Hermetically sealed on Funk & Wagnalls' back porch ...

Because I live for this ... my predictions for the men's hockey quarterfinals in Turin ...

1. Switzerland-Sweden: The Swiss have been the feel-good story of the Olympics, but the run ends here. While the Swiss have two fine NHL goaltenders in David Aebischer and Martin Gerber, the Swedes have more weapons on offense and defense and they have been here before ... SWEDEN 4, SWITZERLAND 1

2. Czech Republic-Slovakia: This is a juicy game with the countries meeting for the first time since the 1993 split of Czechoslovakia. The Czechs are banged up with Jagr still feeling the after-effects of being rammed into the boards by a Finnish defenseman and Hasek out with a leg injury. Two words describe the Slovaks -- upstart and dynamic. If not for Switzerland's surprising run, Slovakia would be the story ... SLOVAKIA 5, CZECH REPUBLIC 3

3. Russia-Canada: Both teams have combined for 14 gold medals since 1924, but one of them will be disappointed at the end of the day. Given the lackluster way the Canadians have been playing, I think they need to concentrate more on Vancouver in 2010. Perhaps by then people from Prince George to Corner Brook will have forgiven them. Canada's goaltending will keep it close, but Russia has way too many players who can put the puck in the net ... RUSSIA 3, CANADA 1

4. Finland-United States: For years, and for reasons I am still trying to figure out, I have rooted for the Finns. This is the year I think they can put it together. They have the offense with Selanne and Lehtinen. They have allowed just two goals in five games. The United States -- like many of the athletes there -- have looked disinterested. The Americans also will have to win three in a row if they want to leave with gold. That's just not happening ... FINLAND 5, UNITED STATES 1