Valparaiso University, the defending Pioneer Football League Champions, will play five home games during its 11-game 2004 Schedule. The Crusaders open the season on Aug. 28 at North Dakota State (7 p.m.) and play their home opener on Sept. 11 against Austin Peay at noon. Homecoming will be Oct. 9 when Valpo hosts Dayton at 1:30 p.m. in the PFL North Division opener.

The Crusaders will celebrate Parents' Day Nov. 6 when they entertain Butler (1 p.m.). A rematch of the teams that appeared in last season's PFL Championship Game will occur on Oct. 2 when Valpo travels to play Morehead State (1 p.m. EDT).

The home slate also includes games Sept. 25 against Jacksonville (noon) and Nov. 13 against Aurora (12:30 p.m.).

The remainder of the road schedule includes games Sept. 4 at Wisconsin Lutheran (1 p.m.), Sept. 18 at St. Francis (PA) (1 p.m. EDT.), PFL contests Oct. 16 at San Diego (1:30 p.m. PDT) and Oct. 23 at Drake (1 p.m).

Valpo has an open week Oct. 30. The PFL Championship Game, featuring the North and South Division Champions, will be played Nov. 20 at the site of the South Division Champion.

2004 Valparaiso University Football Schedule

Date Opponent Time
Aug. 28 at North Dakota State 7 p.m.
Sept. 4 at Wisconsin Lutheran 1 p.m.
Sept. 11 Austin Peay noon
Sept. 18 at Saint Francis (Pa.) 1 p.m. EDT
Sept. 25 Jacksonville noon
Oct. 2 at Morehead State 1 p.m. EDT
Oct. 9 Dayton* (Homecoming) 1:30 p.m.
Oct. 16 at San Diego* 1:30 p.m. PDT
Oct. 23 at Drake* 1 p.m.
Oct. 30 Bye
Nov. 6 Butler* (Parents' Day) 1 p.m.
Nov. 13 Aurora 12:30 p.m.
Nov. 20 Pioneer Football League Championship
(at South Division Champion)

All Times Central unless otherwise noted.
Home Games in Bold Played at Brown Field.
* - Indicates Pioneer Football League North Division Game.