College Football Pick Akron at Kent State 10-9-10

Akron Zips (0-5) vs. Kent State Golden Flashes (1-3)

Saturday, October 9, 2010 3:30PM EST

Line: Kent State -17

Both teams are struggling coming into this inner conference meeting; Akron is winless in their first five games this season. The Zips suffered a 50 to 14 loss to Northern Illinois last weekend in their own home field, while Kent State also lost to the Miami (OH) Red Hawks last weekend. Neither of the teams here are at the top of their game this season.

Keys to the Game:

-          Kent State stands as favorites in this matchup because of their decent receiving core in Sam Kirkland, Tyshon Goode and Jacquise Terry. So far the team’s leading receiver, Kirkland has caught 20 balls for 238 yards and a touchdown.

-          The Akron Zips mainly suffer within their defense and their passing game. Though they do have a very reliable target in Jeremy LaFrance, who’s caught 22 balls for 289 yards and three touchdowns this season. Their running threat consists of Alex Allen and Nate Burney. Allen has run for 337 yards and five touchdowns this season.

-          Kent State’s quarterback, Spencer Keith, needs to limit his turnovers. He’s thrown two interceptions in each of his last three games. The sophomore hasn’t been able to throw for a touchdown since week two.

Kent State will be able to come away with a much needed win after this game, but it won’t be by much. The team has yet to let Spencer Keith feel comfortable in the pocket, and the turnovers have killed their offensive drives this season.

Free Pick: Akron +17