The Penn State softball team's current winning streak has apparently not gone to the head of coach Robin Petrini.

"You know, that stuff is for you guys to follow," Petrini said of her team's 11-game winning streak. "I'm just interested that we continue to pitch well, that our defense plays well and that we take advantage of opportunities at the plate."

After finishing their non-conference slate, the Nittany Lions will finally be tested by Big Ten rivals this weekend. Penn State (23-8) will play at Purdue at 4 p.m. today and at noon tomorrow before traveling to Indiana (7-19) for a doubleheader that starts at 10:30 a.m. Sunday.

After starting the season with three straight losses, all against nationally ranked teams, the Lions have been on a roll, winning three non-conference tournament titles.

Penn State's offensive improvement is a major reason for the team's success during the streak. The Lions are averaging more than seven runs per game during the unbeaten streak, compared to less than three per game during their 12-8 start.

"We're feeling very strong as a team," junior infielder Kayce Zielinski said. "Our bats are on fire right now."

This offensive outburst bodes well for Penn State against an Indiana team with a 4.30 ERA. Petrini, whose batting orders fluctuate frequently, seems to be comfortable with her current lineup, which features Ashley Esparza, one of the team's best power hitters, in the leadoff spot.

"Ashley batting leadoff has worked out for us so far this year," Petrini said. "That lineup will probably go for a little bit, but my lineups are never stable."

While Penn State has picked up the pace at the plate, the pitching has remained as strong as ever.

The current win streak has featured dominating performances by Penn State aces Esparza and Jackie Hill. Hill was named Big Ten pitcher of the week on March 17, and Esparza received the honor last week. Hill (4th) and Esparza (5th) both rank in the Big Ten's top-5 pitchers in terms of ERA.

Petrini said she is confident in her team's pitching and defense and is pleased with the recent play of the offense.

"Going into Purdue and Indiana this weekend the kids are ready," Petrini said. "It'll be a matter of who hits who's pitching first -- that's kinda what it boils down to."