2025-26 Season Week 19 Preview

Another rivalry-filled weekend awaits in College Hockey South as the calendar inches closer to postseason hockey. With playoff races tightening across multiple divisions, every puck drop this weekend carries added weight—and there’s very little margin for error left.

Game of the Week: Florida Tech Panthers (ACDC) vs Embry-Riddle Ice Eagles (ACDC)

This week, the spotlight falls on the Space Coast as Florida Tech and Embry-Riddle square off in a massive two-game series with major CHS implications. Both programs have had strong campaigns, but this matchup will likely determine who finishes third in the division and secures a better playoff path. 

Florida Tech enters the series off a big 10-2 win against the Saint Leo ACDC team, following a three-game losing streak. The Panthers sit at 6-5 in CHS play and have 12 points. The Owls sit just behind with 11 points, with a record of 5-10 in CHS play. ERAU has dropped its last four, and looks to build some momentum with the playoffs coming up.

Expect intensity, physical play, and plenty of emotion as two in-state rivals battle with real stakes on the line.

• Friday, Feb. 13, at 9:45 PM EST - FIT @ ERAU (Daytona Ice Arena)

• Saturday, Feb. 14, at 4:30 PM EST - ERAU @ FIT (Space Coast Iceplex)

Vanderbilt Commodores (M3) at Tennessee Ice Vols (M3)

It doesn’t get much bigger than an in-state rivalry with playoff hopes hanging in the balance. Tennessee welcomes Vanderbilt for a critical series that could determine whether the Commodores extend their season or see it come to an early end.

For Vanderbilt, the math is simple: win. Sitting on the playoff bubble, the Commodores need points desperately to climb back into contention. Anything less than a strong weekend will make the postseason picture extremely difficult. Vandy must sweep the series to remain in playoff contention after a season that finds them with three CHS points and coming off a five-game losing streak.

Tennessee, on the other hand, has the chance to play spoiler. The Vols have shown flashes of high-level play throughout the year and would love nothing more than to dash their rival’s playoff dreams. The Vols sit with six points in the division and have been dormant since January 22nd.

• Friday, Feb. 13, at 11:00 PM EST (Knoxville Civic Coliseum)

• Saturday, Feb. 14, at 1:00 PM EST (Knoxville Civic Coliseum)

Lynn Fighting Knights (M3) at Florida Atlantic Owls (M3)

South Florida bragging rights are on the line as Lynn and FAU meet in a series with serious postseason ramifications. The Owls have been trending upward in recent weeks, while Lynn is still fighting to work its way into the playoff conversation.

For the Fighting Knights, this weekend represents a huge opportunity. A decisive series win would not only boost their confidence but also put them squarely back in the mix for a potential playoff berth. Consistent scoring and disciplined defensive play will be key if they want to make that push. Lynn will look for a continuation of strong goaltending, following only two goals allowed last weekend.

Despite their struggles, FAU will look to spoil the Fighting Knights’ playoff hopes and capture a few more CHS points for themselves.

• Friday, Feb. 13, at 6:45 PM EST (Boca Ice)

South Carolina Gamecocks (M3) at Kennesaw State Owls (M3)

It’s crunch time for Kennesaw State, and this weekend’s series carries major postseason implications. The Owls control their own destiny, but there’s little room for error—wins are essential if they want to stay comfortably inside the playoff picture.

Currently holding onto a playoff spot, KSU knows the margin is slim. With multiple teams still in striking distance, any stumble could open the door for others to leapfrog them in the standings. Taking care of business against South Carolina would go a long way toward solidifying their position and easing the pressure heading into the final weeks.

The Gamecocks may be locked into a playoff spot, but they can still play spoiler against a KSU team that beat them earlier in the season.

Look for the Owls to bring intensity and focus from puck drop, fully aware that this weekend could be the difference between extending their season and watching from the sidelines.

• Friday, Feb. 13, at 8:15 PM EST (Atlanta Ice House)

• Saturday, Feb. 14, at 11:30 AM EST (Atlanta Ice House)

With rivalries renewed and playoff races tightening, Week 19 sets the stage for another electric chapter of College Hockey South action. Buckle up—the stretch run is officially here.

Follow College Hockey South on social media for Game of the Week coverage, live updates, and post-game recaps throughout the weekend.

ABOUT College Hockey South: Founded in 2008, College Hockey South is a 29-school, 45 team intercollegiate hockey conference spanning eight southeastern U.S. states. College Hockey South is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization.