Akron makes it official, give coach Terry Bowden a 2-year [extension] that runs through 2018. Zips 4-7 after three straight 1-11 seasons.
— Ralph D. Russo (@ralphDrussoAP) November 21, 2013
Akron is still a long way form competing for a MAC title against the likes of Northern Illinois and the program looked about as bad as any around the country earlier in the year, but the team has started to work up the ranks within the conference. You can tell Akron is improving because they are beating other struggling teams in the MAC. Three of Akron’s wins have come against Massachusetts, Miami Ohio and Kent State. All three are behind Akron in the MAC East standings. Akron also went on the road and nearly pulled off an upset in Michigan Stadium against the Wolverines.
“I couldn’t be more pleased with the progress we’ve made,” Bowden said in a released statement. “I’m proud of the dedication of the players and staff, who have never given up and are starting to see the rewards of their hard work. This contract extension is a product of their efforts and I appreciate the continued dedication the University has made to Zips Football. That dedication of resources was apparent when I interviewed for this position and helps with every aspect of our program.”
Where does Akron go from here? Who knows. Akron always faces an uphill battle when it comes to recruiting. Not only do they play in the same state as two football programs from bigger conferences (Ohio State, Cincinnati) but they also share the state with other MAC rivals Ohio, Kent State, Miami Ohio, Toledo and Bowling Green. Bowden has his work cut out for him when it comes to selling the Akron program, but the building up of the program was always going to need to take baby steps forward after years of futility.
Akron takes on Toledo in their season finale. Win or lose, Akron has found something they can continue to build on moving forward in to 2014.
Photo: Akron Athletics