Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Akron Zips 11/1/23 – In a Mid-American conference showdown, the Kent State Golden Flashes will face the Akron Zips on Wednesday evening. Both teams come into this game with identical 1-7 records, underlining a challenging season for both squads. This matchup offers a chance for redemption and bragging rights in the state of Ohio. For enthusiasts scouting for the latest NCAAF picks, this game promises to be a blend of strategy and rivalry.
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Akron Zips
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET
Location: Summa Field at InfoCision Stadium
TV: ESPU
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Akron Zips 11/1/23 Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Kent State | +135 | +3.5 (-115) | 40.5 over (-116) |
| Akron | -173 | -3.5 (-115) | 40.5 under (-105) |
Kent State Golden Flashes Analysis
Kent State’s offensive success rests heavily on Michael Alaimo and his 932 passing yards. Though his completion rate of 54.9% leaves room for improvement, Alaimo has proven his prowess under center with plays like his 43-yard longest pass. Receivers like Chrishon McCray have proven vital, averaging 12.8 yards per reception to stretch the field with his long passing ability and be game changers; running back Gavin Garcia has provided solid playmaking abilities with averaged 3.9 yards per carry and two touchdowns over his short career.
Kent State’s defensive troubles have been most evident in its failure to protect quarterback Matt Alaimo from being sacked over 27 times this season, showing a marked vulnerability in their offensive line and jeopardizing both their passing game as well as ground game development. Facing Akron who will look for any edge they can find against Kent State, these defensive lapses could prove costly; therefore both defensive and offensive lines must work cohesively and stand up and perform in order for Kent State to have any chance at victory in this matchup!
Akron Zips Analysis
Akron’s offense under DJ Irons‘s direction has shown impressive efficiency, especially in their passing game. Irons’ impressive 66.2% completion rate shows his accuracy with his throws. At 5.4 yards per pass attempt, he’s made safer, shorter throws – evidenced by his highest pass being for 77 yards. Lorenzo Lingard has been an impressive source of consistency on defense. Irons has proven his abilities on both ends of the field, averaging five yards per carry and with runs as long as 71 yards, both as an efficient workhorse and big play threat when necessary. Daniel George has provided reliable targets for Irons in the passing game averaging 9.6 yards per catch.
Akron comes into this matchup boasting some notable defensive trends. While their season overall has not been without challenges, their performances against weak offensive lines like Kent State provide some hope. Their defensive line will relish facing off against an O-line which has allowed 27 sacks; their focus will be to exploit this weakness by placing pressure on Alaimo into making quick decisions; Akron’s ability to exploit this vulnerability and force Alaimo into making quick ones could prove decisive in this game.
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Akron Zips Against the Spread
Kent State’s recent betting trends don’t paint a rosy picture. They are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games and have consistently gone OVER the total in 6 of their last 9 outings. However, when facing Akron, they seem to up their ante, boasting a 6-1 ATS in their last 7 matchups against the Zips.
Akron, on the other hand, has also had their struggles, going 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games. Their games have frequently gone UNDER the total, especially when playing against Kent State. The fact that the total has gone UNDER in all of their last 6 home games against the Golden Flashes is a statistic that can’t be overlooked.
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Akron Zips Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Akron -173
Given the defensive vulnerabilities of Kent State and the relatively better offensive consistency of Akron, the Zips seem poised for a victory.
Spread: Kent State +3.5 (-115)
Even though Akron might emerge victoriously, Kent State’s recent history against Akron suggests they can keep it close.
Total: 40.5 under (-105)
Considering the recent UNDER trends, especially in matchups between these two, it seems likely that this game won’t be a high-scoring affair.
Predicted Score: Akron Zips 20, Kent State Golden Flashes 19
In wrapping up this analysis, while the Zips appear slightly favored given their slightly superior offensive stats, it’s the Golden Flashes who have historically stepped up against Akron. For those interested in placing their bets, always ensure you’re wagering through trusted channels, like the top online sportsbook in Canada, to guarantee the best betting experience.
