After suffering their first loss of the season against Mississippi State in Week 2, the Gophers will look to get back on track in their final nonconference game of the season in Week 3 against Akron. Early betting odds favor Minnesota by more than 24 points.
The Gophers have opened as (-24.5) point betting favorites for their Week 3 matchup at home against Akron.The Zips responded with a 45-10 win over Robert Morris last week after opening with a loss to Wake Forest.Let’s hear some early predictions. 👇👇👇 pic.twitter.com/u7JtqBzNRE
— Tony Liebert (@TonyLiebert) September 14, 2026
How to watch
- Date: Saturday, September 19
- Time: 11 a.m. CT
- TV/streaming: Big Ten Network (BTN)
- Radio: KFAN FM 100.3
Akron has had a chaotic start to the season under fifth-year head coach Joe Moorhead. Presumed starting quarterback Reese Poffenbarger has not played this season due to ongoing eligibility questions, and a social media promotion led to a random contest winner helping to call plays in Week 2 against Robert Morris.
Ultimately, Akron is probably in its best position as a program since it last went to a bowl game in 2017. Second-year quarterback Cibastian Broughton has looked solid to start the season with an 83.0 completion percentage, 491 total yards and four total touchdowns. The Zips are 1-1 with a 38-16 loss at Wake Forest and a 45-10 win at home over Robert Morris.
The Gophers are currently favored to win Saturday’s game by 24.5 points. Fans will be expecting a comfortable win after the disappointing performance against Mississippi State, but they’re also aware of Minnesota’s history of struggling against MAC teams. The Zips could prove to be a frisky foe with the eighth-best odds to win their conference at +3000, according to FanDuel Sportsbook…