By Liz Torres, Globe Correspondent

Top-ranked Xaverian plants itself atop the Globe boys' volleyball rankings after taking a bite out of the Western Alliance to earn a four-game undefeated streak. The Hawks let up a single set this season and should steamroll through its schedule, though a possible speed bump is conference rival No. 9 St. John's Prep.

The three-time state champion Eagles (4-1) are going to have to redefine themselves this year after their earliest postseason exit in several years, a North Sectional quarterfinal loss to Andover. The Eagles were upset by BC High, 3-2, April 5, which will need to be a one-time mishap in order for the Eagles to see another postseason. Junior outside hitter Brian Keogh will be a player to watch with 46 kills totaled in the first three matches of the season and a game-high 23 kills in a 3-1 win against Chelmsford.

No. 2 Lincoln Sudbury returns as state champion and a usual threat come tournament time. The Warriors are 3-0 despite a close 3-2 win over fifth-ranked Newton North, when John Newton's nine kills and Bill Shimkus' four aces and 17 service points proved the difference.

No. 3 Lawrence is a usual contender. Senior middle blocker Joel Rodriguez will be a potential threat for the Lancers, dropping 32 kills in the first three matches, including in the 3-1 season-opening win against No. 8 Newton South.

The Newton rivals return with Newton North posting two-set wins against Lincoln-Sudbury and Newton South hanging in there with a 4-1 record (it's only loss being to Lawrence). No. 4 North Quincy passed the test with two big wins, 3-1 over Quincy and 3-0 over Barnstable.

No. 6 Needham and No. 7 Cambridge will be teams to watch as No. 10 Haverhill, last year’s state title runner-up, settle at the bottom of the Top 10 with only a single game played this season.

See the Globe boys volleyball rankings.