The IU volleyball team aims to snap a seven-match losing streak with a win at Michigan State at 6 p.m. today.
A preview of the action as the Hoosiers (14-14, 3-11) go for a season sweep of the Spartans (16-10, 4-10):
When they last met
IU defended University Gym when the two squads first met on Sept. 30, winning in four sets by scores of 25-19, 18-25, 25-23 and 25-18.
Where they stand now
The Spartans have collected all their conference victories in East Lansing and are tied with Purdue for eighth in the Big Ten.
The Hoosiers reside alone in the cellar of the conference with a 3-11 mark.
Keys to the match
Four different players recorded service aces for IU in the teams' previous meeting. The Hoosiers need to be solid from the service line to open a sizeable advantage in the match. In addition, defense will be key for IU as Michigan State ranks fifth in the Big Ten in hitting percentage, kills and blocks.
On the Spartans' side of the net, players must play to strengths. Teams have been able to hit effectively against IU lately, and Michigan State's offensive attack can do the same. Receiving serves is also key for the Spartans as the Hoosiers have plenty of ace threats.
