Kent State vs Akron football score, recap. KSU seizes Wagon Wheel in overtime thriller

Kent State vs Akron Football: Overtime Victory and Wagon Wheel Triumph

Mid-American Conference rivals Kent State and Akron faced off in their storied Wagon Wheel matchup, delivering a thrilling overtime finish that will be remembered for years. The game took place in November, with both teams entering the contest seeking redemption and momentum.

Road Win and Rivalry Redemption

Kent State defeated Akron 42–35 in overtime, reclaiming the Wagon Wheel for the first time since dropping the previous two meetings. The win also marked KSU’s first road victory since November 26, 2022, when the Golden Flashes edged Buffalo 30–27 in overtime.

Game Summary

Kickoff began at 7:33 p.m. between the Zips (4–7, 3–4 MAC) and the Golden Flashes (4–6, 3–3 MAC). After a balanced regulation period, the game was decided in overtime.

Decisive Moments

Akron failed to score on its overtime drive. Facing a 4th-and-4 from Kent State’s 19-yard line, quarterback Ben Finley’s pass intended for tight end Conner Cravaack fell incomplete under tight coverage from safety Derrick Jackson III.
On Kent State’s first overtime play, quarterback Dru DeShields hit Ardell Banks on a 25-yard connection along the right sideline.
Will Hryszko followed with a successful PAT, sealing the 42–35 victory.

“Akron does not score on its overtime possession in overtime. The Zips have a 4th and 4 on the Flashes 19-yard line.”

Series Standing

With the win, Kent State narrowed Akron’s all-time series lead to 37–29–2. Despite the Zips having a statistical edge in several categories, KSU's execution in key moments determined the outcome.

Coaching and Program Outlook

This victory underlined Kent State’s renewed sense of direction under its new head coach, as highlighted in the MAC football analysis section following the game.

“Kent State's direction under new coach reinforced with redemption vs. Akron.”

Author’s Summary

Kent State triumphed over Akron 42–35 in overtime, ending a two-year drought in the Wagon Wheel rivalry and signaling a promising resurgence for the Golden Flashes.

Akron Beacon Journal — 2025-11-12