Mission: Impossible

Akron ('98: 4-7, 2-6 MAC)

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Posted: Wednesday August 11, 1999 06:03 PM

The Plot

There's at least one clear way this year for the Zips to elevate themselves from the anonymous realm of college football whipping boy: Beat Penn State on Sept. 4. If that doesn't work for a program still reeling from a 59-14 shelling at the hands of eventual national champ Nebraska to open 1997, then Akron can focus on continuing last year's marked increase in competitiveness.

The Director

Lee Owens, fifth season, 12-32

Ensemble cast

QB James "Butchie" Washington -- First returning starting QB in Owens' tenure passed for 1,958 yards but struggled in close games last year.
G Dan Wessman -- All-MAC performer.
WR Lavel Bailey -- Emerged as serious receiving threat last fall.
SS Nate Johnson -- Moves from linebacker to shore up empty secondary.

And introducing

S Mike Hughes -- Junior had breakthrough spring and should finally have impact.

Why it will work

Core returnees bound to improve after "keeping it close" with conference's best last season.

Why it won't

Lack of a clear rushing threat and holes throughout defense.

Our critics' review

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