Kent State Golden Flashes (1-7) vs. Akron Zips (1-7)
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Akron Zips 11/1/23 – As the NCAAF calendar reaches its 10th week, two teams with mirrored records, Kent State Golden Flashes and Akron Zips, are set to lock horns. Both sporting a 1-7 win-loss record, the matchup on Wednesday promises more than what the statistics suggest. Going beyond the numbers, this duel carries sentiments of regional pride and the quest for redemption. Best NCAAF matchup analysis and tips suggest that this is one game you wouldn’t want to miss.
Kent State Golden Flashes, despite their disappointing record, have some sparks in their lineup. Gavin Garcia, the running back, has carried the ball 96 times, rushing for 374 yards with a notable 42-yard long run, contributing two touchdowns. Chrishon McCray, their wide receiver, flaunts 35 receptions, totaling 449 receiving yards, with a commendable average of 12.8 yards per reception, and two touchdowns.
Turning the pages to Akron Zips, they too have showcased some individual brilliance amidst their struggles. The impressive running back Lorenzo Lingard has managed 78 rushing attempts, accumulating 388 yards, averaging 5 yards per rush attempt, and a standout 71-yard rush, ensuring two touchdowns for his team. On the receiving front, Daniel George, with 31 receptions, has chalked up 298 receiving yards and has been a consistent part of the Zips’ offense, though still searching for his first touchdown reception this season.
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Akron Zips 11/1/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Summa Field at InfoCision Stadium |
| TV: | ESPU |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Michael Alaimo QB vs. DJ Irons QB
Michael Alaimo, the quarterback for the Golden Flashes, has had a challenging season with 79 completions out of 144 passing attempts, amassing 932 passing yards. With a completion rate of 54.9% and a longest pass of 43 yards, he’s thrown for 2 touchdowns but has been intercepted 4 times. A significant concern is the 27 sacks he’s endured, indicating issues with the offensive line or decision-making under pressure. His style of play suggests he’s more of a pocket passer, and how he manages the Zips’ defense will be key to Kent State’s success.
On the other side, DJ Irons for the Akron Zips paints a slightly brighter picture with an admirable 66.2% completion rate. Making 88 completions from 133 attempts, he’s thrown for 722 yards, achieving a notable 77-yard long pass. With 3 touchdown passes and 3 interceptions, his performance metrics suggest a balanced approach. Irons has faced 14 sacks, which might be a point of vulnerability. He demonstrates a good blend of decision-making and quick release, making him a worthy opponent for Alaimo.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Akron Zips -173, Total Odds: 40.5
The odds are slightly in favor of Akron Zips, indicated by the moneyline of -173 and a point spread of -3.5. The total odds of 40.5, with an under at -105, suggests that this could be a relatively low-scoring game, reflecting both teams’ offensive challenges this season.
Kent State Betting Trends
Recent trends for Kent State aren’t encouraging for their supporters. They have failed to cover the spread in their last 5 games and have been on the losing end in those matchups as well. Moreover, the total has gone OVER in 6 of their last 9 games, indicating a potentially leaky defense. Interestingly, they’ve had a decent track record against Akron, being 6-1 ATS and 4-1 SU in their last 7 and 5 games respectively.
Akron Zips Betting Trends
The Akron Zips, similarly, aren’t fairing much better in their recent form. With a 2-5 record ATS in their last 7 games and being winless in their last 6 games, they are desperately seeking a turnaround. A notable trend is the total going UNDER in 5 of their last 6 games against Kent State, suggesting a history of defensive duels.
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Akron Zips 11/1/23 Betting Picks
Both teams, though carrying the same record, have their strengths and weaknesses. While Kent State has had a better record against Akron in recent years, current form, especially in defense, raises concerns. Akron, playing at home and slightly favored in the odds, might have the slight edge.
When making picks, considering the recent UNDER trend in matchups between these two teams and their struggling offenses, it may be wise to lean towards the UNDER 40.5. For those looking to pick a side, Akron’s home advantage and slightly better quarterback metrics make them an appealing choice. Multi-expert top picks would likely be divided, but the Zips might just have the edge in this one.
Free Pick and Prediction: Akron Zips 21, Kent State Golden Flashes 17.