2025 Week 12 Wagon Wheel Preview: Kent State Golden Flashes @ Akron Zips

Improved Akron and Kent State meet Tuesday night for the Wagon Wheel in a MACtion showdown. The rivalry is named after Darius Rucker's 2013 hit "Wagon Wheel," with the trophy symbolizing the intense competition.

“So, rock me mama like a wagon wheel. Rock me mama any way you feel. Rock me mama like the wind and the rain. Rock me mama like a southbound train. mama rock me.”

— Darius Rucker

Rivalry History

The two Northeast Ohio schools first faced off in 1923. The Wagon Wheel trophy was created for their matchup following World War II in 1946. They have played 67 times, with Akron leading the series by 9 games.

2025 Season Outlook

Akron enters the game with a 4-6 record, aiming for its first 5-win season since 2017.
Kent State travels with a 3-6 record, already doubling its win total from the past two seasons combined.

The winner will either end the season with a loss or claim the Wagon Wheel trophy proudly in Akron.

Kent State's Progress

Kent State (3-6, 2-3 MAC) has shown growth, now able to win games. This contrasts with prior seasons, as the Golden Flashes held leads late in two of their three conference losses.

Summary: The Akron-Kent State rivalry heats up with both teams showing significant improvement, making the 2025 Wagon Wheel game highly competitive and meaningful.

Would you like the tone to be more casual or formal?

Hustle Belt — 2025-11-11