(BCSNN) — The Wagon Wheel is rolling back to Kent.

In a rivalry game packed with drama, Kent State outlasted Akron 42–35 in overtime Tuesday night at InfoCision Stadium-Summa Field, reclaiming the coveted trophy for the first time since 2022.

Quarterback Dru DeShields threw for 317 yards and five touchdowns, including the game-winner — a 25-yard strike to Ardell Banks on the first play of overtime.

Kent State (4–6, 3–3 MAC) appeared in control after building a 35–17 lead early in the fourth quarter, but Akron (4–7, 3–4 MAC) stormed back with 18 unanswered points in the final 10 minutes. Zips quarterback Ben Finley tied the game with a touchdown pass to Israel Polk and a two-point conversion to Marcel Williams with 1:59 remaining.

After a Kent State punt and an Akron drive stalled at midfield, the game went to overtime. DeShields immediately delivered, lofting a perfect pass to Banks down the right sideline for the go-ahead score. The Flashes’ defense held firm on Akron’s final possession, sealing the win and igniting a celebration on the Kent State sideline.