Patterson made nine stops in the first period then faced only 11 more shots the rest of the way. He kept the Pioneers scoreless on five power-play chances.

Fifteen players scored points for Minnesota (1-0-0), which outshot the Pioneers 47-20. Sacred Heart (0-1-0) goalie Steven Legatto made 38 saves.

Kyle Rau scored the only goal of the first period just 56 seconds into the game. Jake Hansen's goal ignited a four-goal outburst early in the second period.

Sophomore Nick Bjugstad and freshman Seth Ambroz scored two goals apiece for Minnesota. Blake Thompson, Mark Alt, Zach Budish and Nate Schmidt each assisted on two goals.

"It was nice to see some freshmen get their first goals," Minnesota coach Don Lucia said. "(Ambroz) is going to make his living in the crease area."

Erik Haula, Sam Warning and Tom Serratore had Golden Gopher goals.

The Gophers kept the heat on all game, putting 19 shots on goal and scoring four times in the second period.

It was the first meeting between the teams, who play again on Saturday.