2026 Akron Zips Preview: Can the Zips Return to a Bowl Game for the First Time Since 2017?

Offense

The quarterback position seems to belong to North Texas transfer, via Miami and UAlbany, Reese Poffenbarger. He was very productive at UAlbany in 2022 and 23, throwing for 60 touchdowns and rushing for eight more. Brayden Roggow returns after being a backup last season.

The running back room is led by All-MAC performer Jordan Gant. The former Tennessee State transfer burst onto the scene last season, rushing for 1,032 yards and seven total touchdowns. His return is massive. Sean Patrick also returns after showing flashes as a freshman.

The wide receiver room returns an All-MAC selection in Marcel Williams. Williams led the Zips with 641 receiving yards last season. Kyan Mason also returns after compiling 481 receiving yards and five touchdowns. They form a very good outside and slot duo.

The offensive line returns several players who were in last season’s rotation. Colin Lyons and Allen Jones Jr. return as starters. Expect Dayne Shor to lock down Poffenbarger’s blindside.

Defense

The defensive line room returns experience in Ronald Hull, Jon’Trell Mixon, and twins Dahvon and Jahvon Fraizer. The leader of the group is Cyrus Durham. Durham was productive last season and showed some flashes last season. The addition of former Ohio State 4-star Omari Abor is something to watch.

The linebacker room returns Jason Hocker in the middle, but even he has limited experience. Dwight Nunoo transfers in from FIU and will be relied upon. As will Gavin James and Devin Reeves.

The secondary is the strength of the defense. Rodrick Hunter and former Oregon transfer Daymon David are stout at safety. While cornerbacks Terence Thomas and Aamii Branch are certainly names to watch. Several transfers have also been added to compete.

Specialists

Both kicker Matthew Schramm and punter Joseph Castle return after very solid seasons. Sean Patrick is also a solid punt returner.

2026 Schedule

• 9/3 at Wake Forest
• 9/12 Robert Morris
• 9/19 at Minnesota
• 9/26 UNLV
• 10/3 at Central Michigan
• 10/10 Eastern Michigan
• 10/17 at Miami (OH)
• 10/24 at Kent State
• 11/3 Ohio
• 11/10 Western Michigan
• 11/18 at UMass
• 11/27 Buffalo

Final Analysis

Akron’s bowl ban has been lifted and making a bowl game is well within reach. Going 4-4 in MAC play last season was a great start, now it’s time to build upon that. With a talented skill group on offense and Reese Poffenbarger performing well, this offense could be very fun to watch.