My theory on BU has always been this: Parker has a development schedule for his teams. Oct-Jan, it's good enough to simply play satisfactorily. He can figure out lines, teach skills and plays, and generally groom the squad toward the first goal -- the Beanpot. Those are the first two games that *really* matter to Parker. After the Beanpot, it's not too hard to carry that work ethic through the rest of the regular season and into the Hockey East playoffs. Frankly, I'm surprised every time that BU starts the season hot, because I don't think that's what Parker is trying to do. Chris (hoping that Jack hasn't gotten his team playing well just yet...Go Blue!!) HOCKEY-L is for discussion of college ice hockey; send information to [log in to unmask], The College Hockey Information List.