The Gophers volleyball team regained its No. 10 ranking Monday in the latest poll from the American Volleyball Coaches Association.

In the Big Ten conference openers this weekend, Minnesota beat then-No. 20 Illinois in straight sets and unranked Northwestern in four sets.

Minnesota made the top-10 two weeks ago but dropped to No. 12 last week. Tenth is the highest ranking Minnesota has had yet this season.

Upcoming opponent Penn State claimed the No. 1 spot, jumping from fourth place a week ago. The Nitanny Lions have a 12-1 record so far this year. Oregon and USC round out the top-three selections.

While Penn State will travel to the Sports Pavilion on Saturday, No. 22 Ohio State will be the Gophers' first conference opponent at home Friday.