Kent State outlasted Akron 42-35 in a thrilling overtime battle at InfoCision Stadium, with quarterback Dru DeShields delivering a masterful five-touchdown performance through the air. The Golden Flashes built a commanding 35-17 lead early in the fourth quarter before the Zips stormed back with 18 unanswered points, including a clutch two-point conversion with just 1:59 remaining to force overtime. Kent State secured victory on their first overtime possession when DeShields connected with Ardell Banks on a decisive 25-yard touchdown strike.