Rudy Kessinger’s 48-yard field goal with 1:50 remaining handed Eastern Michigan a 25-23 win over Akron on Saturday at InfoCision Stadium. The kick broke a late deadlock in the Mid-American Conference clash and sealed the Eagles’ third straight conference victory.
Akron had a chance to respond in the final seconds of their Homecoming game, moving 46 yards over nine plays to reach the Eastern Michigan 29-yard line. However, Matthew Schramm’s 47-yard field goal attempt with 19 seconds left veered wide, ending the Zips’ hopes of a comeback.
The loss was despite strong performances from Akron’s offensive standouts. Running back Jordan Gant rushed for 117 yards on 22 carries, while quarterback Brayden Roggow completed 17 of 24 passes for 229 yards and three touchdowns without throwing an interception. Roggow’s final touchdown was a 27-yard pass to Marquese Williams, capping a nine-play, 92-yard drive that gave Akron a 23-22 lead with just over six minutes left in the game. The Zips’ two-point conversion attempt after that touchdown failed, leaving the door open for Eastern Michigan.
Marcel Williams was also a key contributor for Akron, catching five passes for 89 yards. His two touchdown receptions, spanning 15 and 40 yards, came in the first half and helped put the Zips ahead 14-13 at halftime.
Defensively, Donelius Johnson and Mehki Flowers stood out for Akron. Johnson recorded a game-high 16 tackles, including nine solo stops. Flowers added 15 tackles with nine solo, alongside a fumble recovery and a pass breakup.
Eastern Michigan improved to 4-3 overall and 3-0 in conference play with the win. Akron fell to 1-5 on the season and 0-2 in the MAC.
The Zips will travel to Miami, Ohio, next Saturday, October 17, aiming to bounce back after this narrow loss.
According to Yahoo Sports.