Since last December, following an early exit from the NCAA tournament, there have been questions about the state of Penn State's women's volleyball program.

Tonight, a lot of those questions will be answered.

The No. 9 Nittany Lions (9-0) will collide with No. 3 Florida (7-1) at the American Classic in Washington, D.C., with the winner facing the winner of American vs. Yale for the tournament's championship.

Facing the Gators is a daunting prospect. They are defending SEC champions and reached the final eight of last year's NCAA tournament. They are deep and talented at almost every position.

"This is the best team we'll face all year and probably the best team anyone in our conference will face," Penn State women's volleyball coach Russ Rose said.

"They are extremely physical and talented."

There was a time when those kinds of words were used to describe the Lions. They had the reputation of always being physically superior and intimidating.

That's a characteristic Rose and company are trying to regain and tonight's matchup with the Gators would be a good place to start.

"I remember when we were in a similar situation to Florida," Rose said.

"When you know you have a team that can contend for the national championship all you want to do is fast forward to the Final Four, you just know you can beat any team in the country."

The Gators proved that last Saturday with a three-game dismantling of No. 1 Stanford.

It was a message sent to the rest of the collegiate volleyball world with vicious intent.

Leading the way for the Gators tonight will be two brilliant outside hitters in Jacque Robinson and Aury Cruz.

Florida's roster also features the intimidating middle blocker Nicole McCray.

Cruz was absent for the Gators' one loss this season, which was to Southern Cal two weeks ago.

The consensus top player at Florida was absent because of commitments to the Puerto Rican national team at the world championships.

With Robinson playing opposite Cruz, their combined ability can be unnerving for any opponent.

When asked how he plans to combat Robinson's incredible abilities and skills, Rose simply stated, "I don't know if we can."

But despite the hype surrounding the Gators, don't bet on Penn State being overwhelmed by the pressure.

The Lions still hold a 5-1 series lead and have some formidable firepower on their own side.

"All you have to do is look at their record," Gator women's volleyball coach Mary Wise said.

"They have two outstanding middle hitters and the consummate Libero in Hilary Sexton. Mishka Levy is a force on the outside. I think they are the favorites for the Big Ten this year."

While Rose may not paint such a glowing picture of his squad, he knows that if their hearts are in it, Penn State is up to the task.

"I'm looking forward to it," Rose
said.

"I think it's an opportunity for our players to demonstrate their capable of playing at the level Florida has demonstrated. I just hope we can play with good energy and enthusiasm."