Eastern Michigan Edged Past Akron 25-23
The Eagles secured a victory after a late 48-yard field goal from kicker Rudy Kessinger.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Football
Eastern Michigan defeated Akron 25-23 on Thursday night behind a late-game scoring drive. Kicker Rudy Kessinger provided the winning margin with a 48-yard field goal with 1:50 remaining.
Why it matters
The narrow victory for Eastern Michigan keeps the team on track as they look toward their next conference matchup. Conversely, Akron faces a tough loss as the program prepares for a road trip to Miami (OH).
Rudy Kessinger converted four field goals, including a decisive 48-yard kick to conclude an 11-play, 42-yard drive. Noah Kim recorded 277 passing yards on 26-of-46 completions for the Eagles.
The players
Rudy Kessinger
He is the Eastern Michigan placekicker who successfully converted four field goals during the victory.
Noah Kim
He serves as the starting quarterback for Eastern Michigan and managed 277 passing yards in the game.
Brayden Roggow
He is the Akron quarterback who led the Zips offense by throwing three touchdown passes.
Marcel Williams
He is an Akron wide receiver who caught two touchdown passes during the game.
Jordan Gant
He is an Akron running back who contributed 117 rushing yards to his team's total effort.
The details
Akron quarterback Brayden Roggow threw three touchdown passes in a losing effort, including two to Marcel Williams. Despite strong individual performances from Jordan Gant, who rushed for 117 yards, the Zips could not fend off the final Eagles scoring drive.
Timeline
The game took place on October 10, 2026.
The winning 48-yard field goal occurred with 1:50 remaining in the game.
Next games are scheduled for October 17, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This result significantly impacts the Mid-American Conference standings as both teams enter the middle stretch of the 2026 season. The outcome forces a recalibration of the playoff and bowl qualification paths for both programs as they move into next week's schedule.
Akron fans will look to see if the offense can replicate its three-touchdown performance against Miami (OH) next week. The loss drops Akron's status in the division standings, impacting their upcoming bowl eligibility requirements.
The takeaway
Close conference losses often reveal critical areas for late-game defensive improvements. Consistent kicking performance remains a vital asset for securing narrow wins in tight competitive environments.
What happens next
Akron is scheduled to travel to play at Miami (OH) on October 17, 2026, while Eastern Michigan will host Toledo on the same day.
Further reading
For more coverage on the team's season progress, visit the Akron Football section.
