In a dominating display of power and precision, the Miami University RedHawks football team blanked the Akron Zips 19-0 in a Mid-American Conference showdown on a chilly Wednesday night in Oxford, Ohio. This resounding victory showcased the RedHawks' prowess on both sides of the ball and their determination to secure a spot in the MAC Championship Game.
Miami's Rashad Amos emerged as the game's standout performer, rushing for 118 yards and scoring two touchdowns, making a compelling case for being one of the MAC's premier running backs. Amos set the tone early in the game, leading the RedHawks on a 75-yard drive, culminating in a one-yard touchdown run. This initial drive showcased Miami's commitment to the run game, with eight of the nine plays involving rushing plays, including Amos's explosive 40-yard dash that placed them within striking distance of the end zone.
While Amos was undoubtedly the offensive star, Miami's defense was equally impressive. The RedHawks' defense held Akron to a mere 92 yards before halftime, and four first-half sacks further showcased their dominance. Matt Salopek, the Miami University linebacker, recorded a pivotal interception in a standout moment for the defense, marking his first career pickoff.
Graham Nicholson, the junior placekicker, extended Miami's lead with a 35-yard field goal, adding to the scoreboard's pressure and pushing the RedHawks ahead 10-0 at halftime.
However, the RedHawks were not content with just a 10-point lead. Salopek's defensive heroics continued, as he made crucial fourth-down tackles on consecutive Akron possessions, handing the ball back to the RedHawks' offense. Miami seized the opportunity, embarking on a five-play, 68-yard scoring drive, culminating in another Rashad Amos touchdown. A roughing-the-passer penalty gifted Miami a fresh set of downs, and Amos capitalized with a breathtaking 30-yard sprint down the left sideline. Although the extra point was blocked, Miami's lead extended to 16-0, with only 1:46 remaining in the third quarter.
Miami further solidified their dominance with a nine-play, 40-yard drive, leading to a 32-yard field goal by Nicholson. His flawless kicking performance this season has made him 19-for-19 on field goals.
The RedHawks' defense continued to shine, accounting for six sacks in total, with Ty Wise leading the way with a career-high three sacks. Their efforts limited Akron to a mere 36 rushing yards, the lowest opponent total since a 2020 win over Akron.
Yahsyn McKee provided the final defensive exclamation point with an interception in the end zone, thwarting Akron's late fourth-quarter drive and ensuring the RedHawks' second shutout of the season. This marked the first time since 1998 that Miami had shut out multiple opponents in the same year.
With the 19-0 victory, Miami University improved to an impressive 8-2 overall and maintained their top spot in the MAC East with a 5-1 league record. In contrast, Akron's struggles continued as they fell to 2-8 on the season and 1-5 in MAC play.
Looking ahead, Miami will face Buffalo next Wednesday, November 15, at 7 p.m. at Yager Stadium. A victory in this crucial matchup can secure the RedHawks a spot in the MAC Championship Game, adding another chapter to their impressive season and offering a glimmer of hope for their championship aspirations.
