- Matchup: Akron Zips vs Kent State Golden Flashes
- Event Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Venue: Zoeller Field at Dix Stadium, Kent, OH
- Broadcast: ESPN+
- Betting Odds: Golden Flashes favored by 3.5 points
- Total Points Over/Under: 45.5
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The Kent State Golden Flashes (2-5) are set to challenge the Akron Zips (1-6) at Zoeller Field at Dix Stadium on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Kent State begins this match as 3.5-point favorites, with the total points set at 45.5.
The Akron Zips are entering this game with a struggling record of 1-6 this season. Their most recent outing against the Miami RedHawks resulted in a defeat, finishing 34-14. Defensively, the Zips allowed 324 yards on 35 rushing attempts, averaging 9.3 yards per carry. They also permitted 8 completions on 16 attempts, totaling 65 passing yards for a completion rate of 50.0%. Offensively, the Zips executed 70 plays, resulting in 315 yards. In the running game, they attempted 32 carries for 81 yards, averaging 2.5 yards per rush.
This season, the Zips have accumulated a total of 2,377 yards. In scoring, they have secured 11 touchdown passes and 6 rushing touchdowns, while giving up the ball 13 times. Akron has successfully achieved 136 first downs but has been hindered by 44 penalties amounting to 393 yards. They are averaging 132.7 rushing yards per game, placing them 107th in the FBS. Overall, the Zips are scoring an average of 18.9 points per game.
In terms of defense, the Zips rank 124th in the nation, allowing 32.4 points per game. Opposing teams are gaining an average of 6.0 yards per carry and 200.4 rushing yards per game against them, with a total of 1,403 rushing yards surrendered over 7 games. Through the air, the Zips have given up 1,521 passing yards, ranking 101st nationally. They concede 217.3 yards per game passing, with a completion percentage against of 58.1%. On average, they allow 417.7 total yards per game, placing them 121st. Defense has also been an issue, with 14 passing touchdowns and 11 rushing touchdowns allowed.
The Kent State Golden Flashes hold a record of 2-5 this season. In their last match, they encountered a setback against the USF Bulls, losing 29-2. Kent State managed only 1.8 yards per rushing attempt, totaling 63 yards on 35 carries. Over the course of the game, the Golden Flashes produced 228 yards while executing 68 plays (3.4 yards per play). Their passing defense struggled, allowing an 81.5% completion rate and 193 yards on 22 out of 27 attempts. On the ground, they gave up 32 attempts for 78 yards (2.4 yards per carry).
Currently, the Kent State Golden Flashes average an anemic 273.1 yards per game, ranking them 137th in Division 1. Their offense has committed 65 penalties for 487 yards, making them the top team in penalties this season. Kent State averages 102.6 rushing yards per game, totaling 718 rushing yards on the year. They have thrown 7 interceptions and lost 4 fumbles while recording 107 first downs. Unfortunately, the Golden Flashes rank 138th nationally in scoring, averaging just 12.0 points per game. Passing statistics show they have accumulated 1,194 yards through the air, averaging 170.6 yards per game, which ranks 124th in Division 1.
Defensively, Kent State has given up 990 rushing yards (141.4 yards per game) along with 14 rushing touchdowns this season. They have also allowed 12 passing touchdowns and 222.3 passing yards per game, placing them 89th in Division 1. Collectively, they have surrendered 224 points this season, with the defense recording 2 fumble recoveries and 4 interceptions. The Golden Flashes’ defense has participated in 424 plays overall, ranking 72nd in college football. They are allowing 32.0 points per game, landing them 120th in Division 1.
Who will emerge victorious in this Zips vs. Golden Flashes matchup against the spread?
Prediction: Bet on the Golden Flashes -3.5
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