Tune In to the Gridiron Clash: Akron Zips vs. Ohio State Buckeyes

Prepare for an electrifying start to the 2024 NCAA college football season as the Akron Zips take on the formidable Ohio State Buckeyes in Week 1. With the Buckeyes ranked among the nation's top teams and the Zips eager to prove their mettle, this matchup promises to deliver an unforgettable spectacle on the gridiron.

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Tune In to the Gridiron Clash: Akron Zips vs. Ohio State Buckeyes

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* Date: Saturday, August 31, 2024

* Time: 8:00 PM EST

* Venue: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH

* Head Coach: Joe Moorhead

* Last Year's Record: 5-7

* Key Players to Watch: QB DJ Irons, RB AJ Alexander, DL Brandon Sanders

* Head Coach: Ryan Day

* Last Year's Record: 13-0 (College Football Playoff Champions)

* Key Players to Watch: QB CJ Stroud, RB TreVeyon Henderson, DE Jack Sawyer

The Ohio State Buckeyes, fresh off their national championship victory, enter this clash as overwhelming favorites. The Buckeyes boast a star-studded roster led by reigning Heisman Trophy winner CJ Stroud, a dynamic playmaker capable of shredding defenses with his arm and legs. Their defense, anchored by All-American defensive end Jack Sawyer, is equally formidable, posing a significant challenge to the Zips' offense.

On the Akron side, the Zips are determined to make a statement in their season opener. Quarterback DJ Irons returns for his sophomore season after a promising debut last year, while running back AJ Alexander will be relied upon to provide a steady presence in the ground game. The Zips' defense will have their hands full against the high-powered Buckeyes offense, but they will need to play with passion and discipline to limit the damage.

While the Ohio State Buckeyes are heavily favored, the Akron Zips should not be taken lightly. The Zips have a talented team capable of springing an upset in Week 1. However, the Buckeyes' overall depth and experience should ultimately prove too much, leading to a victory for the defending national champions.

Ohio State Buckeyes: 45

Akron Zips: 14

* CJ Stroud vs. Akron's secondary: Stroud is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the country, while Akron's secondary will need to step up to contain his aerial assault.

* AJ Alexander vs. Ohio State's front seven: Alexander is a formidable runner, but the Buckeyes' talented defensive line will provide a stern test.

* TreVeyon Henderson vs. Akron's linebackers: Henderson is a shifty and elusive running back, and Akron's linebackers must play disciplined to slow him down.

* ESPN College GameDay will provide live pregame coverage from Columbus, OH.

* The game will also be available on SiriusXM radio.

* Follow @ESPNCollegeFB on Twitter for real-time updates and highlights.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of college football as the Akron Zips battle the Ohio State Buckeyes in Week 1. Tune in to ESPN+ or the ESPN2 television network to witness this epic clash between a young and hungry underdog and one of the most dominant teams in the nation.