According to Professional Football Researchers Association founder Bob Carroll; Akron was, for several years prior to 1903, a top contender for the Ohio Independent Championship (OIC), though this was in the days before the association became a force in the professional game; Akron was also passed over for the World Series of Football when it was first held in 1902.
Akron initially dismissed Massillon, telling them to "go play for a couple of years" before trying to challenge the East Ends.
Akron felt compelled to play and beat Massillon and prove itself worthy of the state title.
A game was scheduled and East Ends appeared to be in luck when several Massillon starters fell victim to injury.
In a game that had the feel of being one step short of a full-out riot, Akron lost to Massillon, 11-0, for the Ohio Independent Championship.