On paper you wouldn't think there would be much of a matchup in The Other Game between FIU and Akron, considering the schools and the respective cities where each is located. But The Other Game is not played on paper. What, did you think this was some kind of fantasy football? The Other Game is played on-line where things get settled via the internet. So let's get to what figures to be an intriguing matchup.
FIU vs. AKRON -- The Other Game
-- FIU's first nickname was the Sunblazers. Akron's first and only nickname is the Zippers, shortened to Zips. The Zips are named after a rubber galosh shoe that features a zipper. As Smash Mouth sang, try "Walkin' On the Sun", even with Zippers on. FIU 1, Akron 0.
-- South Florida has Lake Okeechobee. Akron has Lake Erie. Lake Erie is one of the Great Lakes, but I know which one I'd rather be swimming in. FIU 2, Akron 0.
-- The FIU men's soccer team was the 1996 NCAA runner-up losing in the national championship game to St. John's. The Akron men's soccer team is the 2010 national champion. FIU 2, Akron 1.
-- In Miami, we have real rubberneckers (right) whenever there is a car accident. In Akron, Rubberneckers was a suggested nickname before the school decided on Zips. FIU 2, Akron 2.
-- Detroit Bowl games: FIU won its first bowl game -- the Pizza Bowl at Detroit's Ford Field. Akron lost its first bowl game -- the Motor City Bowl at Detroit's Ford Field. FIU 3, Akron 2.
-- FIU has Heisman candidate T.Y. Hilton. Akron had the trophy man himself in John Heisman (left). FIU 3, Akron 3.
-- Actor Clark Gable (right), of "Gone with the Wind" fame, once worked at Goodrich Tire Co. in Akron. From Miami I say, "Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn!" FIU 4, Akron 3.
-- In 1922, Akron native George Sisler hit in 41 consecutive games -- then a major league record. Miami native and former FIU infielder Garrett Wittels hit in 56 consecutive games. FIU 5, Akron 3.
-- Akron hosts the National Hamburger Festival (left) each year. FIU has defensive back Jose Cheeseborough. A burger is not a burger without a slice of cheese. PUSH. FIU 5, Akron 3, PUSH 1.
-- When he came to Miami, Akron native LeBron James said the Heat would win seven championships. Still waiting on the first one. At Akron's St. Vincent-St. Mary High, LeBron (right) won a state championship. FIU 5, Akron 4, PUSH 1.
