St. Johns 10-8 and falling to Richmond 15-7, both on the road. Trasolini leads the Scarlet Knights in scoring with four goals and assist, while Scott Bieda has three goals and two assists of his own. Faceoff man Joe Nardella is a blistering 63% at the faceoff X.

Virginia's attack came alive last week in the win over Drexel behind three goals from Owen Van Arsdale and two goals and two assists for each James Pannell and Ryan Lukacovic. The biggest test for the Hoos in this game will be the combination of Jeff Kratky (36%) and Jason Murphy (35%) against Nardella at the X. Look for Virginia to press the wings on the faceoffs and utilize tough rides to force turnovers and gain possession if they can't win the face straight up.