Akron

The Zips lost significantly more talent than they gained through the transfer portal, shedding 11.2 points of production per attempt while adding just 4.7 PPA back. Israel Polk's departure to Oklahoma State removes their top receiving threat (8.0 PPA), while tight end Max Whisner also transferred to Sam Houston. Ben Finley returns as the starting quarterback, providing stability at the position, but he'll work with a reshaped receiving corps headlined by new arrival Miles Burris from Charlotte (4.1 PPA). The offense already struggled at 127th nationally (-6.9 rating), and the defense wasn't much better at 122nd (-5.4), leaving Akron with a -12.5 overall rating that ranks 130th in the country.

JP+ projects 5.1 wins for the Zips, essentially matching their 5-7 record from 2025 despite the roster turnover. The schedule presents clear tiers with home games against Eastern Michigan and Robert Morris offering the best opportunities, while road trips to Minnesota and Wake Forest loom as the toughest tests. Mid-American Conference play will likely determine whether Akron can reach bowl eligibility, with the road game at Miami (OH) particularly crucial. If Finley can develop chemistry quickly with his new receivers and the defense shows improvement, six wins remains possible. If the offensive transition stalls, another sub-.500 season becomes the likely outcome.