Merrimack sets first FCS schedule

(STATS) - Merrimack announced an 11-game schedule on Thursday for its first season on the FCS level this year.

The Warriors, moving up from NCAA Division II, will play five times at home. They are joining the Northeast Conference, but won't play a full league schedule until at least the 2020 season.

Merrimack will open the season on Aug. 31 by hosting Virginia-Lynchburg - one of eight first-time opponents on the schedule. Also visiting Duane Stadium are Mayville State (Sept. 21), Bryant (Oct. 5), Presbyterian (Oct. 26) and Franklin Pierce (Nov. 16).

"The 2019 schedule will certainly be the most difficult schedule in program history," coach Dan Curran said, "and I know I speak on behalf of the entire program when I say that we are looking forward to the challenge."

The Warriors return 17 starters from a 5-5 squad which won four of its final five games last year.

---

2019 Merrimack Schedule

Aug. 31, Virginia-Lynchburg

Sept. 7, at Central Connecticut State

Sept. 14, at Saint Francis

Sept. 21, Mayville State

Sept. 28, at Lehigh

Oct. 5, Bryant

Oct. 19, at Delaware State

Oct. 26, Presbyterian

Nov. 2, at Rhode Island

Nov. 16, Franklin Pierce

Nov. 23, at Long Island