In Week 6 of the 2025 college football season, the Central Michigan Chippewas travel to Akron to play the Zips at InfoCision Stadium. Central Michigan enters this game with a 3-2 record, having performed well at home but struggling on the road with a 1-2 record. Akron, on the other hand, holds a 1-4 record and aims to improve its standing in the Mid-American Conference with a win at home.
The Chippewas have found success recently, winning their last two home games, including a 24-13 victory over Eastern Michigan. Their ground game has been particularly effective, as they rushed for 311 yards against Eastern Michigan. Akron, meanwhile, experienced a tough road loss last week against Toledo, managing just 3 points while conceding 45.
With both teams belonging to the Mid-American Conference, this game is pivotal for their conference records, with Central Michigan currently at 1-0 and Akron at 0-1. The Chippewas are favored with a moneyline of -317 and a spread of -8.5, indicating expectations for them to continue their solid form. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN+ at 3:30 PM.
Akron vs Central Michigan At a Glance
- Game Location: InfoCision Stadium in Akron, OH
- Game Time: Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 3:30 PM
- TV Channel: ESPN+
- Central Michigan Record: 3-2 overall, 1-2 on the road
- Akron Record: 1-4 overall, 1-1 at home
- Game Odds: Central Michigan favored by 8.5 points with a total over/under of 45.5
Akron Zips Set to Host Central Michigan: A Deep Dive into the Away Team’s Season
Offensive Overview
Central Michigan’s offense has been a key factor in their recent performances. They have shown a balanced approach with their ability to both run and pass the ball. Their consistency in moving the chains has contributed significantly to their current standing.
The Chippewas have effectively utilized their receiving corps, spreading the ball around to multiple targets. This strategy has kept defenses guessing and allowed them to exploit various defensive schemes. Their offensive line has also played a crucial role in providing protection and creating running lanes.
Defensive Strategy
Central Michigan’s defense has been resilient, showcasing their ability to adapt to different offensive styles. They have a knack for generating turnovers, which has shifted momentum in key moments of their games.
With a focus on pressuring the quarterback, the Chippewas have effectively disrupted passing plays. Their secondary has capitalized on these opportunities, contributing to their interception tally.
Recent Performance
In their recent outings, Central Michigan has demonstrated their capability to compete against a variety of opponents. Their ability to make adjustments during games has been evident in their second-half performances.
The Chippewas have faced challenging matchups but have managed to hold their own, thanks to their strategic planning and execution. Their focus on maintaining possession and controlling the clock has been a significant factor in their success.
Key Players to Watch
Central Michigan’s roster includes several standout players who have made significant contributions this season. Their quarterback has been a driving force, effectively leading the offense and managing the game.
The Chippewas’ running back has also been a vital component, consistently gaining yardage and finding the end zone. On the defensive side, their linebackers have been instrumental in stopping the run and providing coverage.
Team Betting Trends
- Central Michigan has been strong against the spread (ATS) in their last few games.
- They have a favorable over/under (O/U) record when playing away games.
- The Chippewas have shown resilience in covering the spread after a loss.
- They tend to perform well in high-scoring games, often hitting the over.
- Central Michigan has maintained a solid ATS record as underdogs in recent matchups.
Central Michigan Chippewas: A Strong Contender on the Road
Offensive Overview
The Central Michigan Chippewas have shown their offensive strength this season with a notable rushing attack. Ranking 34th nationally, they have amassed 925 rushing yards, showcasing their ability to dominate on the ground. Despite their success in rushing, they have struggled in the passing game, ranking 107th with only 765 yards.
With 109 points scored so far this season, the Chippewas are ranked 62nd in the nation in terms of scoring. Their ability to convert first downs, ranking 41st, plays a crucial role in sustaining drives and scoring opportunities.
Defensive Strengths
Defensively, Central Michigan has been effective at pressuring opposing quarterbacks, recording 7 sacks and ranking 14th nationally. Their pass defense has been particularly impressive, with 6 interceptions, which ranks them 7th in the country. Additionally, they have demonstrated a knack for recovering fumbles, ranking 5th with 2 recoveries.
However, their defense has allowed 145 points, placing them 100th nationally, indicating room for improvement in reducing opponents’ scoring opportunities. This could be a key area to address as they aim to maintain their strong defensive turnover metrics.
Quarterback Performance
Central Michigan’s quarterback play has been led by Joe Labas, who has thrown for 560 yards and 5 touchdowns this season. Labas’ performance has been crucial to the team’s offensive efforts, particularly in the passing game, where he ranks 1st on the team. Angel Flores has also contributed with 117 passing yards, although he has yet to throw a touchdown this season.
In terms of fantasy points, Labas leads the team with 41.4, reflecting his impact on the field. Flores, despite his limited passing yards, has contributed 53.6 fantasy points, demonstrating his dual-threat capability.
Key Injuries
The Chippewas are dealing with several injuries that could impact their performance, including quarterback Jadyn Glasser who is out for the season. The team also has key players listed as questionable, including defensive backs Aakeem Snell and Jamari Allen. Additionally, the offensive line has been affected, with John Iannuzzi out for the season and several others listed as questionable.
The absence of these players could test the depth of the roster, particularly on the defensive side where turnovers have been a strength. The Chippewas will need to rely on their depth to maintain their defensive prowess.
Recent Performance
Central Michigan is coming off a 24-13 win over Eastern Michigan, demonstrating their ability to secure victories in closely contested games. Their rushing game was pivotal in this victory, with 311 yards on the ground. This marked their second consecutive win following a dominant 49-10 performance against Wagner.
In previous games, Central Michigan faced tougher opponents like Michigan and Pittsburgh, where they struggled defensively. However, their early-season win against San Jose State set a positive tone for the season.
Betting Trends
- ATS – Home Games: Last 5 Games (2024–2025) → 5-0 (100.0%)
- SU – As Favorite: Last 4 Games (2024–2025) → 4-0 (100.0%)
- SU – Home Games: Last 3 Games (2024–2025) → 3-0 (100.0%)
- SU – Totals ≥ 50: Last 3 Games (2024–2025) → 3-0 (100.0%)
- ATS – Totals ≥ 50: Last 3 Games (2024–2025) → 3-0 (100.0%)
- ATS – All Games: Last 7 Games (2024–2025) → 5-2 (71.4%)
As they prepare to take on Akron Zips, Central Michigan will look to continue their positive trends, especially as an away team. Their ability to adapt and perform under different conditions could be crucial in maintaining their momentum this season.
Akron vs Central Michigan Prediction: Over 45.5
The game between Akron and Central Michigan is shaping up to be an intriguing one with the current total set at 45.5. Akron’s recent trend shows they have consistently hit the over, especially following a loss, as they have gone 5-0 on the over in such situations since 2024. This indicates a potential for points to be scored in this matchup.
Central Michigan, while having a balanced record at 3-2, has faced challenges defensively, having allowed 145 points so far this season. Akron’s defense has also struggled, conceding 161 points, which suggests that both teams might find opportunities to score throughout the game.
Given Akron’s offensive struggles and Central Michigan’s defensive inconsistencies, the total points scored could exceed the set line of 45.5. Furthermore, both teams have shown the capacity to participate in higher-scoring games when facing defenses that are not airtight.
Taking into account both teams’ performances and defensive rankings, a projected score of Central Michigan 31 – Akron 21 supports taking the over in this matchup.
- Akron vs Central Michigan Prediction: Over 45.5
- Akron vs Central Michigan Score: Central Michigan 31 – Akron 21
