Boca Raton Bowl Matchup

By AP
Published

Akron (7-6, Mid-American Conference) vs. Florida Atlantic (10-3, Conference USA), Dec. 19, 7 p.m. (ESPN)

LOCATION: Boca Raton, Florida

TOP PLAYERS

Akron: LB Ulysees Gilbert is a first-team all-Mid-American Conference selection who has recorded more than 120 tackles each of the last two seasons.

Florida Atlantic: RB Devin Singletary, 1,796 yards rushing, 6.5 yards per carry, 29 touchdown runs.

NOTABLE

Akron: The Zips reached the Mid-American Conference championship game for the first time since 2005. They lost the MAC championship game 45-28 to Toledo.

Florida Atlantic: After going 3-9 each of the last three years, Florida Atlantic captured the Conference USA title this season under new coach Lane Kiffin. The Owls have won nine straight and now play a bowl game at their home stadium.

LAST TIME

This is the first meeting between Akron and Florida Atlantic.

BOWL HISTORY

Akron: First Boca Raton Bowl appearance and fourth bowl berth overall.

Florida Atlantic: First Boca Raton Bowl berth and third bowl appearance overall. This marks Florida Atlantic's first bowl game since a 2008 Motor City Bowl victory.

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