Nebraska football doesn't only have its sights set on facing Akron to play 12 games this season.
Athletic director Bill Moos said today after the team's practice that the university is looking to possibly schedule a game on October 27, which is Nebraska's bye week.
"We do want to play 12 games," Moos said. "We do want to be bowl eligible. We want to extend the season, the practices and all that that comes with preparing for a bowl game."
He said if that bye week date is chosen, it will likely be an FCS team.
"It's too early to give names out, but we've got some that are talking," Moos said.
Rumors have emerged of a possible showdown against Iowa State with both teams having the same bye week. Moos said the university hasn't explored that option. He also said Nebraska plans on scheduling a home game.
If Nebraska and Akron decide to play, it will be the week after the college football regular season ends. That could get tricky if either team is playing in its conference title game.
Moos said fans will not get a refund for tickets, as stated on the back of the printed tickets. However, the Nebraska Ticket Office will provide new tickets to both season ticket holders and single-game ticket holders if another home game is added.
Moos also gave specifics about the Akron game cancellation. He said the Zips decided not to take a hotel due to accommodation problems. The whole team wouldn't be able to stay in the same spot, which is why dorms on Nebraska's campus wasn't a viable option either.
Moos said contract talks regarding Akron being paid $1.17 million if the teams do not play is still being discussed. He said a payment doesn't have to be made until March 1. He hopes the two teams can play so the decision of paying or not paying Akron for a game that potentially isn't played becomes a non-issue.
WKYC-TV in Cleveland reported yesterday that Akron athletic director Larry Williams said the contract is guaranteed and he expects Nebraska will abide by the terms of the contract.
