It's Miller Time: USA Men's Hockey Team Advances

Switzerland raised their sticks to the crowd at the end of the game. They exited the ice knowing that their hockey program and it's reputation gained an immense level of respect.

However, today's victory didn't belong to them.

The U.S. men's hockey team, led by Zach Parise's two third period goals, had just put themselves one step closer to getting what no one thought they would achieve—a medal.

This win did not come easy.

Swiss goal-tender Jonas Hiller saved mostly everything that the U.S. team threw at him. He even saved himself on a bad bounce at the end of the second frame.

The U.S. team dominated the Swiss team largely on grit and determination, outshooting them 44-19.  Hiller had to be spectacular from the opening face off, stopping a wrap around attempt within the first two minutes of the game.

Regardless of the outcome, Hiller, based on his play in this tournament, deserves his own special medal.  Up to this point, he has kept this team close, despite being clearly outmatched in every game.  In short, he gave his team a chance to win.

U.S. forward Zach Parise broke a scoreless tie in the third period with his power play goal, and even further solidified his role on this band of upstarts. Parise added an empty net goal with 12 seconds on the clock to cap the victory

This team has not had one favorable crowd, and that trend continued today.  With most of the Canada Hockey Place decked in red, the U.S. played to yet another hostile crowd.  It seems their upset of Canada on Sunday has given them the role of antagonist in this Olympic drama.

Every player on the U.S. team elevated their play, taking heed of the words that GM Brian Burke and coach Ron Wilson gave to them in practice yesterday. 

As a team, they played responsible defense in front of Miller, who wasn't tested until the third period.  They played with heart and grit, taking the play to the Swiss team early by finishing their checks and crowding Hiller at every opportunity.

Burke fielded major criticism for some of his roster choices prior to the start of these Olympic Games.  If the U.S. wins a medal, which looked to be unlikely prior to the start of the tournament, Burke's moves will make him look like a genius.  It may provide a signal of change in the way these teams are constructed.

Relying on the possibility of team chemistry, Burke and his subordinates put together a roster like they would have if they were assembling a pro team.

This U.S. team now holds it's fate in their own hands, and will face the winner of the Czech Republic-Finland match later today.

Also of note:

Today is the 30th anniversary of the 1980 U.S. men's team winning the gold medal over Finland.  Jim Craig, the starting goal-tender for that squad, was in attendance.

Ryan Miller's shutout was the first Olympic shutout earned since Mike Richter's in 2002.