Valparaiso defeats Dayton 8-7 with nervy 2-point conversion
VALPARAISO, Ind. -- Jarrett Morgan and Valparaiso put together a winning drive and a nervy two-point conversion in the final 80 seconds for an 8-7 comeback against Dayton on Saturday, securing a winning record for the first time in 14 seasons.
Valparaiso (6-5, 5-3 Pioneer League) and Dayton (5-6, 4-4) played scoreless football in rainy, windy conditions until the final quarter.
Dayton's Alex Jeske found Adam Trautman for a 30-yard touchdown and a 7-0 lead to begin the period. As time was running out, Valparaiso took possession at the Dayton 39 after a punt. The Crusaders marched to pay dirt after a 28-yard Jimmy Seewald-to-Frank Catrine pass play, setting up Morgan's keeper from the 1.
On the conversion, Morgan took the snap in wildcat formation and threw a jump pass to third string tight end Ryan Clarke for the go-ahead point. The Crusaders' defense then held as Dayton failed to convert on fourth-and-10 with 39 seconds remaining.
Morgan finished with 63 yards rushing, another 21 receiving. He and Clarke are seniors playing their final game.
Game Information
2024 Pioneer Football League Standings
| Team | CONF | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Drake | 5-0 | 6-1 |
| Morehead State | 4-1 | 6-3 |
| St. Thomas-Minnesota | 4-1 | 5-4 |
| Dayton | 3-2 | 5-3 |
| Butler | 3-2 | 7-2 |
| San Diego | 3-2 | 5-3 |
| Davidson | 3-3 | 5-4 |
| Presbyterian | 2-4 | 4-6 |
| Valparaiso | 1-3 | 3-5 |
| Stetson | 0-4 | 2-6 |
| Marist | 0-6 | 0-9 |
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