Lincoln Memorial men's volleyball is set to face No. 13 Ohio State on Friday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. at the Covelli Center. The match was originally part of a two-match series, but the second game has been canceled due to anticipated weather. LMU enters the game with a strong 3–1 record, showcasing impressive offensive and defensive stats. The Railsplitters are hitting .344 as a team while holding opponents to just .115. Historically, LMU has not won against Ohio State, who leads the series 4–0.

By the Numbers
  • LMU hitting percentage: .344; opponent hitting percentage: .115
  • Johan Negron leads LMU with 38 kills; Axel van Baars hitting .565 with 30 kills
  • LMU averages 13.1 kills per set and 2.0 blocks per set
Yes, But

While LMU's strong start is promising, their historical struggles against Ohio State may pose a challenge. The Buckeyes, though also ranked, have experience on their side, having won all previous matchups.

State of Play
  • LMU enters with momentum, having a balanced attack and solid defense.
  • Ohio State is looking to rebound after a recent loss to Long Beach State following a win against George Mason.
What's Next

If LMU secures a victory against Ohio State, it could mark a turning point for the program and boost confidence heading into future matches. Conversely, a loss may underscore areas needing improvement.

Bottom Line

This matchup is crucial for LMU; a win against a ranked opponent would not only end a losing streak against Ohio State but also solidify their strong season start. It's a test of character and capability for the Railsplitters.