The past three matches for Mizzou volleyball produced a 2-1 record against the likes of Florida, Auburn and Ole Miss. The latter two contests resulted in victories for the Tigers. After dropping out of the AVCA Week 7 rankings, there is more work to be done to regain respect.
Here are the key takeaways from Mizzou’s past three matches as conference play is in full effect.
Caylen Alexander Coming Into Form
Before this three-game stretch, Alexander’s season-best kill total was 18. The senior outside hitter reached more than 18 kills
in two of the three following matches and averaged five kills per set against the Rebels.
It started with 24 kills in the Tigers’ 3-1 loss to Florida. She also had a .333 hitting percentage in the match and did her part on the defensive end with 15 digs and two blocks.
Alexander followed that outing with less impressive all-around performances, but led Mizzou to two much-needed wins. She combined for 34 kills against Auburn and Ole Miss, hitting over .200 in both matches.
“I’ve challenged myself to find new shots that are going to work,” Alexander said. “Not just trying to swing down, seeing that they actually work. So, you know, it feels good to be hitting well.”
Her production recently has helped her jump into the top 10 in the SEC for kills per set. Head coach Dawn Sullivan knew how big a get Alexander was in the portal, and the program is starting to reap the benefits.
Consistency Needed From Secondary Attackers
While Alexander is having a breakout, role players on the attack need some development for this team to be legit. Opposite of Alexander, Janet deMarrais has yet to find the consistency she’s been looking for.
Through these past three matches, her kill total of 29 is no slouch, but her efficiency leaves more to be desired. The senior hit worse than .200 in each match, which made a big difference in the Florida match because of how close each set was.
The middles have been consistent all year long, but the Tigers have lacked a true threat on the right side or just a rotational hitter in general. Maca Lobaglio is starting to get more reps, but as a freshman, she has had her fair share of growing pains.
Improving on the Attack
Specifically, Mizzou has limited its attacking errors. Despite losing against the Gators, the Tigers had 10 fewer attacking errors.
They carried that hitting success into their next two matches, totaling fewer attacking errors than both Auburn and Ole Miss. Mizzou had 22 attacking errors against Auburn, its highest total in the stretch, but forced 29 attacking errors on the visiting Tigers.
Tyrah Ariail’s consistency has contributed to better efficiency. She only has seven attacking errors in the past three matches. The key to continued progression for Mizzou lies on the veterans playing to their potential and minimizing errors.
The Tigers will remain home for their next match, welcoming the LSU Tigers to Hearnes Center on Oct. 19. The conference affair will be broadcast on SEC Network at 2pm.
