The Akron Zips, who have been playing in the FBS since 1987 and have only played in the 2005 Motor City Bowl, have finally won their first bowl game against the Utah State Aggies where they rallied to beat the Aggies 23-21 in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl. Playing in his final college game ever, Aggies quarterback Chuckie Keeton led a surge that gave Utah State hope until the very final play of the game. Akron’s defense found a way to prevail, and the Zips finally notched that coveted first postseason victory.
What went right for Akron
The game belonged to Akron's defense, because they were able to disrupt Utah State’s front-line throughout the entire game and secured victory even though the Zips’ offense averaged only 4 yards per play. Akron recorded five sacks and 10 tackles. Linebacker Jatavis Brown finished the game with 8 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. Also, kicker Robert Stein made all three of his field goals in the game. The Zips have won eight games for the first time in school history. This bowl victory is a huge deal for the school, especially since they have hit tough times in their recent past. They went a combined 3-33 from 2010-2012. They went 1-11 in each season. It’s safe to say that head coach Terry Bowden has come to the right place.
What went wrong for Akron
The Zips could not get rolling on offense in Bosie. The Zips possessed the football for over 34 minutes despite averaging only 2.4 yards per rush. That’s a combination that rarely mixes, especially when the passing game isn’t going great either. Quarterback Thomas Woodson was only 14 for 29 for 168 yards with 1 touchdown. He was battling a shoulder in the 2nd half, but he was the leading rusher with 16 carries for 47 yards.
What went right for Utah State
The Utah State two-quarterback offense seemed to work very well for them. Kent Myers went 14 for 20 for a total 123 yards, but he threw 2 interceptions. Keeton went 14 for 25 for 109 yards, but he also threw 1 interception and 1 touchdown. Devante Mays had a breakout game where he had 12 carries for a total of 124 yards, with his longest being for 61 yards.
What went wrong for Utah State
The Aggies finish a season that started with fans thinking they would end with a losing record. There was much hope that Utah State could deliver a special year coming off last season’s 10-4 record, especially with Keeton returning for his fifth and final season. They also had three turnovers on the game, all on which Akron capitalized on. The Aggies were very competitive in losses at Utah Utes and Washington Huskies before blowing out Boise State at home.
Final thoughts
For Akron, this is like winning a national championship for the school. They have been horrific for most of the years since their magical 2005 season. And for Utah State, they have now lost four of their last five games, ending the season on a very sour note.