LSU volleyball began SEC play on the road at Oklahoma and Arkansas, starting 1-1 against fellow conference opponents.
The Tigers’ efforts fell short at OU, but the team rallied to leave Arkansas with an impressive win, evening its conference record.
What is the main takeaway now that the Tigers are playing more aggressive volleyball?
Head coach Tonya Johnson has proved time and time again that her team is capable of winning if its defense is up to par, and it’s improved tremendously since the beginning of the season.
The Tigers had arguably their toughest match yet to begin conference play in Norman against a vigorous OU team. The Sooners owned a 4-0 record at home, and LSU had to fight against the disadvantage.
Although it wasn’t able to produce offensively on its side of the net, LSU’s defense stepped up to the best of its ability to showcase the work that’s been put in.
The Tigers managed to limit the home team to a .155 attack percentage and only 30 kills throughout all three sets.
Outside hitter Jurnee Robinson had seven digs and one block, while Tireh Smith added another block. Setter Takayla Brown contributed with six digs.
Following the loss against the Sooners, LSU knew it needed to bounce back against the Razorbacks to prove this team had what it took to be combative.
The Tigers’ defense was nothing less than dominant all around in Fayetteville, producing a season-high 17 blocks on the night to give Arkansas its first conference loss.
Despite the Razorbacks’ .231 hitting percentage on the night, the LSU defense held down its side of the court.
Jessica Jones led the middle with nine blocks, freshman Sanaa Donaie contributed eight and Smith added on six from the right side.
Outside hitter duo Robinson and Nia Washington both had an astonishing night all around. Robinson finished with four blocks and Washington with three, adding nine digs for the defense as well.
LSU’s back row was sensational as Laurel Cassidy stunned with a season-high 14 digs, and Aly Kirkoff followed behind with 10.
The Tigers’ setting duo didn’t go unnoticed either with Lauren Brooker tallying four blocks and four digs while Brown aided with five digs.
Before conference play, Johnson believed her team still had quite a few things to work on after LSU’s win over in-state opponent Southeastern.
“I think our blocking can stand to get better and should continue to get better,” Johnson said about adjustments heading into conference play. “I think that’s a big part for us in terms of that.”
What did her team go on to do? Exactly that.
If this LSU defense can carry the consistency from these past two matches, it poses a threat to any conference opponent moving forward.
LSU takes on No. 20 Tennessee and No. 23 Florida at home next. Can this team possibly pull off an upset?
One thing is certain: the Tigers definitely have what it takes.
