Toledo at Akron – Preview and Prediction
TOLEDO 9 AKRON (72)
MEGALOCKS LINE – Toledo -6.5 Sagarin ratings – Toledo -11.5
“Vegas” Implied Projected Score: Toledo 40.5 Akron 31.5
Massey Ratings Projected Score: Toledo 41 Akron 31
The Game
More mid-week MACtion ! Both teams are still very much alive in their quest for the MAC Title Game. Toledo cannot afford any more slip-ups like last week as they are one game behind the Broncos in the MAC West. The good news is that they finish the season with an EPIC battle in Kalamazoo on November 25th. Akron ? Win out – and they win the MAC East. Easy. They also finish with a big game at Ohio on November 22nd.
The Match-Up
Toledo offense vs Akron defense
Whoa. Toledo managed to roll for 560 yards against Ohio but still lost at home by a score of 31-26 last week. QB Logan Woodside is #3 in the FBS in passing efficiency and their OL and running game can be devastating against poor defenses. Hello, Akron ! The wacky Zips are ranked #10 in the MAC in pass efficiency defense and #11 in run defense. This should be just what the doctor ordered for the Rockets’ offense.
Akron offense vs Toledo defense
The Zips are going to have to put up a lot of points to beat the Rockets. The worry is that they are pretty one dimensional offense (#110 FBS rushing, #33 passing). Of course, the good news is that the Toledo defense has not been playing well the past few games, and overall, they have only intercepted 3 passes all season (!). QB Tommy Woodson should have ample opportunity to scorch the secondary. Defensively, Toledo has been doing a great job on 3rd down (#3 FBS) and that will be the key as to whether or not Akron can stay within the number and possibly win the game.
MEGA-MAZEMENT !
Toledo is 11-1 ATS in their past 12 road games…..Akron has failed both times as a home dog this season losing a close one to App St and getting destroyed by the Broncos.
Summary
It is difficult game to get a handle on. Neither team is playing that well. Both teams have something to play for. Over the span of four quarters we see the Toledo D making more stops than Akron. And making fewer mistakes. 9 points just seems like a lot.
Conclusion
Official play: None.
Lean: Under 71 or better for small potatoes.