The Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State University football team opens its 2014 season Saturday, Aug. 30, hosting Mid-American Conference East Division rival Ohio University at 6 p.m. inside Dix Stadium. The Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State Golden Flashes won their final two games of the 2013 season, while the Bobcats earned a spot in the Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Bowl.
Throughout the season, the Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State football players will have the number 54 on one side of their helmets to honor Jason Bitsko, following their teammate’s unexpected death last week.
The game will be followed by the largest fireworks display in the history of Portage County presented by AMETEK.
The tailgating contest begins at 4 p.m. with prizes for the best burger, but tailgating is open all day. Parking is free before 3 p.m. After 3 p.m., there will be a charge for parking. Happy hour inside the stadium runs from 4:30-5:30 p.m., with dollar drinks and hot dogs.
The Family Fun Zone will feature an inflatable obstacle course, a climbing rock wall, games, face painting and photo opportunities of kids wearing Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State football equipment from 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Just prior to kickoff, the Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State Aviation Flight Team will perform a flyover, and parachuters will present the game ball at midfield.
Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State President Beverly Warren will conduct the coin toss. Between the first and second quarter, the Mid-American Conference will present Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State with the Jacoby Award for excellence in women’s athletics.
For more information about Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State Athletics, visit .