Every so often University of Denver coach Jim Montgomery will take 2 minutes (not like taking a penalty, at least we hope it doesn’t feel like that) and talk about an upcoming opponent, how the Pioneers are doing and then tackle a surprise topic.

Magness Mayhem: How is the team doing after a hard-fought Notre Dame series and what are points of emphasis going into this weekend?

Monty: I think we’re feeling good about ourselves. There’s still a lot of desperation in how we’re practicing, which is good. Which is going to mean we’re going to play desperate, which is good because we don’t have a lot of margin for error. We gotta play desperate.

What stands out to you about Nebraska-Omaha?

They’re a real good team. Their special teams every year I’ve coached against coach (Dean) Blais, both penalty kill and power play, have always been excellent. They’re always around 110, which is a great combination between penalty kill and power play. The other thing is they play so hard, they’re relentless. You’ve got to be prepared right from the start, they have great starts. I think they’re outscoring their opponents 22-8 in the first period.

Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?

I’m not a New Year’s resolution person. I believe in living the right way every day. I don’t always do it, but I try to.

@MagnessMayhem