Volleyball Set for Exciting Clash Against No. 2 Nebraska Tuesday
Huskers Look to Extend Win Streak Against Illini
Illinois Aims to Upset Top-Ranked Opponent
The Illinois Fighting Illini volleyball team will face their toughest test of the season on Tuesday when they travel to Lincoln, Nebraska, to take on the No. 2 Nebraska Cornhuskers.
The Cornhuskers are one of the most dominant teams in the country, having won three national championships in the past decade. They are currently riding a 14-match win streak and have not lost a set since September 10.
The Illini, meanwhile, are coming off a big win over No. 14 Michigan State on Friday. They are now 12-4 on the season and have won four of their last five matches.
Illinois Hopes to Upset Top-Ranked Opponent
The Illini will need to play their best match of the season if they want to upset Nebraska. They will need to be disciplined on defense and efficient on offense.
Illinois has a talented team led by senior outside hitter Jacqueline Quade and junior middle blocker Ali Bastianelli. Quade is one of the best hitters in the country, and Bastianelli is a force at the net.
If the Illini can get enough production from their other players, they have a chance to pull off the upset.
Huskers Look to Extend Win Streak Against Illini
Nebraska will be looking to extend their win streak to 15 matches on Tuesday. They will be led by senior outside hitter Mikaela Foecke and junior middle blocker Lauren Stivrins.
Foecke is one of the most decorated players in the country, and Stivrins is one of the best blockers in the Big Ten.
The Cornhuskers are also deep and experienced, so they will be a tough challenge for the Illini.
Match Preview
- When: Tuesday, October 16, 2018
- Where: Bob Devaney Sports Center, Lincoln, Nebraska
- TV: BTN2Go
- Radio: Fighting Illini Sports Network
Prediction
Nebraska is a heavy favorite in this match, but the Illini have a chance to pull off the upset if they play their best. I predict a close match, but I think Nebraska will ultimately win in four sets.
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