Akron Preview

PSU's season opener against the Zips is eight measly days away and, as all the players will tell you, they aren't looking past Akron to South Bend (right). But, since Joe won't let the Lions overlook the MAC champs neither should we.
The Zips have already started to go over the Lion's in practice and will continue their cram session until September second. Before we all get to saying that the Zips are terrible lets just remember that they are the defending MAC Champions and are ranked 56th in the nation (ahead of NW and Minnesota, by the way). The Zips have 16 starters returning so there will be some talent on the field they also have had the MAC's top rated recruiting class, for the second year in a row. Their QB and O-line returns and should be a good test for PSU's front four.
That being said, the Zips have lost the three players which contributed to over 75% of their all purpose yardage last year. In fact, most of their offensive skill position players have graduated, this will let a young PSU secondary cut their teeth before facing a much deeper and more talented ND team the next week.
Penn State's offense should be able to move the ball well against the Zips, provided they crack the 3-3 defense which Akron likes to run (yes 3-3, that is a lot of DBs).
If you are still dying to know about an average Zips team check them out at their homepage.
All in all PSU should win and if they are in fact better than their #19 ranking they should win big. As for an actual prediction....that will have to wait for next week!

GO STATE! Beat the ZIPS!