Angel Flores has TD pass, scoring run as Central Michigan beats Akron 41-17 in MAC opener

MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. (AP) — Central Michigan secured a 41-17 victory over Akron in their first-ever Mid-American Conference matchup on Saturday. The game marked a significant milestone for both teams as they kicked off their respective seasons.

Angel Flores led the Central Michigan offense with a dual performance, rushing for 154 yards and a touchdown, and contributing another scoring pass. This impressive playmaking ability helped the Chippewas overcome a 7-0 deficit in the second quarter.

Flores tied the game with a 55-yard touchdown run, and then connected with Shawn Foster II for a 48-yard scoring pass, giving Central Michigan the lead. Brock Townsend then sealed the early advantage with a 5-yard touchdown run with only 18 seconds remaining in the half, making the score 21-7 in favor of Central Michigan.

The second half saw Central Michigan extend their lead further. Nick Woodford scored on a 27-yard run early in the quarter, followed by Jayden Clerveaux's 23-yard touchdown run, which marked his first career touchdown. This sequence pushed the score up to 35-10.

Akron's Brayden Roggow completed 180 yards and a touchdown through the air, but his performance was marred by three interceptions. Jordan Gant contributed 102 rushing yards and a touchdown for Akron, who finished the game with 332 total yards and four touchdowns on the day.