The University of Northern Iowa has released an 11-game football schedule for the 2006 season that includes six home contests. The Panthers will play eight of their games in the state. They open August 31st with a night game in renovated Drake Stadium and will also visit Iowa State. Coach Mark Farley says it’s an advantage to play within the state and he says it’s a very strong schedule.
U-N-I will host four Gateway Conference games, including an October seventh homecoming game against Missouri State. The Bears are led by former Panther coach Terry Allen. Farley says the scheduling is key if they’re to make the playoffs and a run for the national championship.
The Panther’s will also host South Dakota State in non-conference play and Farley believes the schedule is tough enough to help their post season chances. He says the only division two program is North Dakota State. The Panthers also have home games against Western Kentucky, Western Illinois and Illinois State.