Vanderbilt opened the 2012 season by knocking off fifth-ranked Duke on Sunday. Senior goalkeeper Natalie Wills made seven saves behind a strong Vanderbilt defense.

• Polls: IWLCA | Inside Lacrosse

Defending champion Northwestern will begin the 2012 season in first place. The Wildcats return three All-Americans as they look for their seventh championship in eight years.

• Polls: IWLCA | Inside Lacrosse

Shannon Smith scored four goals including the game winner to give Northwestern its sixth lacrosse title in seven years. The Wildcats prevented Maryland from winning back-to-back championships.

• Northwestern 8, Maryland 7 | Box Score | Interactive Bracket

Shannon Smith hit the game-winning goal as Northwestern knocked off  top-seeded Maryland.  Watch exclusive analysis of the Wildcats' national championship win.

• Interactive Bracket