Ohio State Gears Up for a Dominant Start Against Akron
Ohio State fans have every reason to be excited as the Buckeyes prepare to open their 2024 season against Akron, a matchup that isn't expected to draw much attention on the national stage. The Zips, who have struggled under head coach Joe Moorhead with back-to-back 2-10 seasons, are unlikely to pose a serious threat to Ohio State.
A Gentle Start to the Season
Ohio State's early schedule is favorable, with Akron being the first of three Group of Five teams the Buckeyes will face, all of whom finished below .500 in 2023. Following Akron, Ohio State will take on Western Michigan and Marshall. For the Buckeyes, these games will be crucial in fine-tuning their strategies and allowing the team to hit their stride before facing more formidable opponents.
Akron's Struggles
The Zips enter this game as heavy underdogs, with few reasons for optimism. Akron’s offense was among the worst in college football last year, ranking near the bottom in both scoring and total yards. Despite Moorhead's background as an offensive coordinator, Akron's struggles on that side of the ball have persisted. With no returning players who made a significant impact in 2023, the Zips are likely in for a tough day against Ohio State's formidable defense.
A Quarterback Competition in Akron
Like Ohio State, Akron recently concluded its own quarterback competition, naming Ben Finley as the starter. Finley, a transfer from Cal, will face an enormous challenge in his debut as he goes up against one of the nation's top defenses. Finley’s experience includes stints at NC State and Cal, where he had limited success, and his first test in Akron colors will be anything but easy.
Defensive Hope
While Akron's offense remains a work in progress, their defense showed some promise in 2023, ranking 32nd in total defense and 22nd in pass defense. The linebacker corps, led by Antavious Fish and Bryan McCoy, is the strongest unit on the team and will need to perform at its best to slow down Ohio State’s high-powered offense.
The History and Tradition of Akron
For those unfamiliar with the Akron Zips, their nickname has deep roots in the city’s history as a rubber manufacturing hub. The name “Zippers” was inspired by an overshoe made by the B.F. Goodrich Company, a nod to the city’s industrial past. The name was later shortened to “Zips,” and the kangaroo mascot, Zippy, was introduced in 1953, making her one of the few female mascots in college football.
Ohio State's Dominance Over Ohio Schools
Ohio State has a long history of dominance over other Ohio schools, not having lost to an in-state opponent since 1921. As the Buckeyes take the field on Saturday, they will aim to extend their unbeaten streak, which dates back more than a century, to 52-0-1 against Ohio teams.
Looking Ahead
The Buckeyes' season opener is set for 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, with CBS broadcasting the game. Ohio State will look to start the season strong, setting the tone for what they hope will be another successful campaign.
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