huskers1217
Well-Known Member
118. Akron Zips
Reason why they're here: Last year was a terrible year for the Zips, they were one game removed from a winless season, and worst of all that was on a mostly senior team. Also this team lost to Gardner-Webb who finished 4-8 playing in the FCS. None of their Runningbacks have had more than 8 carries in their careers. They lost their top two recieving threats and none of the others really showed any promise, The offensive line returns 3 starters from a line that gave up 33 sacks last season. Akron's defense gave up 6.3 yards per play and made very few big plays. Plus their best defensive player graduated. Zips have a lot of work to do. Their mascot does them no favors either, it's a Kangaroo! It's bad enough their team doesn't intimidate anyone but their mascot doesn't either!
Reason why they could be higher: Apparently that kangaroo thing in their logo thinks their capable of something, maybe he knows something we don't or he's just a biased homer. They got some Juco transfers that could compete with Jr. QB Patrick Nicely who was ineffective last year. They ended the season strong, losing close games to decent teams then winning their last game, but problem was most of those players were seniors. Another positive is that they get to play a greatly depleted Ohio State team to start the year, so instead of losing by 50 or 60 they get to lose by 30 or 40.
Predictions
@ Ohio State L
Temple L
@ Cincinnati L
VMI W
@ Eastern Michigan L
FIU L
Ohio L
Central Michigan L
@ Miami Ohio L
Kent State L
@ Buffalo L
@ Western Michigan L
1-11
This is brutal of a schedule, Ohio State despite all the issues and lost starters is still the 2nd toughest team they deal with. They also have the powerhouse of the Bobcats of Ohio to deal with. They get the benefit of playing a FCS team, not only that they play a completely horrible FCS team. VMI went 3-8 last year including a loss to Akron's nemisis Gardner Webb! Hopefully Akron can beat them. If this team makes good strides they might be able to beat Central Michigan.
fify.