One more observation, I believe a new wrinkle to our offense this year (and one that's used heavily by most elite programs)-- the Middle Blocker slide for the kill on one of the two sides. I've seen both Adunleke and Kostelecky execute it. We're also using the middle blocker on fakes much more often. Nice addition. Now if we can only get the total offense in better and more consistent sync.

Backline defense continues to be the strength of this year's squad, perhaps most noticeable in our improved ability to handle opponents' quality service game. Graham, McCardell, Maruska and our two Freshmen, Mansfield and Harris, really get the job done.