Marquette Volleyball's AVCA Poll Ranking Takes a Hit
The world of sports is full of ups and downs, and sometimes, a single misstep can cause a slip in the rankings. But is it fair to drop a team's ranking after a close win? That's the question on the minds of Marquette Golden Eagles fans this week.
Andrew Fleck, the seasoned sports writer and manager of the Marquette-focused website Anonymous Eagle, brings us this intriguing story. Fleck, who has covered Marquette sports since 2011, notes that the Golden Eagles' recent wins against Seton Hall and St. John's might have been less than convincing. Both opponents were ranked below 200 in the RPI as of Monday, and Marquette needed four sets to secure victory in each match.
And this is where it gets interesting: Despite Marquette's RPI remaining unchanged, the AVCA poll voters seemed less impressed. The Golden Eagles dropped five points in the poll, landing at 10 points in the brand new top 25 rankings. This puts them in a precarious position, sandwiched between Iowa State and Western Kentucky.
The rankings shift also affects Marquette's schedule. Wisconsin, Marquette's top-ranked opponent this season, dropped from #7 to #9. Creighton maintained its position at #13, while Minnesota took a tumble, falling four spots to #18. Florida, lurking in the Receiving Votes section, gained traction but still has a long way to go to crack the top 25.
Marquette's upcoming matches against Xavier and Butler, both scheduled for this weekend, become even more crucial. The Xavier match is a highlight, as both teams are currently tied for second place in the league. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, adding to the excitement.
So, was the AVCA poll too harsh on Marquette? Do close wins deserve to be penalized? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to follow Anonymous Eagle for more captivating sports insights!
