2025 Week 12 Wagon Wheel Preview: Kent State Golden Flashes at Akron Zips
Improved Akron and Kent State teams face off for the Wagon Wheel trophy on Tuesday night in MACtion.
"So, rock me mama like a wagon wheel. Rock me mama any way you feel. Rock me mama like the wind and the rain. Rock me mama like a southbound train. mama rock me." — Darius Rucker, 2013 hit “Wagon Wheel”
The Northeast Ohio rivals first met in 1923. The Wagon Wheel trophy was created for their 1946 matchup after World War II. They have played 67 times, with Akron leading the series by 9 games.
Team Improvements
This year’s matchup is notable as both teams have significantly improved from recent seasons. Akron enters with a 4-6 record, seeking its first 5-win season since 2017. Kent State travels with a 3-6 record, already surpassing the total wins of its previous two seasons combined.
Season Outlook
- Akron aims to avoid a losing season by securing a fifth win.
- Kent State looks to claim the Wagon Wheel in Akron, celebrating a turnaround from past struggles.
Kent State’s Progress
The Golden Flashes (3-6, 2-3 MAC) are now able to close out games, which was not the case in 2023 and 2024. They hold a 2-3 record in conference play and had leads with under two minutes remaining in two of their three MAC losses.
Author’s summary: Both Kent State and Akron have made notable progress this season, setting the stage for an intense rivalry game with the historic Wagon Wheel trophy on the line.