Fan's Dream Play-Calling Stint With Akron Lasts Just Four Plays
A season-ticket holder won a contest to serve as Akron's offensive coordinator for a game, but his tenure ended after four plays when a fumble ended the opening drive. The fan, Marty Whims II, had prepared a 20-play script with the head coach and received advice from Nick Saban. The contest generated significant interest, with over 23 million social media views and new season-ticket holders from 38 states and abroad.
The contest's promotional impact proved substantial for Akron's athletic department, with suites selling out for the first time since InfoCision Stadium opened in 2009. The viral campaign drew celebrity participants including Jon Gruden, Pat McAfee, and Dan "Big Cat" Katz, while new season-ticket holders came from 38 states and as far as Germany. Every ticket purchase counted as a contest entry, with referrals earning additional entries.
Whims' preparation included a Friday meeting with head coach Joe Moorhead to review film and construct a 20-play opening script. Nick Saban, who began his coaching career at Toledo and graduated from MAC rival Kent State, advised Whims to run the ball and stay ahead of the chains, warning that fans would pressure him to throw. A false start penalty on right guard Nate Hampton created third-and-6, and Williams' catch gained the needed yardage before the fumble occurred.
This story may resonate beyond Akron's fan base as a case study in fan engagement and the gap between spectator perception and real coaching pressure. The contest's viral success could inspire other programs to create similar participatory promotions, potentially boosting ticket sales and social media reach. It may also deepen public appreciation for the split-second decisions coaches face, while demonstrating how gamified experiences can strengthen fan loyalty and broaden a program's geographic footprint.