The Lions are going against Pitt after a weekend split with the Wildcats. Although it suffered its first Big Ten loss, Penn State was satisfied with how it battled against the ranked opponent and looks to maintain momentum.
Pittsburgh (16-27, 2-9 Big East) plays in its own challenging conference. The Panthers play in the same league as No. 18 DePaul, a team the Lions dropped a 3-2 decision to earlier this season.
"We need to play any midweek games we can get," Penn State coach Robin Petrini said. "We just need to keep playing, so they're important."
Midweek games are important because of their weight during regional play. If the Lions win their out-of-conference games, their overall record will give them an edge come playoff season, sophomore Danielle Kinley said.
Besides the extra competition, the team enjoys having a small tune-up for the more important conference games on weekends. With yet another road trip this weekend to Iowa and Illinois, Penn State will look to keep its mindset focused as conference play lures on the horizon again.
"Not to say that midweek games aren't going to be good games, but usually, we don't play as many high-caliber teams in midweek games," Kinley said. "It's nice to have a little breakup because every Big Ten game is going to be intense and a dog fight."
Statistically, Pittsburgh doesn't fall in the same category as other Penn State opponents. With only three hitters batting over .250, the Panthers have been struggling on offense.
The stats may favor the Lions, but whether the opponent favors the small ball or the home run, the Lions are attacking each team based on its strengths and weaknesses.
"We can play against anybody," Kinley said.
"It doesn't really matter, and we make adjustments to whoever we're playing."
Penn State's Ashley Griffith slides safely into second base earlier this season.
