Bulls football (4-4, 3-1 MAC) lost to the Akron Zips (3-6, 2-3 MAC) at home on Saturday, marking their first Mid-American Conference loss of the season. Five turnovers, including four interceptions from senior quarterback Ta’Quan Roberson, secured the Bulls fate.
The Bulls punted on their first four drives, had a turnover on downs on the fifth, and fumbled on the sixth. A safety from senior safety Jonathan Capo were the only points Buffalo had. The Zips didn’t capitalize on these misfortunes, leading 3-2 deep into the second quarter. With 0:21 left in the first half, graduate linebacker Red Murdock forced and recovered a fumble on the Akron 16-yard line. This forced fumble placed Murdock in history, tying the NCAA record of 16 forced fumbles with former Bull Khalil Mack. A pass interference call on the next play set up a 1-yard touchdown pass from Roberson to redshirt-freshman receiver Patrick Clacks III. Buffalo led 10-3 at halftime.
The third quarter began hot offensively for both teams, with the Zips tying the game in their first drive. Buffalo went on to have a 63-yard drive down the field that included a 45-yard pass from Roberson to redshirt-junior receiver Nik McMillan, ultimately resulting in a field goal. Down 17-13 with 0:43 left in the third, Roberson threw an interception.
To begin the fourth, Akron scored in their first drive, going up 24-13. Roberson then threw his second interception, and the first of three he would throw in the fourth quarter. The only offensive highlight for the Bulls was a field goal from redshirt-freshman kicker Dylan Drennan, as well as another 45-yard pass from Roberson to McMillan. When time ran out, Akron led 24-16.
Though a loss, McMillan stood out on offense with 8 receptions for 177 yards. Murdock led the defense with 13 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Roberson went 23-for-36 for 266 yards, one touchdown and four interceptions.
The Bulls face Bowling Green (3-5, 1-3 MAC) away next week in Bowling Green, Ohio at noon. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.
The sports desk can be reached at sports@ubspectrum.com
