by Akron, Ohio- The city of Akron had a different feeling on the streets walking into the stadium. Instead of the dread fans felt as they feared another losing season, there was a sense of excitement that this season could be different.
It was indeed different for the Zips as they dominated the game from start to finish against Robert Morris with a score of 45-10. This game was the most complete game on both sides of the ball since Joe Moorehead took over at Akron four years ago.
Akron’s first possession was called by the random season ticket holder that one the competition to call the first drive. The drive started fast as they moved the chains quickly in a no-huddle, rocket-fast offense. The drive unfortunately led to a turnover from a fumble.
Akron didn’t dwell on this failed opening drive; the defense suffocated the Robert Morris offense and earned the ball back.
The Akron offense looked dynamic with a fast group of running backs and a dynamic running and passing attack from quarterback Cibastion Broughton.
Broughton’s legs bought time for his wide receivers to get open in this game. One of those wide receivers who found success today was Sean Patrick, who opened up the scoring with a 41-yard touchdown pass.
Robert Morris responded with a 43-yard touchdown pass of their own. This would be the only touchdown from the visitors as the Akron defense locked them down for the rest of the game.
Akron doubled up on touchdowns in the second quarter, giving them a comfortable lead at the end of the first half. Robert Morris ended the half on a high note thanks to a defensive holding that put them in field goal position as they added three to the score sheet. That would be the last time Robert Morris would see the scoreboard.
Akron dominated the second half thanks to a strong defense and a passing attack that saw Robert Morris chasing the Zips the remainder of the game. Akron went on to score four unanswered touchdowns to seal the game and run the Colonies out of Ohio and back to the hills of Pittsburgh.
Cibastion Broughton had one of the most impressive performances from an Akron QB. Broughton had 23 completions off of 27 attempts with four touchdowns. Not to mention that he also earned 71 rushing yards.
Photo by Brady Hamilton
