The star of the game was attackman John Eremus, who finished with five goals. For his efforts, Eremus was named the ECAC offensive player of the week for the first time.

In 2003, the Lions made an appearance in the NCAA tournament, and Thiel said he has the talent to get back there if everyone contributes equally.

"We can beat anyone on our schedule and lose to anyone [as well], our problem is consistency," Thiel said.

It was no truer statement when the Lions played their first road game of the season three days later at No. 4 Duke. The Blue Devils held the Lions to two second-half goals en route to a 12-2 victory. The two-goal output by Penn State is its lowest since a 17-2 loss at the hands of Army back in 1983.

"Duke physically pressured us. They inched away from us, and we backed down. They're very good," Thiel said.

On a day when there were few bright spots for the Lions, their leading scorer and attackman Nate Whitaker scored a goal, extending his individual scoring streak to 31 games.

This Saturday, the Lions will be in action against Stony Brook. Thiel hopes his team will respond after such a lackluster performance.

"The idea is to get to the tournament, but guys have to respond when everyone isn't at their best," he said.