Bowling Green Survives Akron Comeback, Wins 27-20 in a Thrilling Matchup
Akron, OH – In a game filled with momentum swings, Bowling Green (BGSU) held off a late charge from Akron to secure a 27-20 victory on Saturday. The Falcons relied on key plays from running back Jaison Patterson and clutch kicking from Jackson Kleather to edge past the Zips in a back-and-forth battle.
First Half: Tight Battle
Bowling Green struck first midway through the opening quarter when Patterson capped off a steady drive with a 2-yard touchdown run, giving the Falcons a 7-0 lead. Akron responded with a 47-yard field goal by Garrison Smith, narrowing the gap to 7-3. The momentum quickly shifted when Akron’s defense delivered a crucial turnover at the end of the first quarter. Liam Reardon scooped up a fumble and returned it to the end zone, giving Akron a surprising 10-7 lead at the close of the quarter.
Despite the turnover, BGSU regrouped in the second quarter. Kleather tied the game with a 45-yard field goal, and with just 22 seconds left in the half, Patterson broke free for a 9-yard run, putting the Falcons back on top 17-10 at the break.
Second Half: A Close Finish
Bowling Green extended their lead to 20-10 early in the fourth quarter, but Akron wasn’t done yet. Quarterback Tahj Bullock orchestrated a drive that he capped off with a 5-yard touchdown run to pull the Zips within three, 20-17.
Akron tied the game at 20-20 with just over seven minutes remaining when Garrison Smith nailed a 38-yard field goal, setting the stage for a tense finish.
The Falcons leaned on their rushing attack to close out the game, and it was Harold Fannin Jr. who delivered the game-winning blow, breaking through the defense for a 31-yard touchdown run with 2:39 left on the clock.
Akron had one last opportunity to respond but failed to advance the ball past midfield, sealing the 27-20 victory for BGSU.
What’s Next:
With the win, Bowling Green improves to 4-2 on the season and will face Toledo next week in a key rivalry matchup. Akron, now 1-5, will look to bounce back as they travel to face Eastern Michigan.
Photos by Natalie Holbrook