The Akron Zips, widely regarded as 48.5-point underdogs, surprised many by scoring first against the Ohio State Buckeyes. Despite expectations, the Zips managed to threaten the Buckeyes’ 17-3 lead at the end of the first half through unexpected tactics, including a two-quarterback formation.
However, by the conclusion of the game, the anticipated outcome prevailed: the Ohio State Buckeyes (1-0) overcame a slow start and any adversity to claim a dominating 52-6 victory over the Akron Zips (0-1) at Ohio Stadium.
Akron’s defense set the tone early by forcing Ohio State into a three-and-out on their opening drive. The Zips capitalized, driving to the Buckeyes’ 23-yard line. With starting quarterback Ben Finley sidelined due to a shoulder injury, backup Tahj Bullock stepped in and completed two passes for 18 yards, helping the Zips to a field goal from Garrison Smith Jr., giving them an early 3-0 lead.
Ohio State quickly answered with an efficient drive, culminating in a touchdown pass from Will Howard to prized freshman Jeremiah Smith from 16 yards away, securing a 7-3 lead after a 10-play, 76-yard drive lasting over six minutes.
Akron had a chance to make a statement early in the second quarter when Aman Greenwood broke up a fourth-down pass attempt by Ohio State, forcing a turnover on downs. However, a swift interception by Finley two plays later gave the Buckeyes another opportunity, which they converted into a field goal, extending the lead to 10-3.
After another Akron three-and-out, Ohio State pulled further ahead with a second touchdown pass from Howard to Smith, this time on a spectacular one-handed catch to make it 17-3. The Zips managed to advance into Buckeye territory later in the half but were unable to score, struggling with injuries and turnovers.
The game took a downward turn for Akron as Finley left due to shoulder and rib injuries, leaving Bullock to handle the offense. Ohio State capitalized on this moment as Howard quickly led the team downfield, scoring on a two-yard run by Quinshon Judkins. The Buckeyes added a defensive touchdown shortly after, recovering a fumble by Bullock to push the score to 31-3 just 30 seconds into the second half.
Smith Jr. stopped the bleeding for Akron with a 49-yard field goal, making it 31-6, but Ohio State responded with 21 unanswered points, including a rushing touchdown, a passing touchdown, and a pick-six, decisively ending the contest.
Will Howard, despite a rocky start, finished with 228 passing yards and three touchdowns. Jeremiah Smith had an impressive debut with six receptions, 92 yards, and two touchdowns, becoming the first Ohio State freshman receiver to achieve this in his debut since 1996. Other notable contributors included Carnell Tate and Emeka Egbuka.
On the ground, TreyVeon Henderson led the Buckeyes with 65 rushing yards, while Quinshon Judkins and James Peoples each contributed to the rushing attack with touchdowns.
Defensively, Lathan Ransom was instrumental, recovering a fumble for a touchdown and leading the team with nine tackles. The Buckeyes’ defensive strength was highlighted by multiple tackles for loss and an interception return for a touchdown late in the game.
For Akron, Bullock completed 9 of 13 passes for 68 yards and led the team in rushing yards. Finley and true freshman Brayden Roggow also saw action, but the team’s rushing game struggled significantly.
As the Zips prepare for their next game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on September 7, Ohio State will host the Western Michigan Broncos at Ohio Stadium on the same day.