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What a difference a week makes for the Akron Zips. Last Saturday saw the Zips on the road against Wisconsin drop a 44-point loss on the record book. Today was the opposite of that as the Zips used all their resources to hammer the Marshall Thundering Herd 65-38 in Huntington.
It looked like Akron (2-1) was in for another unpleasant Saturday, as Marshall (1-1) rushed out to a 21-7 first quarter lead on the strength of QB Chase Litton and his three TD passes. Akron would answer and answer strongly, running off 34 unanswered for a 41-21 halftime lead, keyed by a blocked punt and a fumble return for a touchdown each. Akron’s strength this year was it’s defense and it definitely lived up to the hype Saturday.
Offensively, Thomas Woodson led the Zips through the air with 379 yards passing and 4 TDs, coupled with Manny Morgan’s 130 yards on the ground. JoJo Natson had another banner day receiving, grabbing seven catches for 134 yards and a TD. The balance on the offensive side of the football for Akron, should it continue, coupled with a defense capable of playing shutdown football for long stretches of time and forcing turnovers makes Akron a very dangerous squad. Very dangerous. Throw in special teams touchdowns or turnovers for scores, and Akron approaches a level of MACtion that makes them not only hard to beat, but also must see tv.
Akron is back in action next Saturday against Appalachian State at home in Infocision Stadium at 3:30PM. If the Zips cruise through their non-conference slate at 3-1 with a win next Saturday, they have to be considered the frontrunner for the MAC East crown. Something I believe I called in the summer. Not to toot my own horn or anything,but... TOOT TOOT.