Valparaiso University's football team has been predicted to finish in a tie for fourth place in the Pioneer Football League's North Division this season in preseason balloting done by the league's head coaches.

Head coach Stacy Adams' squad garnered 32 points and tied Butler in the voting. The Crusaders are coming off of a 5-6 season in 2004 and a 1-3 mark in PFL North play, placing fourth.

Drake and Morehead State were picked to win the North and South Divisions respectively with Dayton and Jacksonville selected to finish runner-up. San Diego and Austin Peay were tabbed third with Butler tying Valpo for fourth on the North side and Davidson picked to finish fourth in the South.

Coaches were not allowed to vote for their own team.

The Crusaders will open up their 2005 season on Saturday, September 3 when the Crusaders travel to Milwaukee, Wis. to battle Wisconsin Lutheran.

2005 Pioneer Football League Preseason Poll
North
Team Points
1. Drake (5) - 13
2. Dayton (2) - 15
3. San Diego (2) - 18
t-4. Valparaiso - 32
t-4. Butler - 32
South
Team - Points
1. Morehead State (5) - 12
2. Jacksonville (3) - 14
3. Austin Peay (1) - 20
4. Davidson - 28
(First place votes in parentheses)