Buffalo Bulls defeat the Akron Zips 41-20

The Buffalo Bulls, their fans, and their coaches were desperately in need of a win. And tonight on the legs of senior half back Jordan Johnson they defeated the Akron Zips 41-20. Johnson's 288 yards bested a 25 year old UB record set by Alan Bell.

The Bulls offense started out cold, going three-and-out on their first three series before getting a short field handed to them when Akron's punter mishandled a high snap. UB managed a single first down and 21 yards before Adam Mitcheson hit a 23 yard field goal to tie the game at three.

Buffalo took their first lead in the second quarter on a six play (5 runs one pass) 77 yard drive featuring a 44 yard Jackson pass to Marcus McGill which was capped by ten yard Tyree Jackson run.

On their very next possession Buffalo's Jordan Johnson took the ball 61 yards to put the Bulls up 17-3.

Only failed punt coverage by the Bulls allowed Akron to halt UB's momentum.The Zips' JoJo Natson returned a Kyle DeWeen punt 79 yard to close to  17-10.

Just before the half a fantastic grab by Marcus McGill got UB to the 8 yard line with seven seconds left. That led to short field goal, sending the Bulls into the half up 20-10. Just the second time this year UB led at the half.

Akron pulled back to within a touchdown when a questionable pass interference call extend what would have been a three and out to open the half. Instead the zips kicked a 29 yard field goal.

Tyree Jackson's passing had its moments but he did far more damage with his feet. Early in the fourth he looked off the Akron defense before running for a 38 yard touchdown. That capped a four play 75 yard drive and reestablished UB's two score lead.

Akron fired right back, once again with a pass interference aided drive. JoJo Natson caught a 33 yard touchdown pass to bring the zips back to within a score.

The Bulls kept up the quick pace on their next drive. UB went 64 yards in five plays, first putting up 40 yards on the ground before  scoring on a 14 yard pass to Mason Schreck.

It was on the next drive that Johnson broke UB's all time single game running record. Johnson took the ball on the 39 cut back to the right and, partially sprung by a Tyree Jackson block, took the ball into the end zone.

The Bulls cruised to the win from there and move to 2-6 on the year. Have yourself a night, Jordan Johnson.