Frozen Four 2012: Parker Milner Key to Boston College Eagles' Title Hopes

Parker Milner is the key cog to Boston College's well-oiled machine. Milner has had five shutouts through the course of the Eagles' 18-game winning streak.

Ferris State must solve Milner to win the Frozen Four championship. If they don't, they will go home disappointed.

Milner does not skate around the ice, but he is the Eagles' most important player to their championship hopes for a couple of simple reasons. 

Numbers Do Not Lie

Milner has been lights-out this season for Boston College. Opponents can try and poke holes in his game, but his statistics speak for themselves.

He is 28-5-0 this season with a 1.68 goals-against average. He stops nearly 94 percent of the shots he faces.

Milner's success has been magnified during the Eagles' winning streak. He has shutout five opponents during the win streak and allowed two goals or fewer in each of his last 17 starts.

Chris Kreider, Johnny Gaudreau and Barry Almeida are vital to the Boston College offense. But, none are more important than Milner's impervious play in net.

Great Defense Is Better Than Great Offense

Milner is the backbone of Boston College's defense.

Impenetrable defense is better than an electric offense. Milner's outstanding play creates momentum for the Eagles and infuriates opposing teams. He frustrates opponents by denying their best efforts consistently.

Ferris State is trying to win a Frozen Four championship in their program's first title appearance. They will rely on Jordie Johnston and Kyle Bonis' scoring to lead them to victory.

Milner's presence will stifle the Bulldogs' two best scorers and kill any initial momentum the Bulldogs hope to have.

Ferris State will look to grab a quick score and gain the support of the crowd. Milner will dishearten the Bulldogs by stopping any efforts.

Milner holds the Eagles' title hopes in the palm of his glove hand. The frustration he causes is better than any form of great offense the Bulldogs will bring to the table.