ASU Hockey: New rankings put Sun Devils at No. 2

For the first time in almost a year, a team other than Arizona State is at the top of the mountain.

The newest ACHA rankings released Friday have the Sun Devils at No. 2 after their loss to Central Oklahoma last Thursday. Undefeated Central Oklahoma claimed the No. 1 spot in the rankings for the first time in school history.

Arizona State began last season No. 1 before falling to No. 2 in November in favor of Minot State. The Sun Devils won their head-to-head matchup Nov. 7, and reclaimed the top spot Nov. 12. Arizona State has consecutively held the No. 1 ranking since then,

The rankings are released on Fridays, and do not include the results of Thursday games, so Arizona State's win over Liberty is not factored into the decision.

Starting with this rankings, the ACHA shifted from a traditional coaches' poll to a computer poll, which factors in goal differential and strength of schedule. It does not punish or reward a team for a shootout loss, instead counting it as a tie.

Other Western Collegiate Hockey League teams in the top 25 include Central Oklahoma (No. 1), Oklahoma (No. 16), Arizona (No. 17) and Colorado State (No. 25).

Arizona State will play again Thursday at home against Colorado, as well as Friday and Saturday at home against Colorado State.