GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: The offensive line looked much-improved against Oklahoma, largely keeping Zeb Noland comfortable in the pocket. As a result, Noland was accurate all over the field, keeping the Cyclones on pace with the high-scoring Sooners. Freshman Colin Newall looked strong in his first career start, and he and the line will look for continued improvement against the Zips. If Akron’s able to slow down David Montgomery and get to Noland, it’s already shown the ability to upset BCS teams with bowl hopes, having just accomplished that against Northwestern.
DRAFT SLANT
–RB David Montgomery had 28 yards and a touchdown on his 21 carries against Oklahoma. He also got the ball out of the Wildcat formation, which had mixed success but will likely be a part of the offense again this week against Akron.
ROSTER REPORT:
–QB Kyle Kempt will miss his second consecutive game this weekend. He’s week-to-week and is questionable for the game the following week against TCU.
–LB Bobby McMillen tore his ACL against Oklahoma and is out for the season. It’s the second knee injury in three seasons for the special teams contributor.
–QB Brock Purdy and QB Re-al Mitchell could both see playing time against Akron. Coach Matt Campbell said this week that he’s anxious to get both freshman some game snaps to see how they fare.
–TE Chase Allen left the Oklahoma game with a groin injury. His status for the Akron game will be determined later in the week.
===
