MR.BIGGS COLLEGE FOOTBALL THURSDAY

Akron might not be good at hitting the books or even going to class! They do have some new and improved defensive players and some weapons on offense

TAKE AKRON+5.5

Good luck Biggs.  

I hope you’re right!! I just posted this in the Akron TT thread. Sort of fits here too.

The university is not a far drive for me. Here is what I know and I’ll play both sides. 

Quarterback Play (Ben Finley): He’s one of the most talented QBs in the MAC and has experience from NC State and Cal. With 2,600+ yards and a 16–9 TD/INT ratio last year, he showed he can move the ball despite a shaky supporting cast. That’s the foundation for believing Akron can push into the 20s.

Supporting Cast Upgrades: The RB room lost Simmons, but Akron brought in transfers (Jordan Gant, Chris Gee) who should provide serviceable depth. At WR/TE, Alex Adams and Tim Grear Jr. bring upside, and TE Jake Newell is a steady chain-mover. That’s enough weapons for Finley to work with.

Offensive Line Outlook: Losing tackle Jarvin James hurts, but Akron added pieces up front. If they’re at least “competent,” Finley has a chance to keep drives alive instead of being smothered.

Wyoming Defensive Issues: Wyoming is rebooting their defense with only three returning starters, lost their top six tacklers, and were one of the worst run defenses in FBS last year (192 YPG allowed). Their sack production was nearly as bad as Akron’s. That’s a soft landing spot for Akron’s offense.

Put it together: A capable QB + transfers + a leaky Wyoming defense = a very realistic path to 22 points.

Concerns / Counterpoints

Akron still only averaged 20.4 PPG last year, bottom of the MAC. That’s not far off from 22, but it means even a good day is usually in that low 20s range.

Their kicker situation is unsettled, and special teams were a mess last year. That could take points off the board if they can’t cash in drives.

Finley may be talented, but consistency has been the problem, one good drive followed by two empty ones won’t cut it.

I get the confidence in Finley, he’s definitely one of the better arms in the MAC and has the pedigree to elevate Akron. The thing is, Akron averaged 20 a game last year and still has to prove they can finish drives, especially with an unproven kicker and shaky special teams. Against Wyoming’s inexperienced defense, 22 is doable, but it’s still right on the edge of their ceiling unless Finley plays clean and Adams/Newell help him stretch the field.

just my two cents. I hope you’re right though! Go Zips! (I prefer their basketball team as I’m a season ticket holder)

@biggs33