Akron at No. 11 Michigan preview

9/14/2013

Akron at No. 11 Michigan

■ Time: Noon

■ Records: Akron 1-1, UM is 2-0

■ TV: Big Ten Network

■ Radio: 100.7

■ Series: First meeting between the teams

■ Favorite: UM by 38

■ Notes: Michigan has averaged 50 points in its first two games, and quarterback Devin Gardner has averaged 228 yards passing. Gardner also has accounted for at least two touchdowns in his last seven games at quarterback, and had 376 total yards in last week’s 41-30 win against Notre Dame. … In Akron’s 35-33 win last week against FCS opponent James Madison, quarterback Kyle Pohl finished 14-for-22 passing for 143 yards, two TDs, and an interception. Pohl left in the second quarter because of an ankle injury, then re-entered in the third quarter in place of Nick Hirschman (6-of-10 passing, 144 yards, two TDs), who was removed after he injured his knee. … UM’s defense held Central Michigan to 66 yards rushing, and it held ND to 96 yards rushing. Against James Madison, Akron finished with 25 carries for 69 yards. … Michigan receiver Jeremy Gallon said this week he was plagued by hamstring issues against Notre Dame, but said he is healthy for today’s game. Gallon has 12 catches for 231 yards and leads the Big Ten with four TD catches. … Linebacker Justin March leads Akron with 15 tackles in the Zips’ first two games, while defensive lineman Nico Caponi has three sacks for a combined loss of 14 yards.