Welcome to the MAC-Attack, your look inside Mid-American Conference athletics. NCAA College Football is on the near horizon and with the anticipation comes predictions for the upcoming season. Therefore it only seems logical to kick off the first MAC-Attack column with a preview of the conference I know best, the Mid-American Conference. On the docket today are the Zips from the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio.

2008 Record: 3-5 (5-7)

Key Losses:

  • RB Dennis Kennedy
  • RB Andrew Johnson
  • CB Brandon Anderson
  • LB Kevin Grant
  • S Bryan Williams
  • S Doug Williams

2009 Key Games:

  • Penn State (Away, 9/05)
  • Indiana (Home, 9/19)
  • Central Michigan (Away, 9/26)
  • Buffalo (Away, 10/17)

Analysis:
The Zips biggest weakness last season was the defense, a trend likely to continue this season. In 2008, the Zips lost four games by less than a touchdown. Two safeties, a corner back and linebacker from last year's starting defense have departed, leaving holes in the already mediocre lineup. Akron must fill these holes or else the other high-powered offenses of the MAC will beat up poor Zippy.

Despite losing two of the top three running backs from last year's depth chart, the offense has definite potential. Quarterback Chris Jacquemain as well as Wide Receivers Deryn Bowser, Jeremy Bruce, Andre Jones and Dashan Miller are all returning from the 2008 roster. Provided the running game holds up, the Zips' offense should be dangerous.

Bottom Line:
Akron's defense is certainly something to be concerned about, but assuming the Zips can figure out a way to patch their defensive holes Zippy the Roo can sleep tight knowing the powerful offense will pull them through most Mid-American Conference games. Akron's non conference schedule is easy enough to allow the Zips to win two of their four games.

Predicted 2009 Record: 5-3 (7-5)