Akron Zips Football

The Akron Zips football team, representing the University of Akron, holds a storied history within collegiate athletics. Established in 1891 during the institution's Buchtel College era, the team has become a prominent force in college football. Notably, it was in 1926 that the athletic teams adopted the moniker "Zippers," a nod to the rubber boots produced by the B.F. Goodrich Company was headquartered in Akron at the time. The name was later shortened to "Zips" in 1950. Today, the Akron Zips football team competes at the highest level of collegiate football, participating in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). They proudly represent their university in the Mid-American Conference's East Division. The team's home games unfold at InfoCision Stadium, located on the picturesque campus of the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio.

The Akron Zips, representing the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio, are a formidable presence in the realm of collegiate athletics. Competing at the highest level, the Zips are proud members of the NCAA's Division I, affiliated with the Mid-American Conference's East division. With 17 varsity teams spanning six men's, 10 women's, and one coed NCAA-sanctioned sports, they've established themselves as a versatile and competitive force in college sports.

The Zips' distinctive name, "Zips," originates from the iconic "zippers" – rubber overshoes produced by the BF Goodrich Company of Akron during the 1920s and 1930s. This moniker, suggested by freshman Margaret Hamlin in a university-wide contest, was officially adopted in 1950 by athletic director Kenneth Cochrane. It reflects the region's industrial heritage and spirit of innovation.

Adding to the Zips' unique identity is their beloved mascot, "Zippy" – a spirited female kangaroo. Among the relatively few female college mascots in the United States, Zippy symbolizes the Zips' agility and determination.

The Zips' football team, a cornerstone of their athletic legacy, plays its home games at the state-of-the-art InfoCision Stadium on the university's campus. Their achievements include a historic Mid-American Conference championship win in 2005, a testament to their dedication and skill.

Akron Zips History

The history of the Akron Zips football team is a testament to the enduring spirit and evolution of collegiate athletics. Established in 1891 as Buchtel College, the team began its football journey with a triumphant 22-6 victory over Western Reserve Academy in Hudson, Ohio. This initial success laid the cornerstone for a program that would grow in stature and leave an indelible mark on the collegiate football landscape.

In 1893, the college made a pivotal decision by appointing John Heisman as the football and baseball coach. Under Heisman's visionary leadership, Buchtel achieved its first winning season, boasting a 5-2 record. Notably, this era also witnessed the team's first undefeated season, albeit in a single-game season where they vanquished the Ohio State Buckeyes. Heisman's influence extended beyond victories, as he played a pivotal role in inventing the snap, a foundational element of modern football.

Throughout the years, the Zips football program weathered coaching changes while adapting and evolving. In 1926, the team adopted the moniker "Zippers" as a nod to the rubber boots manufactured by the B.F. Goodrich Company, reflecting Akron's industrial heritage. This name was eventually shortened to "Zips" in 1950.

Their journey was marked by notable achievements, with coaches like Fred Sefton and others guiding the team to winning seasons. A significant milestone in their history occurred in 2005 when the Zips secured their first Mid-American Conference championship, marking a watershed moment in their storied legacy.

Over the decades, the Zips have navigated challenges and embraced transformations, emerging as a resilient force in collegiate football. The enduring legacy of influential coaches like Gordon Larson, who led the Zips during their most successful era, continues to define the proud history of Akron Zips football.

Akron Zips Coach

As of 2022, Joe Moorhead, an American college football veteran, has assumed the role of head coach. His impressive coaching journey includes stints at Fordham University and Mississippi State University. Moorhead's return to Akron marks a new era for the Zips' football program.

Akron Zips Stadium: InfoCision Stadium

InfoCision Stadium–Summa Field, situated in Akron, Ohio, serves as the contemporary home of the Akron Zips football team. This state-of-the-art college football venue opened its doors on September 12, 2009, marking a new chapter for the University of Akron's football program. Replacing the historic Rubber Bowl, this $61.6 million project boasts a seating capacity of 27,000 in traditional seating and an additional 3,000 on the inviting grassy knoll. It features an impressive 84-foot-wide scoreboard frame, accompanied by a sizable 39 by 22-foot video board, creating an electric game-day atmosphere. Premium seating options, a seven-level press tower, and vibrant fan sections contribute to the stadium's allure.

Akron Zips Rivals

One of the most heated rivalries in college football is between Akron and Kent State, just 10 miles apart. Their history dates back to 1923, with interruptions during WWII. Since 1992, when Akron joined the MAC, this rivalry has intensified. The annual clash for the Wagon Wheel trophy, a symbol of their fiercely contested encounters, adds further excitement to their battles.

The Wagon Wheel Trophy

The Blue and Gold Wagon Wheel, simply known as the Wagon Wheel, symbolizes the enduring rivalry between Akron and Kent State. It's a testament to their shared history and competitive spirit, with Kent State currently holding a narrow lead in the series. This trophy encapsulates the essence of this thrilling rivalry.

Akron Zips Record and stats

The Akron Zips football program has a storied history, competing in various conferences and as an independent team. From their early days in the Ohio Athletic Conference to their current membership in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), the Zips have demonstrated their commitment to the game.

Notably, in 2005, the Zips clinched the MAC East Division title, leading to a thrilling 31–30 victory in the 2005 MAC Championship Game, a momentous achievement in the program's history.

Furthermore, the Zips have participated in three bowl games, tallying a 1–2 record. J. D. Brookhart's tenure as head coach saw their automatic berth in the 2005 Motor City Bowl.

With 51 All-Americans, including one consensus All-American, and four Zips receiving superlative conference honors during their time in the MAC, Akron Zips football has left an indelible mark in collegiate football history.

Conference championships

Division championships

Akron Zips Roster

Akron Zips Schedule