Dustin

Interesting to think about. Wasn't/Isn't the pass defense a susceptible area? But maybe since they knew the opponent was in pass mode, it made it easier to defend. I do think this is the recipe for winning moving forward - offense scores regularly and forces opponents into a one dimensional offense.

I didn't get to watch the game, only saw highlights, so did the defense actually look legit, or was it because of the ineptitude of the opponent? Or maybe a little of both? I do hope, too, that a game where it all comes together might be just what it takes for the lights to come on.

That’s kind of what I was thinking. Score on most possessions and OWN the TOP.

Luepke

Can we stop it?

Anyone paying attention to NDSU and know whether or not Luepke has been playing much?

I’ve been in Tommy’s corner the whole time, but there’s no doubt he’s elevated his game this season over previous. I never really thought his criticisms were warranted, but I must say it’s been so nice this year no one is questioning who the starting quarterback should be.

Just what the doctor ordered.

Final now?

This thread is my game broadcast today as I am out hunting. So frequent updates appreciated. Thanks!

First 2 drives, for sure.

Awesome point.

Who's defense is better NDSU or SDSU? Is it safe to say that SDSU has the better offense?

Might be able to sneak up on a team with him since there isn't much footage out there. Only 5 catches on the season. Maybe a coming out party in Fargo???

Practicing outside today in GF would offer a reasonable facsimile.

Hopefully our o-line can open the holes against their d-line.

Yes, truly unbelievable. I love that volleyball at UND is a thing again.

I think you're misinterpreting (or reading more into) what I'm trying to say. In my last paragraph, I'm talking about the future. I'm not talking about replacing Stockman and Ward NOW, I mean after they graduate. As for "why not give the ladies a little more credit", I just gave them LOADS of credit for how much improvement has been made in just one season. And when did I not "appreciate we did get grad transfers who contribute and play well" or "be grateful for current roster's talent level and record"? Not sure how I am coming across, but it must not be the right way. And again, with Carney, I was just commenting on what my wife and I were noticing. Not trying to be negative on her or any other player.

More musings from last night's match: First off, sorry if it seemed I was coming down hard on our libero. I wasn't trying to. Play has improved DRASTICALLY since early in the year. You'd swear it wasn't the same players sometimes. Ball control, communication, blocking, and spiking all big improvements. I felt sorry for Ashlyn Olson. She never was able to get it going, which, if she had, could have been the difference. A powerful lefty (and the threat thereof) is a really good way to just mess with opposing defenses. Even during the golden age of UND volleyball, a lefty hitter on other teams always caused us problems. It's nice to have one on our side now. Of all the players, I trust Elizabeth Norris the most, whether it's setting, hitting, or serving. All-around very versatile player. Our team is young. 3 freshman are regular players. 2 sophomores are regular players. Norris is a junior. As long as we replace Stockman and Ward with equal (or better) hitters, our program will be relevant. I could see using the transfer portal or graduate transfers again to fill specific roles/needs. Amazing job by Tupac and his staff to resurrect the program to this level in just one year.

Those were just my wife’s observations tonight. She’s the volleyball player from back in HS. I wasn’t trying to speak poorly of her. We will need to recruit a libero, however, since she is a senior.

At times, UND was the better team. At times, not. Our back row, overall, needs a boost to get back to our preferred level. A back row attacker would add some variety to our offensive, and the libero could be more aggressive. USD found some success by hitting/serving at our libero, and normally that would be the player you’d want to avoid because she’s so good at digs and bumps. A legit libero would my my #1 recruiting target.

That’s the impression I’m considering away with, too. Either that, USD isn’t as dominant without their starting setter. But I saw a lot of good things, a few bad things, but, honestly, prepared to lose in 3 tonight. Way exceeded by expectations.

Turned the tide in our favor the rest of the way. I can’t believe how many gifts USD gave us by hitting attempts long or wide.

Went toe to toe with them the whole set, but couldn’t pull it off. 2-1 USD after a 25-23 set 3 win.

How’s Taylor Budge on the pxp for those of you watching at home?