American Volleyball Coaches Association blogger Deb Stadick's 5 top matches this week includes this one (taken from Volley Talk) :
No. 24 North Carolina @ Ohio
Friday, Sept. 6
Hot off a win over No. 8 Oregon, the Bobcats have a lot of momentum going into week two of competition. Another match against a ranked opponent in North Carolina will test their consistency and ability to maintain that high level of play.
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| Ohio Bobcats Athletics |
Meredith Ashy (L) has been playing phenomenal defense for the Bobcats throughout preseason, keeping Abby Gilleland (left) in system and allowing her to spread out the offense. Karin Bull (MH), Katie Norton (OH) and Kelly Lamberti (OH) all have the potential to post big offensive numbers.
North Carolina’s 6-2 offense and back row prowess has allowed them to swing well from every position. Six players--Jovana Bjelica (OH), Kayla Bellinger(OH/OPP), Paige Neuenfeldt(MH), Leigh Andrew (OH),Victoria McPherson (MH) and Lauren Adkins (OH) have tallied over 20 kills this season, which is a testament to their truly well-rounded offense.
Both programs play a very similar game. They swing for a high percentage (Ohio: .332, NC: .295), spread the offense, put up a decent block and play tough defense. For me, the question in this match is which team can play their game better. Who can stick to the game plan, maintain their level of play and consistently execute on the things they are good at.
While Ohio is on the rise and has some serious momentum, North Carolina is more accustomed to playing at this level.
My Pick: North Carolina in 4.
This is the 7:00 game on Friday. We play UC at noon and another ranked team, Dayton, Saturday at 3:00.
Go OHIO
Last Edited: 9/3/2013 7:35:46 PM by stub