Akron has won four straight games over Kent State, and five of the last six, but the Zips are struggling this year. It may be tough to continue the streak when they play Kent State at Arkon this week. The Zips of Akron are 0-5 and lead ESPN's Bottom 10 poll. The Zips lost to the No. 2 team in that poll last week by 12. Kent State is 2-3 but two of those losses were to teams in the top 10.
Akron averages a respectable 261 yards passing, but only 50 yards rushing, which is last in the nation. The Zips also average 1.8 yards per run, which is also last. The Zips average 16.6 points per game and are giving up an average of 38.
Kent State can score but has trouble stopping others. The Golden Flashes average 27.8 points and is giving up 35.2. Kent State is averaging 188 yards passing, which is 111th nationally, and 158 rushing.
Both teams are giving up 450 or more yards per game. Akron is giving up 278 yards per game on the ground.
Akron is led by Kato Nelson, who has passed for 1065 yards, eight touchdowns, and three interceptions. The Zips leading rusher has 88 yards. The longest run from scrimmage has been 16 yards and the Zips have just two rushing touchdowns.
Dustin Crum leads Kent State with 725 yards and five touchdowns. Woody Barrett also plays, and has 205 yards and three touchdowns. The Golden Flashes have not been intercepted this season. Jo-El Shaw has 300 yards rushing.
