By Stephen Mason
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In a shift in offensive strategy, Tennessee relied solely on junior setter and two-time All-American Caroline Kerr in Thursday night’s win over Wofford, abandoning its early-season two-setter system. Kerr recorded 49 assists in the four-set victory as the Lady Vols bounced back from a weekend loss in Nashville to No. 15 Purdue.
After beginning the season with a 6-2 rotation that split setting duties between Kerr and freshman Izzy Mogridge, head coach Eve Rackham Watt opted for a 5-1 rotation Thursday, giving Kerr full control of the offense as Tennessee prepares for three matches in 24 hours.
“We’ve got three matches in two days, and we don’t want anyone playing full time,” Rackham Watt said. “We’re going to try to rest some people if we can and show some different looks out there.”
The new approach paid off. After dropping the opening set, Tennessee rallied to win three straight behind Kerr’s steady setting.
She distributed the ball efficiently, with Paityn Chapman and Starr Williams each finishing with 13 kills. With that, Chapman reached a career milestone with her 250th kill.
While the 5-1 system proved effective, Rackham Watt believes the 6-2 remains a possible option moving forward.
“I still think the 6-2 is an option for us,” she said. “Obviously, Caroline is a phenomenal setter, and she’s run a 5-1 during her career. She’s played great in that system, and we’re going to do what’s best for our team, but also use our depth when we can.”
Kerr credited her teammates for her successful night and is prepared to play in either system if it helps her team.
“Whatever the team needs of me, I am ready to do for the team,” said Kerr.
As Tennessee continues its nonconference schedule, opposing teams may find it difficult to prepare for a Lady Vols offense capable of running both systems.
“I see us using multiple systems throughout the year,” Rackham Watt said.
That offensive flexibility could prove valuable as Tennessee faces a tough schedule – The Lady Vols face 11 NCAA Tournament teams and four conference champions this season, all while competing in an SEC that appears especially competitive.
Being able to alternate between the 6-2 and 5-1 rotations could give Tennessee an edge —and keep their opponents guessing.