The 2025 NCAA Men's Lacrosse Tournament quarterfinals delivered thrilling matchups, standout performances, and set the stage for an exciting Championship Weekend.
Maryland 9, Georgetown 6
In a defensive battle, Maryland secured a 9-6 victory over Georgetown. Braden Erksa led the Terrapins with a hat trick, while Daniel Kelly added two goals. Goalie Logan McNaney made 11 saves, anchoring a defense that limited Georgetown to just one goal in the second half.
Penn State 14, Notre Dame 12
Penn State upset defending champion Notre Dame in a high-scoring affair. Matt Traynor was the star for the Nittany Lions, scoring six goals. Ethan Long and Kyle Lehman each contributed hat tricks. Despite a strong first half by Notre Dame. Penn State went on an 8-0 and held the Irish scoreless in the 4th quarter after being down 6 at one point in the second half.
Syracuse 19, Princeton 18
In the most thrilling game of the quarterfinals, Syracuse edged out Princeton 19-18. Joey Spallina led the Orange with four goals, and goalie Jimmy McCool made 12 saves. Princeton's Chad Palumbo had an impressive six-goal performance in the losing effort. This game was very thrilling as both teams scored over 10 goals in the first half. This was truly an offensive game that was played at an extremely high pace.
Cornell 13, Richmond 12
Cornell defeated Richmond in a game where Rishcmond really gave them a run for their money that many fans didn't expect. Ryan Goldstein led the Big Red with four goals, while CJ Kirst added two. Despite a strong performance from Richmond's goalie Zach Vigue, who made 14 saves, Cornell advanced to the semifinals.
Standout Players
Matt Traynor (Penn State): Scored six goals in the quarterfinal win over Notre Dame.
Braden Erksa (Maryland): Recorded a hat trick to lead Maryland past Georgetown.
Joey Spallina (Syracuse): Contributed four goals in the high-scoring victory over Princeton.
Ryan Goldstein (Cornell): Led the Big Red with four goals in the narrow win against Richmond.
Semifinals & Finals Predictions
Maryland vs. Penn State
Maryland's strong defense and experience give them an edge, but Penn State's explosive offense, led by Matt Traynor, poses a significant threat.Wikipedia
Prediction: Maryland wins a close game, 11-10.
Syracuse vs. Cornell
Syracuse's high-powered offense faces a tough test against Cornell's balanced attack and strong defense.
Prediction: Cornell advances with a 13-11 victory.
Championship Game: Maryland vs. Cornell
A rematch of the 2022 final, this game promises to be a defensive showdown. Maryland's experience and depth may give them the slight advantage.
Prediction: Maryland edges out Cornell, 10-9, to claim the national championship.
