HOME VS. IOWA STATE: SEPTEMBER 16TH (HOME OPENER)
Now that the big match with USC is over with, Iowa State is probably the toughest opponent on Marquette’s schedule. The Cyclones were picked by Big 12 coaches to finish third in a loaded conference, and for good reason. Iowa State finished 19-11 last year against one of the toughest schedules in the country; a schedule that included six matches against Final Four teams Kansas, Texas and reigning national champion Nebraska.
Marquette defeated Iowa State in straight sets last year for what was arguably the most impressive win of the season. Poor hitting held the Cyclones back in that game; they committed 28 errors and posted a hitting percentage of only .077. Now that the Cyclones know what Marquette can do, don’t expect a repeat of last year’s blowout.
HOME VS. CREIGHTON: OCTOBER 22ND
Creighton has been a biannual hurdle that Marquette cannot seem to clear. The Blue Jays have beaten the Golden Eagles in five straight matches en route to back-to-back BIG EAST titles. The most recent defeat came in the semifinals of last year’s BIG EAST tournament, which went to five sets before Creighton ultimately prevailed. These two teams will play in Omaha on September 23, but the BIG EAST race will probably be a lot clearer by the time this match comes around, making the Milwaukee match slightly more important.