2025 Week 12 Wagon Wheel Preview: Kent State Golden Flashes @ Akron Zips
Improved Akron and Kent State teams face off for the Wagon Wheel trophy on Tuesday night during MACtion.
“So, rock me mama like a wagon wheel. Rock me mama any way you feel. Rock me mama like the wind and the rain. Rock me mama like a southbound train. Mama rock me.”
— Darius Rucker, 2013 hit “Wagon Wheel” and noted MAC fan
The two Northeast Ohio schools first met in 1923, and the Wagon Wheel trophy was created for the 1946 game after World War II. They have played 67 times, with Akron leading the series by nine games.
This year’s rivalry feels different because both teams have significantly improved. Akron hosts at 4-6, hoping for its first season with five wins since 2017. Kent State comes in on the road with a 3-6 record, already having won twice as many games as in the last two seasons combined.
While one team faces a losing season, the other aims to claim the Wagon Wheel in Akron.
- Kent State (3-6, 2-3 MAC) is now capable of winning games, unlike in 2023 and 2024.
- The Golden Flashes are 2-3 in conference play and have lost two close games where they led with less than two minutes remaining.
Both teams look poised for an intense battle to claim the Wagon Wheel trophy on Tuesday night.
Summary: The 2025 Wagon Wheel game features much-improved Akron and Kent State teams competing in a fierce rivalry rich with history and renewed competitive spirit.