Akron Zips traveled to Kentucky to face the Wildcats at Kroger Field
Once again, it’s game day in the Bluegrass! With today’s Akron vs Kentucky football game, the University of Kentucky would be hosting it’s last game before SEC play kicks off for the 2023 college football season. Kentucky is off to a perfect start with a 3-0 record, albeit it certainly hasn’t been perfect. Meanwhile, Akron has had a tougher time with a 1-2 record to start their season. The Wildcats lead the series matchup with the Zips, with a 2-0 record.
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Game Final Score
TheAkron vs Kentucky football final game score was 3-35. This brings the Cats to 3-0 on the season, and adds another win tohead coach Mark Stoops’ record as the winningest coach all-time for the University of Kentucky football program.
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Recap
Kentucky took control of the game right from the start. Leary found Davis for a 39-yard completion, leading to a 6-yard touchdown pass to Kattus for an early 7-0 lead. The defense forced Akron into a quick three-and-out, giving Kentucky another chance to score. Although they were unable to do so, a muff by Akron on a punt gave Kentucky excellent field position. However, they could not capitalize on it and were forced to punt. Akron struggled to make progress on offense and punted again. Kentucky continued to lead 7-0 at the end of the first quarter.
Early in the second quarter, Leary threw a long pass to Jordan Dingle, but Akron managed to force a fumble and recover it in the end zone. Akron had a chance to score with a field goal attempt, but it fell short. Kentucky took advantage of this and pushed deep into Akron’s territory. Just before halftime, Leary connected with Robinson for a touchdown, extending their lead to 14-0.
Akron started the second half with possession but had a fourth-down conversion called back due to a penalty. They were forced to punt, and Kentucky took over on their own 22-yard line. Kentucky looked poised to score on their next possession, but a holding penalty nullified a touchdown pass. Leary was then intercepted by Akron, giving them good field position. Akron managed to score a field goal, trimming Kentucky’s lead to 14-3.
The pivotal play of the game occurred when Leary escaped a potential sack and threw a 58-yard touchdown pass to Davis, extending Kentucky’s lead to 21-3. On their next possession, Kentucky only needed three plays to score a touchdown, with Davis rushing for a 55-yard touchdown run. Akron had an opportunity to score again but missed a field goal. Kentucky held a significant 28-3 lead. Near the end of the game, Sumo-Karngbaye rushed for a 42-yard gain, setting up his own touchdown run from six yards out. Kentucky led 35-3.
Devin Leary had an outstanding game, throwing for 315 yards and three touchdowns. Ray Davis contributed with 169 all-purpose yards. Kentucky dominated Akron with a final score of 35-3 at Kroger Field.
Leary completed 16 of his 25 passes, connecting with Josh Kattus, Tayvion Robinson, and Davis for touchdowns. Davis not only rushed for 72 yards on seven carries but also caught three passes for 97 yards. Kentucky’s total offensive yardage for the game was 450 yards.
On the defensive side, Maxwell Hairston led the team with seven tackles, while Trevin Wallace made five tackles and had two sacks.
Kentucky football is off to a good start, however they definitely need to tighten things up for the tough run ahead in SEC conference games. Stay tuned for more thrilling victories, explosive plays, and moments that will have you on the edge of your seat. Go Wildcats!
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Box Score
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Highlights Video:
Full Game Highlights
Next Saturday on September 23rd, Kentucky will travel to Vanderbilt to begin their SEC play. So grab our new It’s A Party Shirt, Talk Tailgate Tshirt, or some Kentucky Gear, and set your alarms for 11am CT and catch all the action.
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