The number 3 team in the nation got swept tonight. Some of yall need to chill expecting every game this early in the year to be domination.Aceswimmer09 said:
Was being facetious...but these losses arent healthy losses. We will see where SMU and TCU end the year but truly both of those matches should have been 3 set sweeps if we're being honest but for the lack of basic skill...serving passing setting. Honestly we have got to get a new setter and rotate more athletic players at the libero.
** Game Thread: #8 Texas A&M @ #15 TCU **
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Last: 6 days ago by Canyon99
Whats most concerning to me is how raw this team is for such an older group. A lot of the top teams right now have a lot of new pieces I expected to be ahead of teams that are newer in roster
Faustus said:Gap said:
We started out this season like a desperate mid major looking for a pay day with our first 24 days on the road without a home match.
Finally at home for a match next week.
4 of Texas' first 5 were away from home (including at Rice like A&M's matches at Rice/Central Arkansas at Tudor).
Nothing desperate mid-major about it.
For the 4 A&M matches in Houston, Fort Worth, and Dallas I bet A&M had more fans there than the opponent. It certainly looked like it against ranked foes TCU and SMU.
The ACC/SEC challenge dictated the SMU match location. As far as Rice and Central Arkansas in Houston that seems more like a gift to local former students rather than desperate mid major tactics.
Texas will have played 3 home matches before we play our first. These things are not like each other.
While all of the above items are interesting or unique, the problem is they were all put together into one.
A 24 day road trip to open the season is just not a good idea.
We also have a week off before our next game should have scheduled one this Sunday. I dont think having those two away games in our state was the reason we lost. In fact we should have been ready it was the two hardest non conference games we have!
You could tell our team was tired yesterday. Back to back days I don't like when the other team had 4 days of rest. They should have tried to split them up at least one day. I think we take TCU easily if we were not tired. Logan looked nothing like her normal self and I think it was fatigue. We easily win that match if Logan brings her normal game.
Gap said:Faustus said:Gap said:
We started out this season like a desperate mid major looking for a pay day with our first 24 days on the road without a home match.
Finally at home for a match next week.
4 of Texas' first 5 were away from home (including at Rice like A&M's matches at Rice/Central Arkansas at Tudor).
Nothing desperate mid-major about it.
For the 4 A&M matches in Houston, Fort Worth, and Dallas I bet A&M had more fans there than the opponent. It certainly looked like it against ranked foes TCU and SMU.
The ACC/SEC challenge dictated the SMU match location. As far as Rice and Central Arkansas in Houston that seems more like a gift to local former students rather than desperate mid major tactics.
Texas will have played 3 home matches before we play our first. These things are not like each other.
While all of the above items are interesting or unique, the problem is they were all put together into one.
A 24 day road trip to open the season is just not a good idea.
It is what we chose to play a tough schedule to begin the season. This is the first time for a couple of things for TAMU VB
never in my years have we not had a home match excluding the tourney before conference play and we have the SEC tourney to end the season as well.
We played four teams that will end up being top 25 in my opinion
And while I don't think we should have any issue at the Aggie home tourney we barely survived beating New Hampshire last year but a lucky challenge call that went out way with roughly the same team as last season other than Applegate and Stowers.
Our ceiling is high but our floor I thought would be much higher by this time in the season.
We couldn't get anyone to come play us at home that was top level this season so we had to go on the road to begin the season. It will be a good thing for us in the long run.
What I am more curious about is looking sharper on our side of the net and get the depth some much needed playing time next weekend
We will bounce back. All that matters is getting 3 more wins at home, then bouncing back and starting conference play with a win over a good Mizzou team.
Conference play begins in 13 days
Was too busy and then tired to watch the game last night. A lot less interest when I know we lost but there are a lot of curiosities for me to watch it later.
Looking at the box score and thinking back to other games (not the SMU one, that was too much of an outlier), why do a lot of our numbers look so good and frequently much better than the opponent but the game was much closer than you would think?
Looking at the box score and thinking back to other games (not the SMU one, that was too much of an outlier), why do a lot of our numbers look so good and frequently much better than the opponent but the game was much closer than you would think?
- Waak always have a high number of assists. It feels like we have to earn most of our points with kills but we also make a lot more mistakes.
- Our top three hitters had more kills than all of TCU's hitters except their top hitter. They somewhat shutdown Lednicky but Hellmuth had a career night with Stowers right behind.
- We are not holding leads well. Just reading through the comments, we had multiple semi-large leads and lost them all eventually.
- Our stats were better or at least very close except we were aced a lot more. Similar service errors in the TCU game but over a 5-set game, not really that much. I'm going to assume several of them were at bad times.
LB12Diamond said:
You could tell our team was tired yesterday. Back to back days I don't like when the other team had 4 days of rest. They should have tried to split them up at least one day. I think we take TCU easily if we were not tired. Logan looked nothing like her normal self and I think it was fatigue.
I believe this also to a degree. We looked slow and sloppy defensively with poor ball control and bad mental decisions. Tired legs and brains can certainly account for that.
Also, I think the short turnaround hurt the coaching matchup. TCU looked very prepared for us and seemed to pick our defense apart our with serves and tips. That was certainly not the case on our end.
All that said, I was hoping a veteran team would be able to handle the challenge a little better and come out of these 2 games with at least one win. Not the end of the world by any means, but do think it shows that the team isn't quite where we thought they were .
Long season and they will bounce back…but still a missed opportunity to really make a statement which I think is where most of the collective fan frustration is coming from.
We didn't win the serve pass game. Which doesn't correlate in a box score. Plus even though set one was close in the end we had really good stats same with the third set we only had one hitting error.
The two sets TCU had their most hitting errors they lost
The three we had the most hitting errors we lost.
The sets we lost 6 9 and 4 in the 15 point game. Three aces compared to their 8 with them having less errors. Also they went to Coleman when they needed to and we couldn't stop her
The two sets TCU had their most hitting errors they lost
The three we had the most hitting errors we lost.
The sets we lost 6 9 and 4 in the 15 point game. Three aces compared to their 8 with them having less errors. Also they went to Coleman when they needed to and we couldn't stop her
I know Ive mentioned this a few times, but our floor would be much higher if our passing was better. Underwood genuinely looks lost and looks regressed compared to last year. This team will go as far as our defense will take us. I honestly want to see Applegate get a shot at libero. She's been reading things well and played very very solid. Not saying she's the answer, but Underwood hasn't exactly earned the jersey 7 matches into the season
I am confident that getting back-to-back smacked by SMU and then outplayed by TCU will make a lasting, constructive impression on the players. It's early in the season, when lessons are most beneficially learned.
This really looks like the same team from the last 2 years...passing goes away for long stretches which means we can't consistently set to our strengths, as good as our block is at times it disappears for long stretches for some reason, really untimely service errors, and really inconsistent defensive positioning.
The trend is we drop a few games in a row because we get down on ourselves and it takes some sort of spark to lift us back up. It looks like a lack of pure alpha leadership to me...we have an experienced squad on paper, but I think it's a quiet, follow my example, type leadership. It doesn't look like we have that fiery emotional leader that takes control and picks people up.
Playing on our home court after almost a month on the road should provide a big lift. To his credit, Jamie always finds a way to dig out of these low points and peak toward end of season.
The trend is we drop a few games in a row because we get down on ourselves and it takes some sort of spark to lift us back up. It looks like a lack of pure alpha leadership to me...we have an experienced squad on paper, but I think it's a quiet, follow my example, type leadership. It doesn't look like we have that fiery emotional leader that takes control and picks people up.
Playing on our home court after almost a month on the road should provide a big lift. To his credit, Jamie always finds a way to dig out of these low points and peak toward end of season.
I like Applegate in the MB spot honestly. Underwood does a great job of setting OOS from LB. Passing needs to improve but I don't think taking the captain of the team off the floor is what we need right now.
But that said if things don't turn around in the serve pass part of the game then changes will have to be made.
Humphrey was doing really well passing early on but non existent in these two losses.
But that said if things don't turn around in the serve pass part of the game then changes will have to be made.
Humphrey was doing really well passing early on but non existent in these two losses.
I completely agree with that. She's been a voice for so long. It's hard watching her play so well last year and start this year so poorly. Sometimes losing the jersey, even for a few matches, can light a fire. We need her long term for the season.
Athletes go through alot too, so I have no idea if there are outside factors in place here. I just hope she figures it out. We need her if we're going to be a legit contender
Athletes go through alot too, so I have no idea if there are outside factors in place here. I just hope she figures it out. We need her if we're going to be a legit contender
They could also still keep her in the L jersey and she can play MB. They could do a rotation where the switch it up to get her and Stowers on the back row, maybe Stowers plays LB. Stowers defense keeps us in matches. Would be curious how she could handle LB
Wicked Good Ag said:
I like Applegate in the MB spot honestly. Underwood does a great job of setting OOS from LB. Passing needs to improve but I don't think taking the captain of the team off the floor is what we need right now.
But that said if things don't turn around in the serve pass part of the game then changes will have to be made.
Humphrey was doing really well passing early on but non existent in these two losses.
I like Applegate and Underwood in their respective spots as well. That should be the right combination but I would like to see Morrison make a mid-game decision on backrow personnel if it's not working out.
I've often wondered (not just about this team) why coaches love hitters in the backrow but the team actually doesn't do backrow attacks much at all. Certainly a DS sitting on the sideline is a much better option? Maybe it's to save on subs which I don't track?
I'm surprised we haven't seen Stowers swing from back there though I really like her aggressive defense.
I'm also surprised we haven't seen more of the back row attack. And more Hellmuth back row. She played very very well back there at the end of the season and thought she was going to play 6 rotations for us this year.
Ag4eva95 said:
They could also still keep her in the L jersey and she can play MB. They could do a rotation where the switch it up to get her and Stowers on the back row, maybe Stowers plays LB. Stowers defense keeps us in matches. Would be curious how she could handle LB
That makes no sense. Takes away your back row attack option from Stowers and also make someone be the OOS setter who hasn't been trained.
And Underwood is a much better defender than Stowers. Passing is her issue lately.
As for the back row attack it hasn't been a huge part of the game under Morrison. But we have also used Logan in RB quite a bit in spurts but not as much unless we seemingly have to as the option. Just a different back row attack angle
Haha no it does make sense. We aren't using her in attack, so that doesn't impact this decision. Stowers plays very solid defense and moves better than most of our team. There would be very few balls falling. Hell, she covers underwood from MB as it is. Underwood is struggling to make routine digs, Stowers would solve that if Applegate stays MB
I agree with pretty much everything you said. And I absolutely favor playing a tough schedule - especially with this veteran team. The only point I would make in difference is that playing a tough schedule is not a mutually exclusive concept from basically not playing a home match for nearly the first month of the season.
Ag4eva95 said:
Haha no it does make sense. We aren't using her in attack, so that doesn't impact this decision. Stowers plays very solid defense and moves better than most of our team. There would be very few balls falling. Hell, she covers underwood from MB as it is. Underwood is struggling to make routine digs, Stowers would solve that if Applegate stays MB
I agree that Stowers is very good on defense and I also have seen her dig balls that perhaps Underwood could have dug.
This is leading me to think maybe there is a chemistry issue in certain rotations? Not talking about personalities but just different defensive play styles maybe causing slight hesitations on who is covering what.
Gap said:
I agree with pretty much everything you said. And I absolutely favor playing a tough schedule - especially with this veteran team. The only point I would make in difference is that playing a tough schedule is not a mutually exclusive concept from basically not playing a home match for nearly the first month of the season.
Not only that, we are playing at the opponents' HOME courts. We aren't in invitationals where other teams are also on the road.
Ag4eva95 said:
Haha no it does make sense. We aren't using her in attack, so that doesn't impact this decision. Stowers plays very solid defense and moves better than most of our team. There would be very few balls falling. Hell, she covers underwood from MB as it is. Underwood is struggling to make routine digs, Stowers would solve that if Applegate stays MB
so you are putting the girl with concussions closer to the plays in a position she has likely not played in years because you think after 5 games she is a better defender than Underwood??
cmon man you know the game better than that i would think
I am all for getting more back row swings after watching the TCU girl pick us apart from behind the 10 ft line but this is just flat out idiotic
Two completely different positions and now you have her set OOS ? Has she ever done that? all because of something you perceive as an issue after the last two games ?
It's interesting watching this back row hitter debate. It appears not many of you watch much professional volleyball.
Also interesting you want players hitting from the back row who had multiple hitting errors from the front the past two games.
And I still see complaining from the lack of sub against SMU even though the player they wanted subbed out played very solid in the 3rd set. still trying to figure out why that is being ignored
Also interesting you want players hitting from the back row who had multiple hitting errors from the front the past two games.
And I still see complaining from the lack of sub against SMU even though the player they wanted subbed out played very solid in the 3rd set. still trying to figure out why that is being ignored
TCU did a ton of short serves. Many where the front line had to get it. And we did not handle it very well. I do not remember another team doing this to us all year. hopefully we are more prepared for this one in future matches.
Dude it's a creative opinion. I've coached collegiately and club. When your libero is struggling as much as Underwood has, you gotta figure out how to light a fire. Stowers is clearly the most athletically gifted and has some of the best ball control on the team. If we're not considering the idea of moving Applegate out of MB, who else can actually cover LB consistently? Athletically, Stowers can.
Again, I'm not saying this is the ideal way to go. But we're not exactly seeing Morrison be creative with our lineups and trying things out. He isn't afraid to put Musgrove out there for blocking(which is great). Isn't afraid to get Humphrey a shot. When Ava is struggling as much as she has, we haven't even tried to put Thomas, the second libero, in. Give her a shot. She averaged almost 4 digs a set at her last school. She has the experience. The drop off doesn't seem that huge between Underwood vs Applegate/Thomas
Again, I'm not saying this is the ideal way to go. But we're not exactly seeing Morrison be creative with our lineups and trying things out. He isn't afraid to put Musgrove out there for blocking(which is great). Isn't afraid to get Humphrey a shot. When Ava is struggling as much as she has, we haven't even tried to put Thomas, the second libero, in. Give her a shot. She averaged almost 4 digs a set at her last school. She has the experience. The drop off doesn't seem that huge between Underwood vs Applegate/Thomas
Speaking of liberos, I'm really excited for Gabi Rodriguez and Jenna Thedford! Both are leading their teams, Rodriguez has McKinney North looking to repeat and Thedford has Dawson ranked 3rd in 6A behind Sophee Perterson's Bryon Nelson who has her team ranked first! Also opposite hitter Brooke Lacewell has her team number 1 in 4A
Ag4eva95 said:
Dude it's a creative opinion. I've coached collegiately and club. When your libero is struggling as much as Underwood has, you gotta figure out how to light a fire. Stowers is clearly the most athletically gifted and has some of the best ball control on the team. If we're not considering the idea of moving Applegate out of MB, who else can actually cover LB consistently? Athletically, Stowers can.
Again, I'm not saying this is the ideal way to go. But we're not exactly seeing Morrison be creative with our lineups and trying things out. He isn't afraid to put Musgrove out there for blocking(which is great). Isn't afraid to get Humphrey a shot. When Ava is struggling as much as she has, we haven't even tried to put Thomas, the second libero, in. Give her a shot. She averaged almost 4 digs a set at her last school. She has the experience. The drop off doesn't seem that huge between Underwood vs Applegate/Thomas
Here is the thing
she has struggled some but we are into minimal about of data for the season
to drop her from the lineup and move people to different positions doesnt make sense after one bad weekend
Stowers against Minnesota was targeted more than any other player in serve receive...Applegate passed better and Humpreys was the best of the lot with Hellmuth not passing even at a 2.
Playing LB at this level is not something you can just do without any practice at it
If you want to hide her in a rotation maybe or even put Thomas in with the second libero jersey but no way they put Stowers at LB. It will effect her offensive game on the front row with the stuff she would have to do in the back row
And what does it do to your team mentally when you take the captain off the floor ?? and then who play back row for Hellmuth ?
All the bickering and concerns aside, I'm just thrilled and happy there's so many people tuning into Aggie Volleyball and so many that are engaging in discussion here on this site!! Makes me happy to see how the sport is growing in this town and I for sure hope they can get it going to their abilities!!
There's a reason so many are tuned in and a lot of it is because of the guy at the helm! He's a great leader and great coach, I trust him to get things right (and if you know me you know I'm vocal about other coaches lol) I trust Jamie and his staff!
There's a reason so many are tuned in and a lot of it is because of the guy at the helm! He's a great leader and great coach, I trust him to get things right (and if you know me you know I'm vocal about other coaches lol) I trust Jamie and his staff!
bickering is fine as we all have our own opinions on how to fix a problem. It's a spectator sport. It's our right to second guess coaching decisions!
When things turn sour, every player do share part of the blame but us spectators key in on things from our own perspectives. For me, my daughter was a setter. I tend to blame the passing if her game is off. Family of hitters probably blame the setter. Liberos? I'm not sure who their parents blame. LOL
I just don't like it when a coach doesn't make any changes. Morrison made some but just not at libero which I thought could have been effective or at least worth a try.
I once observed my kids freshmen team go up 24-13 or something. But then they proceeded to lose and lose by 24-20, we were screaming do something...ANYTHING. 24-23, parents in full on panic but still not substitutions. We lose 24-26.
When things turn sour, every player do share part of the blame but us spectators key in on things from our own perspectives. For me, my daughter was a setter. I tend to blame the passing if her game is off. Family of hitters probably blame the setter. Liberos? I'm not sure who their parents blame. LOL
I just don't like it when a coach doesn't make any changes. Morrison made some but just not at libero which I thought could have been effective or at least worth a try.
I once observed my kids freshmen team go up 24-13 or something. But then they proceeded to lose and lose by 24-20, we were screaming do something...ANYTHING. 24-23, parents in full on panic but still not substitutions. We lose 24-26.
Liberos can blame the block or the playing surface
Plenty of blame to go around as we are all out of sorts. All I can say is it is nice to get back home and regroup.
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