May Madness is here, and the 2025 NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Tournament is already heating up with storylines, streaks, and serious upsets on the horizon. Here’s a bold, no-holds-barred breakdown of the first round — with predictions powered by momentum, matchups, and a little Vegas edge.
Play-In Predictions – Wednesday, May 7
Siena vs. UAlbany
Pick: Siena wins
The Saints are red-hot and rolling. Don’t let the seed fool you — Siena’s energy is undeniable, and they’re not done yet. Albany’s got the name, but Siena’s got the fire. The Saints punch their ticket and make their way into the real dance.
Air Force vs. Robert Morris
Pick: Air Force wins
Disciplined, well-coached, and relentless between the lines, the Falcons take care of business. Robert Morris can be unpredictable, but Air Force’s system and composure give them the edge.
First Round Predictions – May 10 & 11
Richmond vs. North Carolina (8) – May 10
Pick: Richmond wins
It’s the biggest statement in program history. The Spiders take down the Tar Heels and continue their recent tear against ACC teams. Richmond doesn’t blink. They impose their will and shock the bracket in Round 1.
Penn State (5) vs. Colgate – May 10
Pick: Penn State wins
Senior goalie Jack Fracyon anchors a calm, confident Nittany Lions squad that rolls past Colgate. This one never feels in doubt. PSU’s experienced core knows what’s at stake — and they play like it.
Princeton (3) vs. Towson – May 10
Pick: Princeton wins (close)
Towson plays their hearts out, but Princeton’s offense is just too much. It’s tight into the fourth, but the Ivy League Tigers finish strong and advance. Towson’s physical defense keeps it respectable, but not enough to close the gap.
Duke (7) vs. Georgetown – May 10,
Pick: Georgetown wins
This one’s a grinder. The Hoyas force Duke into a defensive slugfest and steal a close one late. It’s not pretty — but it’s gritty, and it’s enough. Georgetown shows their toughness and earns the right to keep dancing.
Cornell (1) vs. Siena – May 11
Pick: Cornell wins
Even with Siena’s magic, Cornell is a different animal. Elite offensively, rock-solid in the middle of the field, and dangerous in transition — the Big Red remind everyone why they’re the 1-seed.
Ohio State (4) vs. Notre Dame – May 11
Pick: Notre Dame wins
This line says it all: Notre Dame is a -1.5 favorite despite being unseeded. Ohio State might be the most popular public bet of the weekend, but that’s exactly why we fade them. Notre Dame takes it in regulation. The Irish have turned the corner, and they make a run.
Maryland (2) vs. Air Force – May 11
Pick: Maryland wins
Air Force battles, but Maryland is just too complete. A balanced offense, bruising defense, and tournament pedigree — this is what May looks like in College Park. The Terps cruise.
Syracuse (6) vs. Harvard – May 11
Pick: Syracuse wins a classic
Spallina. Big moments. High drama. Harvard brings the heat and makes this one a thriller, but the Orange have the poise and playmakers to pull it out late. This might be the game of the round.
