Akron Zips Football Coach Joe Moorhead and QB Ben Finley Set to Depart as Tenure Ends
The Akron Zips football program is set to experience a significant shakeup as head coach Joe Moorhead and starting quarterback Ben Finley are both concluding their tenures with the team today. Moorhead, who took over as the Zips’ head coach in 2020, and Finley, a standout QB who transferred to Akron in 2023, will both depart following a season of mixed results.
Moorhead, a former offensive coordinator at Penn State and head coach at Fordham, had hoped to revive Akron’s struggling football program. Despite showing glimpses of improvement, the Zips have yet to achieve consistent success under his leadership, finishing with a losing record in each of his seasons at the helm. In 2024, Akron posted a 3-9 record, with the offense continuing to struggle, and defense failing to make significant strides.
In his departure statement, Moorhead expressed gratitude to the players, staff, and fans, acknowledging the challenges while emphasizing the growth he’s seen within the program. “It has been an honor to lead the Zips, and while we didn’t reach the heights we hoped for, I believe the foundation for future success has been laid,” Moorhead said. “I wish the program and the players nothing but the best moving forward.”
Ben Finley, who transferred from NC State to Akron this past offseason, made an immediate impact under center, though his performance has been inconsistent. Finley threw for over 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024 but also struggled with turnovers and inaccuracy at times. Despite showing promise, Finley will now seek a new opportunity as he heads into his final season of eligibility.
With both Moorhead and Finley leaving, Akron is poised to search for a new head coach and quarterback as they look to build toward a brighter future in the Mid-American Conference.
