Rutgers Volleyball is set to embark on a crucial late-season road trip that could significantly impact its standing in the Big Ten Conference. The Scarlet Knights will face two tough opponents this weekend, starting with a match against Ohio State in Columbus, Ohio, on **October 31**, followed by a contest against Michigan State in East Lansing, Michigan, on **November 1**. This back-to-back series marks the conclusion of a challenging road stretch for the team.
The Scarlet Knights enter this weekend after a demanding series of matches, including a **3-0 defeat** to No. 18 Penn State and a five-set loss to Iowa. Despite the setbacks, the team demonstrated resilience. Against Penn State, Rutgers nearly captured the opening set, leading **21-18** before the Nittany Lions rallied to secure the win. In their match against Iowa, Rutgers won the first two sets, but ultimately fell short, losing the last three sets with scores of **25-16**, **27-25**, and **15-9**.
Rutgers excels in serving, currently leading the Big Ten with **153 service aces**, averaging **2.01 per set**. A standout player, **Lexi Visintine**, is a key contributor to this success, ranking first in the conference with **36 aces** and placing **30th nationally**. Her performance has been pivotal, averaging **0.47 aces per set**.
Another standout, **Aspen Maxwell**, continues to be a dynamic force on the court. Already recognized as a two-time all-tournament selection and the Sacred Heart Invite MVP, she ranks prominently among the Big Ten’s offensive leaders. Maxwell stands third in total points, fifth in total kills, sixth in points per set, and eighth in kills per set.
Setter **Lily Bolen** has also made significant contributions, averaging **10.00 assists per set**, which places her fifth among Big Ten setters and **36th nationally**. Bolen has recorded six double-doubles this season, including notable performances against Penn State and Iowa, and recently achieved the milestone of **1,000 career assists**.
On the defensive end, **Zora Hardison** has been a dominant presence at the net, leading the team with **80 total blocks**, including **23 solo stops**. She has now surpassed Kristina Grkovic’s previous rally-era record of **21 solo blocks** in a season. Additionally, libero **Alleigh Dutton** has cemented her role as a defensive anchor, leading the team in digs in nearly every match and averaging **3.29 digs per set**.
Rutgers’ match against Ohio State at the Covelli Center on **October 31** will also serve as the final match of the Big Ten Discover Challenge. Following this, the Scarlet Knights will conclude their weekend at Michigan State’s Breslin Center. Both matches will be streamed live on B1G+, as Rutgers aims to build momentum and make a strong push in the Big Ten standings.
With these critical matches ahead, the Scarlet Knights are poised to showcase their skills and determination on the court.
