The Akron Zips (0-2) are preparing for their home opener against Colgate (0-2) of the Patriot League. The Zips have had a tough start to the season, narrowly winning their last two games against Morgan State and St. Francis [PA]. This week’s game is crucial for Akron as they look to bounce back from two demoralizing losses in the Big Ten.
The game will take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 6 p.m. Eastern time at Summa Field in InfoCision Stadium. It will be exclusively available on ESPN+ with commentary provided by Anthony Lima and Ryan Cavanaugh. For radio coverage, fans can tune in to WHLO-AM 640 with Dave Skoczen and Joe Dunn providing the call.
Interestingly, Colgate holds the winning record in the all-time series between these two teams, with a shutout victory back in 1940.
Moving on to Colgate, they finished last season with a 6-5 record in the Patriot League after starting off with three consecutive losses. Stan Dakosky enters his fourth season as head coach of the Raiders with a record of 14-21.
Colgate’s offense returns ten starters from last season and employs multiple quarterbacks throughout games. Michael Brescia takes most of the snaps but Zach Osborne and Jake Sterney also see playing time. Marco Maldonado leads their rushing attack while Treyvohn Saunders and Brady Hutchinson are key targets in the passing game.
Defensively, Colgate has allowed an average of 338 yards per game this season but has shown some strength against opponents’ passing attacks. Linebacker Kole Kozlowski and defensive lineman Andrew Taddeo are players to watch on defense.
As for Akron, they have faced tough competition so far this season against Ohio State and Rutgers. Their main struggle has been finishing drives that reach the red zone due to penalties or playcalling issues.
Quarterbacks Ben Finley and Tahj Bullock have split time under center for Akron while Jordon Simmons has emerged as a key running back option.
Defensively, Akron has faced challenges but has shown resilience despite allowing an average of nearly 460 total yards per game. Linebacker Bryan McCoy and defensive lineman CJ Nunnally IV are standout performers on defense for Akron.
this week’s matchup will provide insight into both teams’ progress early in the season as they look to secure their first win.
