Wagon Wheel Up for Grabs Tuesday Night in Akron
AKRON, Ohio – The Kent State Golden Flashes (3-6, 2-3 MAC) head to Summit County to take on their long-time rivals, the Akron Zips (4-6, 3-3 MAC), on Tuesday evening at InfoCision Stadium in the annual Battle for the Wagon Wheel.
Series History and Rivalry Stakes
Tuesday’s matchup marks the 69th meeting between these in-state foes. Akron currently leads the all-time series with a 38-28-2 record and has claimed victory in the last two contests, including a 38-17 win earlier in 2024.
The coveted Wagon Wheel trophy, symbolizing bragging rights across Northeast Ohio, remains in Akron’s possession following that victory. This adds extra motivation for Kent State, eager to reclaim both pride and position within the Mid-American Conference standings.
Quarterbacks Turned Head Coaches
An interesting subplot to this year’s showdown is that both head coaches are former Fordham University quarterbacks. Kent State’s Mark Carney and Akron’s Joe Moorhead each left their mark in the Rams’ football history.
- Mark Carney ranks fifth all-time at Fordham with 32 passing touchdowns and tenth with 3,496 passing yards, setting the school’s touchdown record in 2001.
- Joe Moorhead stands seventh in touchdowns with 30 and fifth in passing yards with 5,925.
Now, these two former teammates bring their shared Fordham past into a new chapter as opposing leaders on the MAC stage.
"This rivalry always brings out the best in both programs," said a Kent State athletics spokesperson.
Game Information
Kickoff is set for Tuesday night at InfoCision Stadium in Akron, with the Wagon Wheel once again on the line.
Author’s summary: Longtime rivals Kent State and Akron face off again Tuesday night, renewing their historic battle for the Wagon Wheel under two coaches who once shared the same collegiate roots.