(In predicted order of finish)

1. Princeton

Princeton Coach Bill Tierney is looking to build a tradition of excellence in Tigertown. His squads have racked up 23 wins in the past two seasons, including two NCAA Tournament quarterfinal appearances.

The Princeton offense rests on the shoulders of attackers senior Justin Tortolani (38-11-49) and sophomore assist-specialist Kevin Lowe (12-43-55).

Second-team All-America goalie Scott Bacigalupo (.670 save percentage) had a remarkable season in net last year--as a freshman--and the Baltimore, Md.-native will likely be an even more formidable goaltender this year.

By the looks of it, the Tigers are headed for great things this year, but keep in mind, Princeton has yet to prove itself in post-season action. Tierney's crew stumbled against Towson State in the quarterfinals last year, falling in triple-overtime at home.

But the Tigers have the talent: If they can make the big plays this year, the could go far.

2. Harvard

Harvard is hoping its veteran defense and bumper crop of offensive recruits can gel to produce a big year. See article above.

3. Brown

Brown, last year's Cinderella team, may be walking on broken glass this year.

With the absence of high scoring midfielders, Andy Towers (33-13-46) and Jay McMahon (33-9-42), the bears will be hard pressed to repeat their 13-1 performance of a year ago.

They will be looking for a big year out of All-America candidate goalie Pat Flynn (9.00 goals-against-average, .634 save percentage), and the potent attack tandem of Darren Lowe and Oliver Marti who combined for 71 goals last year. Senior Neil Munro (22-20-42) could also provide some punch.

4. Cornell

Unless a prolific scorer emerges, the Big Red is headed for big problems. The offense sputtered last year and the graduation of leading scorer John Snow (19-25-44) does not help. Junior midfielder John Busse (19-25-44) could be Cornell's only hope.