I do not like two non-D1 games, but otherwise this is fine given that the program is still rebuilding. Lots of D1 home games is good and DePaul and Ohio State are good road games (honestly Valpo should have a good chance to beat DePaul).
Another interesting aspect of this non-conference schedule: no games that require flying. It seems there is definitely serious intent to manage coats.
I'll have a breakdown of this schedule and what not, but not until next week. Too many other season preview stories to write before volleyball and football gets going this weekend. Still have three FB and at least one VB story. Basketball is the furthest thing on my mind.
If Valpo is a "good chance" to beat DePaul, it would not be a good sign. That should be a win. In fact, without really researching all of that schedule, I think close to unbeaten should be the expectation until Ohio State.
I put the schedule into MVCFans. Lets just say the sentiment surrounding Valpo will most likely never change. They are particularly upset about 2 Non D1 games.
I agree that Valpo needs to bag non D1 games. Also, DePaul will obviously be at least a littler better this year.
Considering one of the 2 nonD1 games is an off the books exhibition match. I don't see why they are upset about 2 nond1 games. The season kicks off in Xenia. Anything before that is purely for fun.
@rezynezy I’m afraid you’re gonna have to look at that schedule again Rez. There are 2 non-D1 games in regular season - Concordia Ann Arbor and Calumet St. Joe. Yes there is an exhibition but if you wanna total it up, that’s 3 non-D1 teams who will be visiting the ARC.
On another note opening day is confirmed to include a Liberty-Valpo women’s game as well. Should be a fun doubleheader.
@sp37 I'll have to take it up wi th their website then. They claim to be D1. Thanks for the heads up.
Both Calumet and Concordia Ann Arbor are NAIA. Concordia is listed as NCCAA Div I not NCAA Div I. Maybe that's where the confusion is.
The MVCFANS forum calls Valpo out on the two non-DI games. Not earning much respect for that.
I am not a fan of the non-D1 games - especially more than one. But others on the MVC board need to look and see that Valpo is not the only team scheduling one or two non-D1 games. UNI, for instance, has played a non-D1 game each season since 2017 and in some seasons played two.
