{
  "id": 7027151,
  "title": "Akron fan took delightfully expected route as surprise 'offensive coordinator'",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/13/akron-fan-took-delightfully-expected-route-as-surprise-offensive",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-13T00:29:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/akron-fan-took-delightfully-expected-002920270.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Akron fulfilled its promise by allowing a season-ticket holder to call the offensive plays on the opening drive of their home opener against Robert Morris. Marty Whims II, a longtime fan and Akron alumnus, emerged victorious in the contest, open only to season-ticket and suite holders. Whims wasted no time implementing an aggressive no-huddle strategy for the Zips, moving the ball to the Colonials' 37-yard line. However, Akron's brief stint as the offensive coordinator came to an abrupt end when the team lost possession by fumbling the ball, ending the drive. In a post-game interview, Whims expressed his belief that Akron could have scored a touchdown if they hadn't fumbled the football. Despite the setback, Akron went on to secure a substantial 45-10 victory in the second half against the FCS opponent.",
  "summary": "Akron tabbed a fan as its offensive coordinator for the opening drive. Was it ever a mystery what he was going to do?",
  "key_points": [
    "Akron season-ticket holder Marty Whims II became surprise offensive coordinator",
    "Whims implemented no-huddle strategy, reached 37-yard line",
    "Team lost possession by fumble, ending his brief offensive stint"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The unusual promotion of a fan to call plays signals a creative approach by Akron to engage its loyal supporters, but ultimately had little impact on the game's decisive outcome.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}