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  • Loyola's Zach Herreweyers (27) and Brian Sherlock (6) celebrate Loyola's...

    Amy Davis, Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Zach Herreweyers (27) and Brian Sherlock (6) celebrate Loyola's 10th goal of the game in the third quarter.

  • Maryland attacker Jay Carlson takes on Johns Hopkins midfielder Phil...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland attacker Jay Carlson takes on Johns Hopkins midfielder Phil Castronova.

  • Towson's Jack Adams shoots and scores Towson's third goal against...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Jack Adams shoots and scores Towson's third goal against Ohio State in the first quarter.

  • Maryland attacker Matt Rambo fires a shot past Johns Hopkins...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland attacker Matt Rambo fires a shot past Johns Hopkins goalie Eric Schneider and long-stick defensive midfielder Michael Pellegrino.

  • Maryland's Bobby Gribbin, left, celebrates as Loyola Maryland's Jared Mintzlaff,...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Bobby Gribbin, left, celebrates as Loyola Maryland's Jared Mintzlaff, from right, and Ryan Fournier react in dejection after Gribbin's goal, Maryland's 10th, in the third quarter on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Michigan goalie Gerald Logan and Maryland attackman Jay Carlson fight...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Michigan goalie Gerald Logan and Maryland attackman Jay Carlson fight for possession.

  • Johns Hopkins goalkeeper Eric Schneider, left, prepares for a shot...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins goalkeeper Eric Schneider, left, prepares for a shot by Towson attackman Ryan Drenner, center, as the Blue Jays' Joe Carlini defends.

  • Colgate players swarm around Loyola Maryland's Johnny Giuffreda as he...

    Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun

    Colgate players swarm around Loyola Maryland's Johnny Giuffreda as he fights to keep possession of the ball in the first half.

  • Virginia midfielder Jeff Kratky stick-checks Johns Hopkins midfielder Drew Kennedy.

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Virginia midfielder Jeff Kratky stick-checks Johns Hopkins midfielder Drew Kennedy.

  • Maryland goalie Kyle Bernlohr clears the ball after a save...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland goalie Kyle Bernlohr clears the ball after a save in the fourth quarter against Loyola Maryland on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • A shot by Virginia midfielder Zed Williams finds the back...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    A shot by Virginia midfielder Zed Williams finds the back of the net behind Loyola goalie Pat McEnerney for what would be the game-winning goal.

  • Loyola Maryland's Zach Herreweyers, right, celebrates with teammate Romar Dennis...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Zach Herreweyers, right, celebrates with teammate Romar Dennis after scoring a goal against Penn State in the second quarter.

  • Loyola defenders Jack Carrigan (left) and Pat Frazier successfully stop...

    Amy Davis, Baltimore Sun

    Loyola defenders Jack Carrigan (left) and Pat Frazier successfully stop Towson's Ryan Drenner from getting off a shot as goalie Pat McEnerney looks on.

  • Maryland attackman Dave Goodwin tries to score around Michigan defender...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland attackman Dave Goodwin tries to score around Michigan defender Mack Gembis.

  • Maryland's Bryan Cole pumps his fist after scoring the eventual...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Bryan Cole pumps his fist after scoring the eventual game-winning goal against Loyola Maryland in the fourth quarter on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Maryland midfielder Henry West (38) in action against North Carolina...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Henry West (38) in action against North Carolina midfielder Brett Bedard (3) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Maryland players celebrate after a score.

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland players celebrate after a score.

  • North Carolina midfielder Walker Chafee (18) and Maryland long stick...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    North Carolina midfielder Walker Chafee (18) and Maryland long stick middle Mike Bender (11) fight for possession during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Towson goalie Tyler White, center, watches the ball hit the...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson goalie Tyler White, center, watches the ball hit the net for the eventual game-winning score by Ohio State's Ryan Hunter in the fourth quarter.

  • Denver's head coach Bill Tierney watches as his team work...

    RICH SCHULTZ / Associated Press

    Denver's head coach Bill Tierney watches as his team work out prior to the start of the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse championship game.

  • Johns Hopkins coach Dave Pietramala during the second half.

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins coach Dave Pietramala during the second half.

  • Johns Hopkins celebrates a 14-9 victory over Penn State.

    Greg Fiume / Maryland Athletics

    Johns Hopkins celebrates a 14-9 victory over Penn State.

  • North Carolina congratulates Maryland after the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    North Carolina congratulates Maryland after the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Maryland midfielder Charlie Raffa (7) wins a faceoff against North...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Charlie Raffa (7) wins a faceoff against North Carolina midfielder Michael Tagliaferri (21) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Johns Hopkins goalkeeper Eric Schneider, pictured, can't stop a shot...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins goalkeeper Eric Schneider, pictured, can't stop a shot by Towson's Andrew Hodgson.

  • Maryland attackman Matt Rambo tries to score around Michigan midfielder...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland attackman Matt Rambo tries to score around Michigan midfielder Chase Young.

  • Loyola's Romar Dennis celebrates his goal against Army at Ridley...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Romar Dennis celebrates his goal against Army at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Maryland attackman Jay Carlson fires a shot past Michigan defender...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland attackman Jay Carlson fires a shot past Michigan defender Mack Gembis (4) and Michigan goalie Gerald Logan (22).

  • Loyola's Brian Sherlock, left, winds up to shoot and score...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Brian Sherlock, left, winds up to shoot and score a goal to tie game at 10 in the fourth quarter against Loyola Maryland on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Syracuse midfielder Ben Williams (37) and Johns Hopkins midfielder Drew...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Syracuse midfielder Ben Williams (37) and Johns Hopkins midfielder Drew Kennedy (76) in action during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Maryland midfielder Bobby Gribbin (34) celebrates during the NCAA lacrosse...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Bobby Gribbin (34) celebrates during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Loyola's Charley Toomey coaches against Towson.

    Amy Davis, Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Charley Toomey coaches against Towson.

  • Loyola's Jack Carrigan defends Army's Tim Stackpole at Ridley Athletic...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Jack Carrigan defends Army's Tim Stackpole at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Loyola's Pat Frazier, right, knocks the ball loose from the...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Pat Frazier, right, knocks the ball loose from the stick of Maryland's Matt Rambo, left, in the second quarter on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Maryland's Henry West, center, shoots against Penn's Kevin Gayhardt in...

    Kenneth K. Lam, Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Henry West, center, shoots against Penn's Kevin Gayhardt in the second quarter at Byrd Stadium.

  • Maryland attackman Dylan Maltz (25) in action during the NCAA...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland attackman Dylan Maltz (25) in action during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Maryland attackman Dylan Maltz runs by Michigan defender Stefan Bergman...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland attackman Dylan Maltz runs by Michigan defender Stefan Bergman behind the net.

  • Maryland midfielder Bryan Cole (45) in action against North Carolina...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Bryan Cole (45) in action against North Carolina midfielder Jake Matthai (6) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Loyola midfielder Jared Mintzlaff puts his hands to his helmet...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola midfielder Jared Mintzlaff puts his hands to his helmet after failing to score with a chance to tie Virginia, which celebrate as time expires at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Joe LoCascio shoots and scores against Ohio State.

    Greg Fiume / Maryland Athletics

    Joe LoCascio shoots and scores against Ohio State.

  • Towson's Spencer Parks, left, takes a shot against Hofstra's Brenden...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Spencer Parks, left, takes a shot against Hofstra's Brenden Lynch (#42) and goalie Chris Selva in the second quarter. Hofstra defeated Towson 9-2 Saturday in a men's lacrosse game at Johnny Unitas Stadium.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Kieran Eissler rears back to fire a...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Kieran Eissler rears back to fire a shot in front of Virginia midfielder Jack Falk.

  • Maryland's goalie Kyle Bernlohr, center, gets control of the ball...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's goalie Kyle Bernlohr, center, gets control of the ball to prevent Yale from gaining possession late in the fourth quarter. Maryland defeated Yale in the first round of the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Towson's Mike Lowe and goalie Tyler White defends against Ohio...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Mike Lowe and goalie Tyler White defends against Ohio State's Carter Brown, left, as he wings up for a shot in the fourth quarter.

  • Loyola goalie Pat McEnerney reacts after yielding the eventual game-winning...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola goalie Pat McEnerney reacts after yielding the eventual game-winning goal, scored by Virginia midfielder Zed Williams.

  • Maryland's Henry West, center, shoots against Penn's Matt McMahon, left,...

    Kenneth K. Lam, Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Henry West, center, shoots against Penn's Matt McMahon, left, and Kevin Gayhardt in the second quarter at Byrd Stadium.

  • Towson's Andrew Hodgson, right, celebrates his goal against Johns Hopkins...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Andrew Hodgson, right, celebrates his goal against Johns Hopkins with teammates Joe Seider, left, and Ben McCarty.

  • Loyola Maryland's Nikko Pontrello tries to get past Penn State...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Nikko Pontrello tries to get past Penn State goalkeeper Connor Darcey in the first quarter.

  • Loyola Maryland's Graham Savio can't hold on to the ball...

    Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Graham Savio can't hold on to the ball after a faceoff in the first half.

  • Maryland's Mac Pons (43) checks Denver's Jack Bobzien (11) during...

    RICH SCHULTZ / Associated Press

    Maryland's Mac Pons (43) checks Denver's Jack Bobzien (11) during the first half of the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse championship.

  • Maryland defender Tim Muller (36) in action against North Carolina...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland defender Tim Muller (36) in action against North Carolina defender Matt Shannon (66) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Loyola Maryland defenders Jack Carrigan, left, and Pat Frazier watch...

    Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland defenders Jack Carrigan, left, and Pat Frazier watch as a ball beats goalkeeper Grant Limone for a goal in the first half.

  • Navy's T.J. Hanzsche circles the crease before passing off during...

    Matthew Cole / Baltimore Sun Media Group

    Navy's T.J. Hanzsche circles the crease before passing off during Tuesday afternoon's game against Towson at the Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

  • Johns Hopkins goalkeeper Eric Schneider turns back as defender Eddie...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins goalkeeper Eric Schneider turns back as defender Eddie Schurr (8) watches a shot by Virginia midfielder Greg Coholan find the net for the game's first goal at Homewood Field.

  • Towson's Dan Livingston checks Navy's Casey Rees.

    Matthew Cole / Baltimore Sun Media Group

    Towson's Dan Livingston checks Navy's Casey Rees.

  • Johns Hopkins attackman Wells Stanwick (42) celebrates during the NCAA...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins attackman Wells Stanwick (42) celebrates during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Maryland's Bryan Cole, right, takes a shot at Loyola Maryland...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Bryan Cole, right, takes a shot at Loyola Maryland goalie Grant Limone, left, in the third quarter on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Loyola Maryland's Brian Sherlock lines up a scoring shot against...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Brian Sherlock lines up a scoring shot against Penn State in the second quarter.

  • Maryland men's lacrosse head coach John Tillman is pictured before...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland men's lacrosse head coach John Tillman is pictured before a game against Loyola Maryland on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • North Carolina attackman Jimmy Bitter (4) in action against Maryland...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    North Carolina attackman Jimmy Bitter (4) in action against Maryland defender Mac Pons (43) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Maryland's Mac Pons (43) checks Denver's Jack Bobzien (11) during...

    RICH SCHULTZ / Associated Press

    Maryland's Mac Pons (43) checks Denver's Jack Bobzien (11) during the first half of the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse championship.

  • Loyola Maryland's Nikko Pontrello cradles the ball in the first...

    Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Nikko Pontrello cradles the ball in the first half.

  • Johns Hopkins attackman Wells Stanwick, center, takes a shot at...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins attackman Wells Stanwick, center, takes a shot at Towson goalkeeper Tyler White, left, and defenseman Mike Lowe.

  • Loyola Maryland's Romar Dennis celebrates his late goal against Penn...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Romar Dennis celebrates his late goal against Penn State in the fourth quarter.

  • Loyola Maryland's Nikko Pontrello is checked by Penn State's Ryan...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Nikko Pontrello is checked by Penn State's Ryan Guittare as he shoots in the third quarter.

  • Loyola Maryland's Tyler Albrecht takes a shot in the third...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Tyler Albrecht takes a shot in the third quarter.

  • Loyola's Jason Crane gets hit with a shot in front...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Jason Crane gets hit with a shot in front of goalie Grant Limone (42) at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Denver's Wesley Berg (14) celebrates his goal against Maryland during...

    RICH SCHULTZ / Associated Press

    Denver's Wesley Berg (14) celebrates his goal against Maryland during the second half of the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse championship.

  • Loyola Maryland goalkeeper Pat McEnerney prepares for a shot by...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland goalkeeper Pat McEnerney prepares for a shot by Penn State's Pat Manley in the second quarter.

  • Colgate's Noah Cartwright tries to defend Loyola Maryland's Nikko Pontrello...

    Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun

    Colgate's Noah Cartwright tries to defend Loyola Maryland's Nikko Pontrello in the first half.

  • Fans celebrate during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Fans celebrate during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • North Carolina midfielder Shane Simpson (22) in action against Maryland...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    North Carolina midfielder Shane Simpson (22) in action against Maryland midfielder Adam DiMillo (23) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • University of Maryland 's Joe LoCascio, left, shoots pass Yale's...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    University of Maryland 's Joe LoCascio, left, shoots pass Yale's Alirio DeMeireles, right, to score Maryland's first goal in the first quarter of their first-round game in the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Towson's Joe Seider, center, loses the ball as Johns Hopkins'...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Joe Seider, center, loses the ball as Johns Hopkins' Robert Enright, left, and Joe Carlini defend.

  • Towson's Spencer Parks (#6) gets up from the field after...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Spencer Parks (#6) gets up from the field after Ohio State defeated Towson, 7-6.

  • A shot by Colgate's Peter Donato heads for the net...

    Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun

    A shot by Colgate's Peter Donato heads for the net and past Loyola Maryland goalkeeper Grant Limone.

  • Maryland midfielder Joe LoCascio (5) launches a shot by North...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Joe LoCascio (5) launches a shot by North Carolina midfielder Tate Jozokos (28) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Maryland goalie Kyle Bernlohr, left, smothers the ball to keep...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland goalie Kyle Bernlohr, left, smothers the ball to keep it away from Yale's Ben Reeves, right, late in the fourth quarter. Maryland defeated Yale, 8-7, in the first round of the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Michigan defender Stefan Bergman lays a hard hit on Maryland...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Michigan defender Stefan Bergman lays a hard hit on Maryland midfielder Charlie Raffa.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Joel Tinney reacts after scoring a goal...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Joel Tinney reacts after scoring a goal against Virginia.

  • Maryland's Joe LoCascio, right, winds up to shot and score...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Joe LoCascio, right, winds up to shot and score Maryland's sixth goal dispite a defensive effort by Yale's Reilly Naton, left, in the fourth quarter. Maryland defeated Yale in the first round of the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Maryland's Colin Heacock, left, celebrates his second-quarter goal with teammate...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Colin Heacock, left, celebrates his second-quarter goal with teammate Matt Rambo. Maryland defeated Yale, 8-7, in the first round of the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Towson's Joe Seider, center, takes a behind the back shot...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Joe Seider, center, takes a behind the back shot at Hofstra's (l-r) goalie Chris Selva, Finn Sullivan (#44) and John Reicherter (#22) in the second quarter. Hofstra defeated Towson 9-2 Saturday in a men's lacrosse game at Johnny Unitas Stadium.

  • Navy's Casey Rees shoots on Towson goalkeeper Tyler White, scoring...

    Matthew Cole / Baltimore Sun Media Group

    Navy's Casey Rees shoots on Towson goalkeeper Tyler White, scoring for Navy during Tuesday afternoon's game at Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

  • Loyola Maryland's Brian Sherlock winds up for a shot in...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Brian Sherlock winds up for a shot in the fourth quarter.

  • Towson's Mike Lynch, left, takes a shot against Ohio State...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Mike Lynch, left, takes a shot against Ohio State goalie Tom Carey, right, in the second quarter.

  • Towson's Shawn Nadelen coaches against Loyola.

    Amy Davis, Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Shawn Nadelen coaches against Loyola.

  • Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

  • Denver's head coach Bill Tierney gets a hug after their...

    RICH SCHULTZ / Associated Press

    Denver's head coach Bill Tierney gets a hug after their 10-5 win over Maryland in the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse championship.

  • Towson's Mike Lynch, top, joins teammates Joe Seider, right, and...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Mike Lynch, top, joins teammates Joe Seider, right, and Greg Cuccinello, left, after Cuccinello scored against Johns Hopkins.

  • Maryland's Bobby Gribbin (34) runs into Denver's Christian Thomas (43)...

    RICH SCHULTZ / Associated Press

    Maryland's Bobby Gribbin (34) runs into Denver's Christian Thomas (43) during the first half of the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse championship.

  • Hofstra head coach Seth Tierney is pictured in the third...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Hofstra head coach Seth Tierney is pictured in the third quarter. Hofstra defeated Towson 9-2 Saturday in a men's lacrosse game at Johnny Unitas Stadium.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Joel Tinney (55) in action during the...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Joel Tinney (55) in action during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Loyola Maryland men's lacrosse head coach Charley Toomey is pictured...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland men's lacrosse head coach Charley Toomey is pictured before a game against Maryland on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Towson's Andrew Cordes defends the crease as Navy's Jack Ray...

    Matthew Cole / Baltimore Sun Media Group

    Towson's Andrew Cordes defends the crease as Navy's Jack Ray looks for an open teammate.

  • Johns Hopkins attacker Ryan Brown celebrates a goal with his...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins attacker Ryan Brown celebrates a goal with his teammates.

  • Maryland midfielder Joseph Fitzpatrick races past Michigan midfielder Parker McKee.

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Joseph Fitzpatrick races past Michigan midfielder Parker McKee.

  • Maryland's Matt Rambo, center, takes a shot against Yale goalie...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Matt Rambo, center, takes a shot against Yale goalie Eric Natale, left, and Christopher Keating, right, in the third quarter. Maryland defeated Yale, 8-7, in the first round of the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Johns Hopkins attackman Wells Stanwick (42) in action against Syracuse...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins attackman Wells Stanwick (42) in action against Syracuse defender Jay McDermott (88).

  • Johns Hopkins' Patrick Fraser scores in the second quarter as...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins' Patrick Fraser scores in the second quarter as Princeton's Sam Gravitte closes in on him.

  • Johns Hopkins celebrates after their NCAA lacrosse quarterfinal win over...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins celebrates after their NCAA lacrosse quarterfinal win over Syracuse at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium in Annapolis.

  • The Big Ten Conference logo at Homewood Field.

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    The Big Ten Conference logo at Homewood Field.

  • Towson defenseman JoJo Ostrander, left, brings the ball up the...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Towson defenseman JoJo Ostrander, left, brings the ball up the field as Johns Hopkins' Holden Cattoni tries to knock it away.

  • College Park, Md.--4/8/15-- Maryland's Jay Carlson, right, tries to prevent...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    College Park, Md.--4/8/15-- Maryland's Jay Carlson, right, tries to prevent Loyola goalie Grant Limone, left, from clearing the ball in the fourth quarter. Maryland defeated Loyola by score of 11 to 10 in men's lacrosse at Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium. Kenneth K. Lam/Baltimore Sun _KKL4413 sp-loyola-maryland-p11-lacrosse lam

  • Johns Hopkins celebrates a 14-9 victory over Penn State.

    Greg Fiume / Maryland Athletics

    Johns Hopkins celebrates a 14-9 victory over Penn State.

  • Loyola midfielder Graham Savio is double-teamed by Virginia midfielders Jeff...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola midfielder Graham Savio is double-teamed by Virginia midfielders Jeff Kratky (back) and Tyler German (12) at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Maryland's Bryan Cole, right, watches his shot goes into Loyola's...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Bryan Cole, right, watches his shot goes into Loyola's goal for the game-winning goal in the fourth quarter against Loyola Maryland on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Loyola's Brian Sherlock flips over after scoring a goal to...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Brian Sherlock flips over after scoring a goal to tie the game at 10 in the fourth quarter on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Towson's Joe Seider, right, takes a shot at Hofstra's Brenden...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Joe Seider, right, takes a shot at Hofstra's Brenden Lynch (#42) and goalie Chris Selva, left, in the second quarter. Hofstra defeated Towson 9-2 Saturday in a men's lacrosse game at Johnny Unitas Stadium.

  • Loyola goalkeeper Grant Limone blocks a shot at Ridley Athletic...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola goalkeeper Grant Limone blocks a shot at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Maryland's Colin Heacock (2) scores past Denver goalie Ryan LaPlante...

    RICH SCHULTZ / Associated Press

    Maryland's Colin Heacock (2) scores past Denver goalie Ryan LaPlante (10) as defenders Garret Holst (25) and Chris Hampton assist during the first half of the NCAA Division I men's lacrosse championship.

  • Towson's JoJo Ostrander was called for slashing Loyola's Zach Sirico...

    Amy Davis, Baltimore Sun

    Towson's JoJo Ostrander was called for slashing Loyola's Zach Sirico in the closing minutes of the game.

  • Johns Hopkins' Joel Tinney (55) celebrates his fourth-quarter goal, which...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins' Joel Tinney (55) celebrates his fourth-quarter goal, which put the Blue Jays ahead 15-14.

  • Loyola's Zach Herreweyers scores in the second quarter against Towson.

    Amy Davis, Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Zach Herreweyers scores in the second quarter against Towson.

  • Towson's Joe Seider takes a shot against Hofstra in the...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Joe Seider takes a shot against Hofstra in the first quarter. Hofstra defeated Towson 9-2 Saturday in a men's lacrosse game at Johnny Unitas Stadium.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Patrick Fraser tries to stick-check Virginia midfielder...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Patrick Fraser tries to stick-check Virginia midfielder Will McNamara.

  • Army's Connor Cook) celebrates a goal scored on Loyola goalkeeper...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Army's Connor Cook) celebrates a goal scored on Loyola goalkeeper Grant Limone at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Holden Cattoni (99) intercepts a pass intended...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Holden Cattoni (99) intercepts a pass intended for University of Maryland midfielder Bobby Gribbin (34) during an NCAA Men's lacrosse match between the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins at the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland.

  • Princeton's Gavin McBride gets off a shot under pressure from...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Princeton's Gavin McBride gets off a shot under pressure from Johns Hopkins' John Crawley. He scored to tie the game at 14 in the fourth quarter.

  • Virginia goalie Matt Barrett stops a shot by Loyola midfielder...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Virginia goalie Matt Barrett stops a shot by Loyola midfielder Brian Sherlock at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Johns Hopkins attackman Wells Stanwick (42) attempts to pick up...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins attackman Wells Stanwick (42) attempts to pick up a loose ball during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Fans congratulate Maryland players after the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Fans congratulate Maryland players after the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Virginia midfielder Carlson Milikin pursues Johns Hopkins midfielder Cody Radziewicz.

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Virginia midfielder Carlson Milikin pursues Johns Hopkins midfielder Cody Radziewicz.

  • Maryland goalie Kyle Bernlohr (35), bottom, tries to dive ahead...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland goalie Kyle Bernlohr (35), bottom, tries to dive ahead of Yale's Eric Scott, center, and Jeff Cimbalista to gain possession of the out-of-bounds ball in the fourth quarter. Maryland defeated Yale, 8-7, in the first round of the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Loyola Maryland's Zach Herreweyers scores his third goal of the...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Zach Herreweyers scores his third goal of the game in the third quarter against Penn State.

  • Navy's Matt Rees takes possession as Towson moves in during...

    Matthew Cole / Baltimore Sun Media Group

    Navy's Matt Rees takes possession as Towson moves in during Tuesday afternoon's game at the Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

  • Loyola's Nikko Pontrello (18) celebrates his unassisted goal with Zach...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola's Nikko Pontrello (18) celebrates his unassisted goal with Zach Sirico at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Hunter Moreland tries to hold on to...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Hunter Moreland tries to hold on to possession.

  • Princeton's Gavin McBride scores the game-winning goal against Johns Hopkins...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Princeton's Gavin McBride scores the game-winning goal against Johns Hopkins goalie Eric Schneider in overtime.

  • Johns Hopkins attacker Wells Stanwick protects the ball.

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins attacker Wells Stanwick protects the ball.

  • Maryland midfielder Joe LoCascio (5) and North Carolina defender Zach...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Joe LoCascio (5) and North Carolina defender Zach Powers (77) in action during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • North Carolina attackman Jimmy Bitter (4) reacts after being hit...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    North Carolina attackman Jimmy Bitter (4) reacts after being hit by Maryland midfielder Henry West (38) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder John Crawley (44) in action against Syracuse...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder John Crawley (44) in action against Syracuse midfielder Mike Messina (21).

  • Maryland's Joe LoCascio winds up to shoot and score against...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Joe LoCascio winds up to shoot and score against Loyola Maryland in the first quarter on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Maryland midfielder Charlie Raffa (7) and North Carolina midfielder Stephen...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Charlie Raffa (7) and North Carolina midfielder Stephen Kelly (24) fight for a loose ball during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Johns Hopkins celebrates after its NCAA lacrosse quarterfinal win over...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins celebrates after its NCAA lacrosse quarterfinal win over Syracuse at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium.

  • Towson head coach Shawn Nadelen, left, talks with a game...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson head coach Shawn Nadelen, left, talks with a game official with 14 seconds left in the fourth quarter.

  • From left, Towson's Ben McCarty, Loyola's Tyler Albrecht, Towson's Pat...

    Amy Davis, Baltimore Sun

    From left, Towson's Ben McCarty, Loyola's Tyler Albrecht, Towson's Pat Conroy and Loyola's Brendan Donovan battle for the ball.

  • Loyola Maryland's Zac Davliakos, left, and Graham Savio battle with...

    Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Zac Davliakos, left, and Graham Savio battle with Colgate's Collin Orr for possession of the ball after a faceoff in the first half.

  • Maryland attackman Dylan Maltz fires a shot toward Michigan goalie...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland attackman Dylan Maltz fires a shot toward Michigan goalie Gerald Logan.

  • Matt Rambo cradles the ball against Ohio State.

    Greg Fiume / Maryland Athletics

    Matt Rambo cradles the ball against Ohio State.

  • Towson's Joe Seider, left, takes a behind the back shot...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Towson's Joe Seider, left, takes a behind the back shot pass Hofstra's John Reicherter (#22) in the second quarter. Hofstra defeated Towson 9-2 Saturday in a men's lacrosse game at Johnny Unitas Stadium.

  • Johns Hopkins' Wells Stanwick lines up a shot against Princeton...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins' Wells Stanwick lines up a shot against Princeton in the second quarter.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Hunter Moreland (31) and Johns Hopkins attackman...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Hunter Moreland (31) and Johns Hopkins attackman Ryan Brown (4) lay a hard hit on Syracuse midfielder Ben Williams (37) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Hofstra's Brier Davis, left, celebrates after he scored Hofstra's fifth...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Hofstra's Brier Davis, left, celebrates after he scored Hofstra's fifth goal against Towson goalie Tyler White, on ground, in the third quarter. Hofstra defeated Towson 9-2 Saturday in a men's lacrosse game at Johnny Unitas Stadium.

  • University of Maryland midfielder Adam DiMillo (23) and Johns Hopkins...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    University of Maryland midfielder Adam DiMillo (23) and Johns Hopkins attacker Wells Stanwick (42) fight for possession during an NCAA Men's lacrosse match between the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins at the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland.

  • Maryland's Matt Rambo, right, celebrates his game-tying goal in front...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Matt Rambo, right, celebrates his game-tying goal in front of Yale's Brian Pratt, left, in the fourth quarter. Maryland defeated Yale, 8-7, in the first round of the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Loyola Maryland's Zach Sirico tries to get by Colgate's Leo...

    Kim Hairston / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Zach Sirico tries to get by Colgate's Leo Stouros in the first half.

  • Loyola defender Jason Crane shadows Virginia attack Owen Van Arsdale...

    Karl Merton Ferron / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola defender Jason Crane shadows Virginia attack Owen Van Arsdale at Ridley Athletic Complex.

  • Johns Hopkins longstick midfielder Nikhon Schuler (36) plays defense on...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins longstick midfielder Nikhon Schuler (36) plays defense on Syracuse midfielder Nicky Galasso (5).

  • April 25, 2015: University of Maryland midfielder Joe LoCascio (5)...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    April 25, 2015: University of Maryland midfielder Joe LoCascio (5) in action during an NCAA Men's lacrosse match between the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins at the University of Maryland in College Park.

  • Ohio State's Jesse King, center, passes to a teammate as...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Ohio State's Jesse King, center, passes to a teammate as Towson's Mike Lowe, left, and JoJo Ostrander, right, defend.

  • Maryland's Jay Carlson (32), left, runs to teammate Henry West,...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Jay Carlson (32), left, runs to teammate Henry West, center, to celebrate West's eventual game-winning goal against Yale in the fourth quarter. Maryland defeated Yale, 8-7, in the first round of the 2015 NCAA men's lacrosse tournament at Capital Field at Byrd Stadium.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Connor Reed (16) in action against Syracuse...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Connor Reed (16) in action against Syracuse longstick midfielder Peter Macartney (28) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Towson defenseman JoJo Ostrander, left, chases Johns Hopkins midfielder Patrick...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Towson defenseman JoJo Ostrander, left, chases Johns Hopkins midfielder Patrick Fraser.

  • Loyola Maryland coach Charley Toomey after an 8-6 win over...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland coach Charley Toomey after an 8-6 win over Penn State.

  • Loyola Maryland's Romar Dennis winds up before scoring the final...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Romar Dennis winds up before scoring the final goal of the game.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Hunter Moreland and Maryland midfielder Jon Garino...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Hunter Moreland and Maryland midfielder Jon Garino Jr. fight for possession.

  • Loyola Maryland's Romar Dennis, right, takes a shot past Maryland's...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Loyola Maryland's Romar Dennis, right, takes a shot past Maryland's Tim Muller in the fourth quarter on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Princeton's Zach Currier scores the team's sixth goal against Johns...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Princeton's Zach Currier scores the team's sixth goal against Johns Hopkins goalie Eric Schneider in the first quarter.

  • Maryland midfielder Charlie Raffa fires a shot.

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland midfielder Charlie Raffa fires a shot.

  • Fans celebrate during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinal between Johns Hopkins...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Fans celebrate during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinal between Johns Hopkins and Syracuse at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium.

  • University of Maryland midfielder Connor Kelly (40) in action against...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    University of Maryland midfielder Connor Kelly (40) in action against Johns Hopkins midfielder Joe Carlini (1) during an NCAA Men's lacrosse match between the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins at the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland.

  • Johns Hopkins' Ryan Brown, second from right, shouts as midfielder...

    Karl Merton Ferron, Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins' Ryan Brown, second from right, shouts as midfielder Joel Tinney, left, runs in to celebrate Brown's goal against Towson.

  • Johns Hopkins midfielder Hunter Moreland (31) fights for possession with...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins midfielder Hunter Moreland (31) fights for possession with Syracuse midfielder Ben Williams (37) during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Johns Hopkins attackman Shack Stanwick (32) in action during the...

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Johns Hopkins attackman Shack Stanwick (32) in action during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

  • Maryland's Bryan Cole (#45), right, scored the eventual game-winning goal...

    Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore Sun

    Maryland's Bryan Cole (#45), right, scored the eventual game-winning goal against Loyola Maryland as teammate Jay Carlson, left, celebrates on Wednesday. Maryland won 11-10 at Byrd Stadium.

  • Maryland celebrates during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

    Daniel Kucin Jr. / For The Baltimore Sun

    Maryland celebrates during the NCAA lacrosse quarterfinals.

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When practice began in the first week of January, about 19 weeks ago, the hopes of every team were to be playing this weekend.

There are just four left standing after a season that saw huge upsets, remarkable comebacks and inspired play. On one side you have a rivalry, Johns Hopkins vs. Maryland, that almost defines the sport. On the other side, you have two teams, Notre Dame and Denver, searching for their first national title.

Every young player dreams of playing this weekend, and they work from the first time they pick up a ground ball to have this moment.

A lot of experts had Notre Dame and Denver at Nos. 1 and 2 entering the season, and really in no particular order. If you had Hopkins playing Maryland in the Final Four, go buy a Mega Millions ticket.

It should be a fun and exciting weekend. Here’s what to look for in the two games Saturday at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia:

Denver vs. Notre Dame, 1 p.m., ESPN2

Coach Kevin Corrigan has built a national power in South Bend, Ind. Notre Dame has never won a national title, but this roster is deep — the Irish played 27 players in both NCAA playoff games — and the players are big, fast and strong. They bullied Albany late in the quarterfinal victory by winning the 50-50 battles. The Irish senior class is making their third championship weekend appearance. They lost the title game 11-9 to Duke in 2014. Lefty attackman and catalyst Matt Kavanagh has gone cold, but Notre Dame has multiple weapons with Conor Doyle, Sergio Perkovic and Nick Ossello picking up the slack in the tournament.

Notre Dame is built on a foundation of defense. This team likes to run, as evidenced by its No. 6 pace of play rating. Jack Near is a defensive midfielder who can turn a stop into a fastbreak in the blink of an eye. The defense remains stout (No. 18 in scoring against) and is led by Matt Landis and Garrett Epple. Landis is a relentless coverman. Goalie Shane Doss has moments of brilliance and others where he struggles. Corrigan utilizes a 10-man ride, or full court press, to create pace and chaos.

In their regular-season loss at Denver, the Irish took just 24 shots and surrendered four extra-man goals. They committed five faceoff violations and lost the majority of the draws, yet led by three entering the fourth quarter before stalling. Can the Irish win enough faceoffs on Saturday?

Notre Dame is 12-2 for a reason, It’s a very talented and a balanced group with a proper dash of experience. The players are grounded in Corrigan’s culture and approach.

Denver’s senior class is appearing in a third consecutive championship weekend, having lost in the semifinals to Syracuse (2013) and Duke (2014). Coach Bill Tierney won six NCAA championships at Princeton and is trying for a first at Denver with a roster of players who represent 17 states and two Canadian provinces. This team has world-class skill.

The Pioneers are masters of the half-court game — preferring a slow pace (No. 63 in pace), where their six-on-six patterns have been unstoppable. Denver ranks second in offensive efficiency and shooting percentage (37 percent). They win faceoffs at a 67 percent clip with Trevor Baptiste clamping his way to greatness. Baptiste hasn’t been his usual self in the post-season which bears watching. Maryland transfer Connor Cannizzaro is the Pioneers’ most dynamic dodger who has lightning for feet. He is the penetrator that this offense missed in their last two NCAA losses. Shooter Wesley Berg (180 career goals) hit net six times against Ohio State last Saturday and is a big-game hunter. The Pioneers trailed 7-1 early, never panicked, then rolled to their 11th straight win. Lefty playmaker Zach Miller has 32 assists. Midfielder Tyler Pace has more than 40 points. Denver dissects defenses with Prestissimo stickwork, dodges topside and feeds to the in-side or back-side. It’s beautiful to watch.

The defense is good, not great. Christian Burgdorf and Carson Cannon are solid cover-men down low. Expect Notre Dame to probe the defensive midfielders. Homegrown goalie Ryan LaPlante was excellent in the first round against Brown.

Johns Hopkins vs. Maryland, 3:30 p.m., ESPN2

They have met 112 times, including NCAA championship games in 1973, 1974 and 1979. They’ve staged tension-filled playoff games throughout the past four decades. Quite simply, they don’t like each other. This time, somebody drives home on Saturday night and the other plays on Memorial Day.

The Terp seniors are playing in their third championship weekend. That’s quite an accomplishment. Maryland has become a perennial over-achiever for coach John Tillman, a team defined by grit, toughness and attention to detail. The recipe for success starts with defense. Maryland owns the nation’s stingiest group, led by Matt Dunn, Casey Ikeda, Mac Pons, Matt Neufeldt, Isiah Davis-Allen and goalie Kyle Bernlohr. They double-team and support while protecting the paint. They also rely on their No. 26-ranked offense and faceoff scheme to buttress the defense, preferring slow tempo, low-scoring games. The Terps rank No. 61 of 69 teams in the nation in pace of play. When Maryland is playing well, it commits very few turnovers.

Maryland enters the semifinal off its most-complete win of the season, a 14-7 destruction of North Carolina that was a decided before halftime. Midfielders Bryan Cole and Joe LoCascio have caught fire. The Terps got production from their second midfield line of Connor Kelly, Colin Heacock and Bobby Gribbin. Kelly entered that contest with five points on the year and scored a hat trick in the first half. Just 46 percent of Maryland goals have been assisted against 62 percent for Hopkins — a more than subtle style difference.

Faceoffs and ground balls dictate pace and tempo. Maryland’s Charlie Raffa is a war horse at the face-off stripe. He went 12 of 19 against the Tar Heels and took control of the game. Hopkins knocked Raffa around in the Blue Jays’ regular-season win. When Raffa left the game, the momentum swung to Hopkins.

Johns Hopkins has rattled off seven straight wins after a startling 4-6 start. The low point was a 15-12 loss to Ohio State on Easter Sunday. Coach Dave Pietramala has managed his team through the off-the-field tragedy of losing a teammate. It’s been Pietramala’s finest moment as a leader of young men.

Like Maryland, the Jays come into this game off a peak effort. The offense, under the direction of Wells Stanwick, is humming. The Jays lit up Virginia for 19 goals and Syracuse for 16 during the last two weeks, shooting 41 percent in the process. Make no mistake, Maryland’s defense towers over ACC schools. Ryan Brown scored eight goals in the regular season matchup and will draw more respect this time. Freshmen Shack Stanwick, Joel Tinney and Pat Fraser look to continue their strong rookie seasons.

Scoring has never been the issue for the 2015 Blue Jays. The defense is the problem. Hopkins is ranked No. 38 in scoring defense. It’s been a tad-bit better lately, but let’s not forget that Syracuse did score 15 against them last week. To their credit, the Jays have reduced self-inflicted wounds and are more assignment sound. Graduate-student goalie Eric Schneider is making 57 percent of his saves during the win streak. It’s a turnaround from 43 percent, when the Jays were 4-6.

The faceoff tandem of Drew Kennedy and Hunter Mooreland will try to frustrate and tire Raffa. The Stanwicks and invert midfielders will initiate from behind the Maryland net and throw skip passes up top for 10-12 yard shots. I don’t expect a track meet in a game that will be decided by mental toughness.

The odds will be stacked against the Hopkins-Maryland winner on Memorial Day regardless of who they face. The quick turnaround can produce inexplicable results. I’ve learned to respect the unexpected.

All four teams have a strong belief that they will be champion. May the best team win.

Quint Kessenich covers college sports for ESPN and writes a column for The Baltimore Sun during lacrosse season.