Kent State vs. Akron Prediction: MACtion Odds and Picks
Kent State enters as a 6.5-point underdog against Akron on Tuesday night in a key matchup of the Tuesday night “MACtion” series. Akron (4-6) cannot qualify for a bowl game this season because of academic violations but is just one win away from its best record since 2017, when the team finished 7-7 under coach Terry Bowden.
Kent State (3-6) still holds bowl ambitions, but it must win the remainder of its games to reach postseason play. Additionally, the winner will claim the Wagon Wheel Trophy, a prize created in 1946 for this annual rivalry between the two Northeast Ohio universities.
Team Context and Records
- Akron is favored by 6.5 points at home for this game.
- Both teams rank among the weaker programs in FBS but are having better seasons than expected.
- Akron's recent seasonal wins over the past six years: 0, 1, 2, 2, 2, and 4.
- The Zips lost at least 10 games in four of the last five seasons, aside from the shortened 2020 schedule.
“A 4-6 record may not seem noteworthy to most programs, but it is to the Zips, who had every excuse to just bail on 2025 entirely with no prospect of postseason play due to the academic violations.”
The rivalry game has added significance beyond the standings, with pride and the Wagon Wheel Trophy at stake for two teams from Northeast Ohio.
Author's summary: Despite struggles, Akron and Kent State face off for the Wagon Wheel with bowl hopes and program pride driving a competitive Tuesday night MACtion game.