Akron's FBS Journey
Akron University Prepares For Fortieth Season In The Football Bowl Subdivision
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The University of Akron is heading into its 40th season in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), marking four decades since it became the first school to jump from Division I-AA to the top tier of college football in 1987. Despite being a pioneer, Idaho State Journal reports the payoff has remained elusive — Akron has won just 159 games against 288 losses as an FBS program, with only eight winning seasons and three bowl trips in that span.
Last season, Akron finished 5-7 while facing NCAA academic sanctions and lost 41 scholarship players to the transfer portal, including 11 of its top 15 recruits who left for Power Four programs. Yahoo Sports notes that former president William Muse said the university was "one of the largest unknown universities in the United States" when leaders decided to make the leap in 1987. Today, Akron has the second-smallest budget among FBS public schools and the lowest in the Mid-American Conference.
A Historic Gamble That Hasn't Paid Off
When Akron moved to Division I-A in 1987, thirty-five other schools eventually followed, but none faced the same sustained struggles. According to Idaho State Journal, the Zips own a 16-62 record in recent seasons — the second-worst mark in the entire FBS. Only eight winning seasons in four decades tells the story of a program that bet big on elevation but couldn't sustain success at the highest level.
The Transfer Portal Exodus and Budget Reality
Akron's challenges intensified last offseason when 41 scholarship players left the roster. Idaho State Journal reports that 11 of the team's top 15 prospects transferred to Power Four programs, draining talent before the season even started. Meanwhile, the university operates with the lowest budget in the Mid-American Conference and the second-smallest among all FBS public schools, making it nearly impossible to compete with richer rivals.
Coach Moorhead Navigates NCAA Sanctions and Social Media Buzz
Coach Joe Moorhead managed a 5-7 record last season while the program labored under NCAA academic sanctions — a tough balancing act. Yet Greenwich Time reports there's still optimism in Akron. The team's viral promotion for its September 12 home opener against Robert Morris generated over 23 million views on social media, showing the fanbase hasn't abandoned hope despite four decades of disappointment.
No Plans to Reverse Course Despite Struggling Record
Despite the grim statistics and financial constraints, Idaho State Journal confirms the university has no plans to rethink its 1987 decision to move to the FBS. Athletic leaders remain committed to the path forward, banking on future recruiting improvements and the hope that a viral moment could spark a turnaround. For now, Akron waits to see if year 40 brings any relief.
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