The Success of True Freshman Kicker, Jameson Vest

REPLACING KICKING LEGEND, JEREMIAH DETMER

By: Zach Harig -- December 7, 2015

Eleven months ago, the Toledo Rockets were in Mobile, Alabama coming off of a GoDaddy Bowl victory. Not only that, but the Rockets were celebrating some tremendous careers that would be lost due to graduation, including kicker, Jeremiah Detmer. The Hilliard, Ohio native finished his career as the Mid-American Conference's all-time leader in accuracy after finishing his career with nearly an 85% field goal percentage. Detmer would set the bar for not only Mid-American Conference kickers, but college football kickers as a whole before his graduation in 2014.

Jameson Vest has stepped up for the Toledo Rockets in his
first collegiate season.

So how would Toledo replace the production that Detmer provided for four seasons? The answer was Jameson Vest, a recruit in the 2015 class out of Peachtree City, Georgia. Obviously, replacing someone that had been in discussion for a Lou Groza award for nation's best kicker isn't easy, but for a true-freshman to come in, it would be nearly impossible.

"Jeremiah gave me big shoes to fill," Vest stated, "He set the standard for kickers at Toledo and it really made me determined to get better and become the standard myself."

Prior to the 2015 season kicking off, a lot of questions for head coach, Matt Campbell, were about special teams. It was obvious that even the Toledo coaching staff had many questions to answer themselves in terms of the kicking void left by Detmer. However, in fall camp, Vest dominated, winning the job over sophomore, Sam Vucelich. 

"I came in cocky about my abilities and thought I was better than I really was," admitted Vest, "Looking back, I'm very fortunate to have gotten the opportunity to start."

After earning the job, the first game of the season had arrived against Stony Brook. Ultimately, Vest would get an opportunity early in the first half on a 33-yard attempt. Good snap, good hold, and it split the uprights for three points, resulting in the first points of Vest's young career. The road to replacing Toledo legend, Jeremiah Detmer was underway, or so we thought. After a heavy downpour and thunderstorms throughout the first half, the game would be cancelled at halftime following nearly three hours of storm delay. All statistics from the game were scratched, as was the score, and just like that, Vest was once again looking for the first points of his career.

Vest has shined in the spotlight of big games in 2015.

The following week, Toledo made the journey to Little Rock, Arkansas to face the Arkansas Razorbacks at War Memorial Stadium in the heart of the state. In front of a sellout crowd of 55,000 people, Vest lined up for a short field goal of nearly thirty yards. Unfortunately, 6'10" Arkansas offensive lineman, Dan Skipper, would get a hand on the kick. The first attempt of Vest's career was blocked. A short moment later, Toledo head coach, Matt Campbell would send Vest out to attempt another, this time from nearly forty yards in a hostile environment and it was to take the lead. The Georgia native would leave no doubt about it, his first points in a Toledo uniform were recorded and he put Toledo ahead of the Hogs, where the Rockets wouldn't look back, notching the upset and biggest win in school history, 16-12.

"The first kick was crazy, I never realized how loud SEC country was until I was on the field. That second kick was all business, I didn't even notice the crowd when I went out. I told myself I was making this one to take the lead," Vest stated.

Not a bad "first game" for an eighteen year old kid, a clutch go-ahead kick against a SEC opponent and a national spotlight after an upset victory.

Former Toledo kicker, Jeremiah Detmer set the standard
with an 85% career field goal percentage.

A week later, against another Power 5 opponent in Iowa State, Vest would continue to make a name for himself. Late into the second half, Vest would hit a game-tying field goal to make it 23-23 and ultimately send the game into overtime, where Toledo would win the game, 30-23.

Since the opening weeks, Vest has continued to impress and fill the shoes of Jeremiah Detmer rather smoothly for a true freshman. Vest would finish the 2015 season with a conference high 18 field goals for a 69-percent field goal percentage. The eight field goals missed by Vest throughout the season, ultimately cost him a chance at making an All-MAC team.

"It's very humbling," Vest said on not making All-Conference, "I knew in the back of my mind that it wasn't a great season missing eight kicks. The fact that the MAC knew it too just made it easier to realize that I want to dedicate the off-season to getting better."

Aside from the field goal percentage, Vest also led the Mid-American Conference in scoring per game, accounting for an average of just over nine points per contest, in the same category as the most explosive runningbacks and wide outs in the conference.

Although Vest was not recognized as All-MAC for his incredible efforts throughout the season, his teammates, coaches, and predecessor have certainly taken notice.

"He's impressive," stated Jeremiah Detmer, who still has a relationship with Vest, even after his graduation, "For a true freshman to come in to a program and transition as well as he has, it's remarkable. He's made big time plays and has stepped up for his team. The most exciting part about his season is that he has three more to improve!"

Jeremiah Detmer set the standard at Toledo and in the Mid-American Conference but true freshman, Jameson Vest has entered the Glass City and has exceeded expectations. A conference-high eighteen field goals in 2015 will place a bright spotlight on the Georgia native over his next three seasons in Northwest Ohio.

Questions? Comments? Interact with Zach on Twitter: @ToledoZach

A Way Too Early Look Into Toledo's 2016 Expectations

JASON CANDLE UNDERSTANDS THE LOFTY EXPECTATIONS AT TOLEDO

By: Zach Harig -- December 4, 2015 
Yes, the year is 2015 and yes, Toledo still has a bowl game to play, which will be announced on Sunday. However, it's never too early to be looking ahead to next season, especially after the recent hire of former offensive coordinator, Jason Candle. The Candle hire has brought excitement back into the Toledo Football program, but with excitement, comes tremendous expectation.

"The expectations are high and the bar has been set," said new Toledo head coach, Jason Candle, "Nine wins is a tremendous season for anybody in the country, but for a Mid-American school to win nine games and two of those wins over Power-Five schools, that's elite company, so we want to continue that, we want to try to better that and we want to ultimately end up in Detroit playing for a championship."

So can they? The Rockets could have a few question marks in 2016. The first will be the inexperience of the head coach. Although new head coach, Jason Candle has spent seven years in Toledo, there are questions to be answered. Some have argued that Candle gets too fancy with the play-call and doesn't use his workhorses, Kareem Hunt and Terry Swanson enough in the ground game. However, players simply love the Jason Candle hire. In the regard of the head coach, the fans don't matter, the alumni don't matter, the national media don't matter, it's about the players and the coaching staff buying in. A lot of times during the Matt Campbell era, we heard, "Trust in 'The Process'" which is the definition of what needs to happen in college football. In the world of college football, players love to play for younger coaches, which Candle, at age 36, is. Don't worry about the coaching inexperience, Candle will be a thunderous hire for the Rockets.

New Toledo head coach, Jason
Candle understands expectations.

The next question in 2016 will be the lack of returnees on defense. Toledo will lose defensive leaders, Trent Voss, Keenan Gibbs, Tre James, Allen Covington, Orion Jones, Chase Murdock, Cheatham Norrils, Chris Dukes, Chaz Whittaker, Rolan Milligan, and Juwan Haynes, who all saw regular action in 2015. A huge development in the Jason Candle hire for the Rockets was retaining defensive coordinator, Jon Heacock, who is staying in Toledo to become a part of the new staff, which is crucial. Heacock's defense has looked completely changed in 2015 after a dismal season a year ago. The 'multiple defense' look on the defensive side of the ball has given Toledo the ability to sub players in and out and due to the incredible depth on the defensive side of the ball, the Rockets have featured the top scoring defense in the Mid-American Conference. But this depth won't be returning in 2016.

Jon Heacock will certainly have his hands full in 2016 on the defensive side of the ball. Without the graduated leaders next season, guys like DeJuan Rogers, Treyvon Hester, Marquise Moore, and Jaylen Coleman will truly need to step up. The front seven should be solid once again next season behind Hester and Moore's elite strength and run stopping ability. Toledo was second in the MAC in the regular season in terms of run defense, look for that to continue once again in 2016. Jaylen Coleman was also lost mid-season in 2015 due to a broken leg, hopefully he can bounce back to once again be a major force in the MAC. As far as the secondary, Toledo will feature a similar secondary to the 2014 season, which was highlighted by then true-freshman, Trevon Mathis, who had some growing pains but ultimately played well in his first season of college football. Next season, Mathis, Jordan Martin, and Josh Teachey will need to step up in a big way as far as the true-corners are concerned for the Rockets. Guys like Connery Swift and Delando Johnson will also be important contributors in nickel and dime packages, especially since Jon Heacock loves to use his substitutions.

Guys like Keenan Gibbs have provided
Toledo with a lot of depth in 2015.

The pass defense could struggle in 2016, which is typical in the Mid-American Conference. The good news behind the pass defense is that two of the best quarterbacks in the MAC, Matt Johnson of Bowling Green and Blake Frohnapfel of UMass (who isn't in the MAC in 2016), are now graduating.
Other than that, Toledo will need to use odd blitz packages off of the edge, perhaps with guys like Swift and Johnson from their nickel and dime positions.

On the offensive side of the ball, Jason Candle won't miss a beat. Right now, quarterback Phillip Ely is petitioning for a sixth season with a medical redshirt, after missing nearly all of 2014 due to injury. If it is declined by the NCAA, which isn't likely to happen, quarterback Logan Woodside would assume the position over Michael Julian and redshirt-freshman, Mitch Guadagni, who has an extremely bright future with the Rockets down the road. Woodside, a soon-to-be senior out of Frankfort, Kentucky, had a solid season in 2014 ultimately ranking fourth in the MAC in passing efficiency and throwing for 2,272 yards and 19 touchdowns. Aside from being offensive coordinator, Jason Candle has also been quarterbacks coach for the past two seasons with the Rockets, so he understands the core nucleus of signal callers. The passing game, whether it be Ely or Woodside next season, should be decent, even without top wide receiver, Alonzo Russell, who will be graduated. Guys like Cody Thompson, and soon-to-be senior Corey Jones, will be the main targets in 2016 and wide outs Jon'Vea and Diontae Johnson will also be assets as well as tight end, Michael Roberts.

Trevon Mathis, pictured here with Matt Campbell, will be
relied upon greatly in 2016.

Roberts, a 6'4", 265-pound weapon for the Rockets should have a breakout senior season in 2016. This season, just eighteen catches for 188 yards and four touchdowns for Roberts, but they all seemed to come in the clutch and big-time moments. Next year, he'll be even a bigger redzone target with Alonzo Russell.

The running game will be interesting, but not necessarily in a bad way. Running back Kareem Hunt, a current junior and soon-to-be senior, could dart for the NFL draft due to his current mid-round projection. Currently, NFL Draft Scout has Hunt listed as the ninth best draft eligible back, out of 213. Aside from Hunt, current sophomore Terry Swanson will carry the load along with soon-to-be senior Damion Jones-Moore. Swanson has been a workhorse but has been overshadowed by Hunt in several instances. If Hunt leaves to play on Sunday's, look for the runningback not to miss a beat, though it is nice to have that one-two punch between physicality and speed in Hunt and Swanson. Younger backs like Art Thompkins could also see a lot of action in 2016, especially if they miss Hunt's presence.

Perhaps the biggest loss in the Matt Campbell departure was offensive line coach, Tom Manning, who is arguably the best in the entire country. Over the past two years, Manning's offensive lines had allowed just three sacks, even after replacing all five starters this season. In 2016, the Rockets will return all but Ruben Carter, their center and a Florida State transfer. Guys like Mike Ebert and obviously, big Storm Norton, will be extremely solid and depended on.

Behind Kareem Hunt, if he returns, Toledo will have another
lethal ground game.

Overall, the 2016 season should be one of well-deserved expectation. The Rockets will be solid and despite the loss of an extremely capable senior class and coaching staff, Jason Candle will right the ship. The Toledo offense will be electric once again behind their offensive line and guys like Cody Thompson, Corey Jones, and potentially Kareem Hunt, if he returns. Toledo will open the season at Arkansas State on September 3rd and will also play out of conference against Maine and Fresno State at home and then on the road at BYU on September 30.

Athletic Director Mike O'Brien also knows that a lot of pressure will be placed on his first-year head coach next season, "It's hard to say what kind of season we'll have next year, but I know they're going to play really hard behind Coach Candle and he will rally the troops. I can't give you a one-loss prediction but it's going to be a great year behind his (Coach Candle's) leadership."

For myself, it's hard not to expect a nine win season. The out-of-conference schedule is a bit easier than it has been in years past. In fact, Toledo should expect a 3-1 season in the non-conference. As far as for the MAC schedule, which isn't out yet, there will be a lot of coaching changes if Dino Babers bolts from Bowling Green and potentially P.J. Fleck at Western Michigan. Toledo may not be the preseason favorite to win the MAC, but they will compete in the MAC West. Next year's senior class will step up and be leaders, especially behind the new coaching staff and the understanding of culture and tradition at Toledo. I expect a 9-3 season next year with a strong offensive line and running game. As usual, no matter who the offensive coordinator is, Jason Candle will run a balanced offense. Expect potential losses to BYU on the road, which is an extremely tough place to play, and then potentially losses to either Arkansas State on the road, Western Michigan on the road, or even a team like Bowling Green or Central Michigan at home. We won't even mention those Huskies in DeKalb.

Thoughts? Comments? Interact on Twitter: @ToledoZach

Recruiting Wars: Iowa State vs. Toledo

New Toledo head coach, Jason
Candle.

CAMPBELL VS. CANDLE -- THE WAR HAS BEGUN

By: Zach Harig -- December 2, 2015

After Iowa State prevailed to defeat Toledo, 37-30, in 2014, Toledo returned the favor with a 30-23 overtime victory against the Cyclones in 2015. In a rubber match of sorts, the two teams now get to battle it out on the recruiting trail. Yes, I'm trying to tell you that two schools that are nine hours apart, will compete in recruiting, and we all know why. Now that Matt Campbell is officially an Iowa State Cyclone, he is destroying his own legacy at The University of Toledo by stealing players he recruited away from his former school.

In the 2016 recruiting class, Toledo originally had 22 commits, that is before the Campbell departure. Almost immediately, Toledo received decommitments from cornerback Jatairis Grant of Akron, Ohio. The reason? Matt Campbell and the Cyclones came calling with an offer and an official visit, which will be taken on December 4 by Grant. When asked about Iowa State, Grant stated, "Coach Campbell hasn't told me much yet, I plan on seeing how it is when I get down there. I don't have a top three yet, Toledo and ISU are my only two."

New Toledo head coach, Jason Candle played with Matt
Campbell at Mount Union, now they're recruiting foes.

Aside from Grant, Toledo lost a commitment from Columbus, Ohio Athlete, Tyrece Speaight. Speaight, a three-star by several agencies, has been heating up on the recruiting trail and has received interest from several MAC schools as well as, wait for it, yes, Iowa State. After a December 1 decommitment, Speaight has since been tweeting a lot about Toledo, especially after today's hiring of Jason Candle as their head football coach. In fact, one current Toledo commit told me, "I'm 100% sure we will get Tyrece's commitment back." There is no word on an official visit or any offers from Iowa State for Speaight.

Another recruit who was highly considering Toledo and is still is to an extent, is Traver Vliem, a defensive end out of Midland, Texas. Vliem, a 6'3", 240-pound athletic freak coming off of the edge now holds 20 offers, but one of his favorites is Toledo. However, Matt Campbell and his staff are already working on perhaps swaying him to Ames. "Coach John Kuceyeski (part of Campbell's new Iowa State staff) called me and said I was on a short list of guys they'd be looking at and they'd have Campbell reach out to me in the next couple of days," Vliem stated. He also stated it's a possibility that he will take an official visit to Iowa State.

Matt Campbell and his staff at Iowa State
have officially began their recruiting efforts.

From there, we advance to Jalen Martin, perhaps the biggest commit for Toledo in the 2016 class. That is, until Martin was given something to consider. Matt Campbell extended an offer to Martin, a Harper Woods, Michigan product, just hours after being introduced as Iowa State's new head football coach. Now, Martin is expected to take an official visit to Ames, "sometime in the next few weeks," according to his father, Gregory, who also added that "Jason Candle is a great hire for the Rockets." The 6'3", 200-pound Martin is a strong handed and high IQ football player who is an underrated three-star in the class. Iowa State will strongly push for his services before signing day and don't be surprised if new Toledo head coach, Jason Candle can't convince him to stay in the Glass City.

Someone that Toledo is losing extreme ground on is three-star defensive end/outside linebacker, Jalen Cochran out of Canton, Michigan. Cochran, a 6'3", 235-pound beast, was strongly considering Toledo and called them, "my number one school," in early November before Matt Campbell's departure. After Campbell accepted the job in Ames, Cochran immediately received an offer from the Cyclones. Following that moment, Iowa State shot up Cochran's list and become his new number one, "I believe I'm having an in-home visit with Iowa State on Thursday," he added. As far as Toledo goes, "I think Jason Candle was a great hire for Toledo, but I don't really know him since he is an offensive guy and I can't really consider them until they hire a full staff." Ouch.

In the Class of 2017, looking ahead, Matt Campbell already took a leap. Iowa State received a commitment from 2017 quarterback, Devon Moore, a 6'4", 215-pound pro-style gun-slinger out of Waterloo, Iowa. Moore held three offers before committing from Toledo, Illinois State, and obviously, the Cylcones.

2016 Toledo tight end commit, Nate Swart is a
"True Rocket" and is devout to his commitment.

Despite losing several commits as of late, Toledo does have a solid core still committed. Three-star runningback, Shakif Seymour of Parma Heights, Ohio stated he's, "All in on Toledo." Aside from that, Pennsylvania product and Toledo commit at tight end, Nate Swart also stated, "Why commit when you know another offer will just make you decommit? I committed to Toledo months ago and nothing has changed, I'm going to school there in the fall."

As for as for Coach Jason Candle, he spoke at his press conference, and to myself, about his recruiting war with Coach Campbell: "Well we have to work diligently and get our plan together and make sure the kids that have made the decision to come to The University of Toledo still come to The University of Toledo. And we'll work really hard to do that. Ultimately, at the end of the day, you can't make decisions for kids, that's their prerogative and what they want to do. But our job is to present the information to why UT is a great fit for you and why you can be successful here, we're going to mold you to be a great young man and make sure you take your academics seriously and give you a chance to play great football and if that's what you want to do, I want you to be here. I'm not interested in guys that are coming here for other reasons other than the ones that are real," said Candle. He then joked that his first night of sleep may not come until July.

For new Toledo head coach, Jason Candle, it's a challenge to keep this recruiting class together, especially when he predecessor is now working against him. However, this was the wisest hire that Athletic Director, Mike O'Brien could have made for Toledo due to Candle's familiarity of the culture, tradition, and recruiting. Candle was one of Campbell's best recruiters on his staff and was actually voted one of the, "Best non-Power 5 recruiters" by Rivals a few years ago. Candle will be a tremendous recruiter and should do a great job keeping this class in tact for the most part.

You can view my interview with Coach Candle following his press conference by clicking HERE.

I'll keep you posted on the rest of the news via Twitter: @ToledoZach

Jason Candle to Become Toledo's Next Head Coach

What a turn of events for the Toledo Rockets over the past few days. On Saturday night, head coach Matt Campbell accepted the Iowa State head coaching job, just a day after the Rockets were rumored for a potential BCS Bowl (before losing to Western Michigan). Then, a photo gets tweeted out in the Iowa State WAR room in Ames, Iowa featuring Matt Campbell and several other former Toledo coaches, including offensive coordinator, Jason Candle. In another change of events, rumors struck on Wednesday afternoon that Candle is now becoming the next head coach of the Toledo Rockets.

Former offensive coordinator, Jason Candle will be introduced
as Toledo's next head coach at 4:30 pm on Wednesday.

Candle, a 36-year old offensive genius, began his coaching career at his alma-mater, Mount Union with Matt Campbell. After coaching receivers from 2003-2006, he became the offensive coordinator for the 2007-08 season until ending up in Toledo. At Toledo, Candle began as the tight ends and slot receivers coach in 2009 but eventually took over as offensive coordinator for Matt Campbell in 2012, turning the Rocket offense into a balanced powerhouse. Now, Candle is expected to accept the Toledo coaching job and be introduced to the media at 4:30 pm on Wednesday.


Originally, many thought Toledo was going outside of the current staff to hire a head coach. Especially after Campbell cleaned house as far as the Rockets former coaching staff was concerned, taking them all to Iowa State aside from defensive coordinator Jon Heacock and runningbacks coach, Anthony Johnson.

Jason Candle has turned Toledo's offense into a balanced
powerhouse.

Candle could be introduced at the Toledo men's basketball game on Wednesday night at Savage Arena. The hire is incredibly smart due to Candle's tremendous reputation as a recruiter and a long-time Toledo assistant under Campbell. Following Campbell's departure, Toledo players overwhelmingly vouched for Candle to become their next head coach. After the vacancy, Athletic Director Mike O'Brien announced he would be hiring a search firm to conduct a national search. Now, just days later, that won't be needed. Matt Campbell has begun to recruit his former Toledo commits, now to Iowa State, and Jason Candle can now put a stop to that bleeding. It won't be easy to convince current Rocket commits in the 2016 class to stay, but Candle has the ability to do so, since he recruited many of the current commits anyway.


I'll keep you posted on the latest via Twitter: @ToledoZach

The Craziest 24 Hours in Toledo Football History -- Matt Campbell to Iowa State

MATT CAMPBELL ACCEPTS OFFER TO BECOME THE NEXT HEAD COACH AT... IOWA STATE? 

Now former Toledo head coach,
Matt Campbell.

By: Zach Harig -- November 29, 2015

What a 24 hours for the Toledo Football program. It wasn't a secret, Toledo head coach, Matt Campbell was going to be a highly sought after commodity for top-tier football programs around the country. Programs such as Missouri, South Carolina, Southern California, and Virginia Tech were among the many seeking replacements for a head football coach. No matter what job it was, Matt Campbell's name seemed to surface frequently. However, following a 35-30 loss to Western Michigan on Friday, Campbell seemed to put all of those rumors to rest with one simple response after being asked about the Missouri coaching vacancy:

"It's really easy: I haven't talked to anybody. I have zero interest in terms of anything other than this football team and being its head football coach. That's always been my stand on that. This is really important to me, and doing it the right way and getting it to where it needs to be is important to me."

Refreshing to say the least, right? According to a source that was inside the Toledo locker room following Friday's loss, Campbell addressed the team, stating the exact same thing as he did in the press conference. Campbell stood in front of the team, told them he was going to be back and how he didn't have interest in other jobs. Well, mid-day Saturday, the Missouri rumors once again flared up, stating that Campbell would be interviewed to replace former head coach, Gary Pinkel. From there, a school that nobody expected to be affiliated with Matt Campbell's name appeared. Iowa State. Yes, the mighty Cyclones of Iowa State, a Big 12 bottom-feeder for the past one hundred years. At first, Toledo fans were laughing at the thought of Campbell even considering Iowa State. After all, the Rockets defeated the lowly Cyclones, 30-23 in overtime back on September 19. Slowly but surely, those rumors began to take off. In fact, Sports Illustrated actually reported late Saturday evening that a deal was in place for Campbell to become the new head man at Iowa State and an announcement was imminent.

Following the news, Toledo Athletic Director Mike O'Brien, "fought like hell," to retain Campbell by offering him a contract extension which would have made him the highest paid coach in the Mid-American Conference, over P.J. Fleck of Western Michigan, who makes nearly $800,000 per year. In fact, Campbell's extension was rumored to be in the ballpark of a million-dollars a year. After apparently mulling the offers over for several hours, Campbell made his decision just after midnight on Sunday morning.

Quickly, the social media world was overwhelmed by news that broke at 12:27 AM by Toledo Blade writer, Nick Piotrowicz via Twitter -- Campbell was leaving for Iowa State. The tweet spread and was backed up by Iowa State journalists confirming the report before ESPN and Bleacher Report jumped in as well. Following the news, Toledo fans were left shaking their head. Sure, Campbell was a hot commodity, but Iowa State?

As illustrated, Campbell was a big candidate for schools such as Missouri as well, which would have been a much better job, especially in the SEC. However, there was no guarantee there would be an offer sent Campbell's way, as the Tigers began to weigh their options. For Iowa State and their Athletic Director, Jamie Pollard, they knew who they wanted and they had only one true candidate, it was Matt Campbell. Rather than wait and be passed over, Campbell jumped at the offer. Campbell and Iowa State reportedly met on Friday evening after Pollard flew into Detroit Metro Airport. And yes, for those wondering, Pollard is the same AD that gave former Cyclone head coach, Paul Rhoads, a ten-year contract extension following the 2011 season, which would lead to Rhoads ultimately leading the Cyclone to an 11-26 overall mark in three seasons following, leading to his firing. What's to lose for Campbell? Who will have extreme job security since Iowa State is used to being at the bottom of the Big 12. It's a patient work in progress out in Ames, Iowa, where by the way, Campbell will be at least tripling his salary.

The confusion, shock, and utter disbelief of Rocket Nation was evident on social media early Sunday morning following the news being confirmed. Some Toledo players, both past and present, took to Twitter to voice their opinions towards Campbell's departure.

Junior defensive end, John Stepec.

True freshman kicker, Jameson Vest.

Redshirt-freshman safety, Marcus Whitfield.

True freshman offensive lineman, Cameron Bell.

True freshman quarterback, Mitch Guadagni.

True freshman defensive lineman, Nate Childress.

Former Toledo center and current
Houston Texan, Greg Mancz.

"...Doing it the right way and getting it to where it needs to be is important to me," Campbell stated in his post-game press conference as far as how he wants to build the Toledo program. After those words were said, it appears a complete 180 has occurred since. In Campbell's defense, media can get in the way of plans to "do things the right way," but that has to be understood by coaches. It is likely that Campbell wanted to tell the team himself on Sunday or Monday during meetings, rather than having them find out via social media, but in the world of smart phones, situations like these get leaked more often than not. Therefore, players are crushed into a state of utter disbelief, uncertain of their own futures.

Toledo offensive coordinator and long-time friend of Matt
Campbell, Jason Candle, could be Toledo's next head coach.

So what now? Well, Iowa State is expected to introduce Campbell on Sunday or Monday afternoon, with conflicting reports. The Toledo coaching staff and players will remain in the dark until Campbell addresses them which will likely come Sunday afternoon or evening. As far as a coaching staff, reports are that offensive line coach, Tom Manning will be tagging along with Campbell to become a part of his staff in Ames. The real question is whether offensive coordinator, Jason Candle stays at Toledo to likely become the next head coach or does he become a part of the new staff as well? At running backs, it will be interesting. Former Toledo running backs coach, Lou Ayeni was on the Paul Rhoads staff that was let go at season's end, but rumors are Campbell will retain Ayeni for his staff at Iowa State. Ultimately, if that is the case, current Toledo running backs coach, Anthony Johnson will most likely stick around in the Glass City as well.

Although it's hard to believe, now that Campbell is gone, Toledo will immediately look to fill their coaching vacancy. The best case scenario is for the Rockets to look internally with either offensive coordinator, Jason Candle or defensive coordinator, Jon Heacock. Candle has repeatedly been named a top-ten assistant in all the entire FBS for both his recruiting efforts and play on the field and has been with the Rockets for five full seasons now. Heacock, in turn, has been around for decades and has been a coordinator in the Big Ten at Purdue as well. The Toledo defense has improved drastically under Heacock, who is the more experienced candidate, although only in his second season at Toledo this go around after returning from his graduate assistant days. However, you can't rule out both of those guys following Campbell to Ames and leaving Larimer Athletic Complex entirely empty.

Money talks, as evident with Matt Campbell eating his words
just one day later and leaving for Iowa State.

Truthfully, the Mid-American Conference will always be a coaching hot bed. Coaches don't have success like Campbell did, going 35-15 overall, just to stick around and continue playing in the MAC. Ever since the days of Nick Saban, Gary Pinkel, Urban Meyer, and even coaches prior to that, MAC coaches have been propelled to bigger jobs. Despite a major pay raise and contract extension offer from Toledo, Campbell accepted the deal to head to the Big 12. Iowa State will need to buyout Campbell's contract for a small fee of $200,000 and although the terms of the deal are not yet being released, the contract is reportedly nearly three to four-times the amount that Campbell was making per year, which was around $500,000.

Right or wrong, money speaks, that's just the world we live in. Maybe Campbell wasn't expecting to bounce out of Northwest Ohio this season, but with the money, connections, and bigger conference, anything can happen. One thing is for certain, the Toledo players are extremely hurt and in a tough place as of Sunday morning. The longer Toledo Athletic Director, Mike O'Brien prolongs a coaching search, the worse, especially when it comes to the 2016 recruiting class, which is one of the best Toledo has ever had. A lot of times when coaches leave, recruits like to decommit, so it'll be something to keep an eye on.

In Ames, Iowa, Campbell will have his work cut out for him. Since 1995, three Iowa State coaches have combined for a 90-141 overall record. Aside from this, the Cyclones have not had a winning season since 2009. Rocket fans that were awake when the news broke remain in a state of shock, while those that were asleep, are in for hell when they open their eyes in the morning.





'The Glass City Sports Report' will be live from 8-10 pm on Sunday, November 29th on 88.3 FM - WXUT in Toledo & will have all reaction from the Matt Campbell saga, including calls from Iowa State and Toledo journalists that broke the story. Tune in or stream the show live by clicking HERE.

Questions? Comments? Interact with Zach on Twitter: @ToledoZach

The Developed Rivalry Between Northern Illinois & Toledo

Rivalries all have one thing in common: hatred, angst, and history. While Northern Illinois and Toledo may not be exactly the first rivalry to come to mind when you heard the word, the teams are developing a history. Although the all-time series is in Toledo's favor, 29-14, both teams have had their moments throughout. From 1990-2004, Toledo dominated the Huskies, winning eleven straight contests and eventually winning the Mid-American Conference Championship under Bruce Gradkowski in 2004. Since then, Northern Illinois has won eight of the past eleven meetings. A lot of times in rivalries, there will be stretches of domination, these teams certainly have that going both ways.

Despite being hard to make out, a dry-erase
board on the NIU sidelines seasons ago featured:
"Tuck Foledo."

For years now, Northern Illinois fans have hated Toledo. A lot of fans, especially outside of the MAC and outside of DeKalb, Illinois may ask why. The reason is due to the implications the series has had on the MAC West division. For the past decade, the match-up has almost always decided who would represent the west division in the championship game. Therefore, the hatred has begun to burn deep between the two fan bases. In fact, Northern Illinois had a sign placed in their locker room in 2013 that stated, 'Tuck Foledo,' it doesn't take a genius to figure that one out.

While the programs have tremendous respect for one another, there isn't much respect on the playing surface, especially among former and current players.

An article on Huskie Wire, a website devoted to Northern Illinois athletics, posted an article in 2010 in which several current players at the time featured their hatred for the Rockets.

"I have a strong dislike for Toledo," former defensive end, Jake Coffman, stated. Former Northern Illinois assistant coach and former interim head coach, Tom Matukewicz, was reportedly extremely bitter towards the Huskies after they defeated the Rockets in 2012 and 2013, following Coach 'Tuke's' departure to become the defensive coordinator at Toledo in 2012.

Bill Baker, who has been the broadcaster for Northern Illinois for over thirty years, also had interesting words, "I'm sure we feel it's a rivalry," Baker was quoted, "But they couldn't care less about us because they've handed it to us over the years." Again, keep in mind this article was posted in 2010, before the Huskies' six-game winning streak.

Northern Illinois broadcaster, Bill Baker, a Hall of Fame
commentator who has been around the match-up for decades.

Let's talk about Mr. Bill Baker, the Hall of Fame broadcaster of the Northern Illinois Huskies. The 2015 match-up between the Huskies and Rockets was obviously extremely intriguing. The Rockets came in undefeated at 7-0 and ranked No. 20 in the country. Broadcasting for WXUT, The University of Toledo's student radio station, we are always posted up next to the visiting team's flagship radio station, or the big-wigs, as we call them. On occasion, especially during commercial break, we can hear those broadcasters on the other side of the glass and their call. Well, following a game closing interception by Northern Illinois to put a cap on a 32-27 win over Toledo at The Glass Bowl, Baker went on to go bananas. In fact, Baker looked at us, the student radio, pointing and shouting: "GOODBYE TOLEDO! GOODBYE TOLEDO! GOODBYE TOLEDO!" Over and over again. Very rarely have we, the student broadcasters for the university, had a bad experience with visiting broadcasters. If nothing else, we're usually at awe of how nice and down-to-earth the commentators are with us. However, Baker showed extreme disrespect, as if the MAC Championship was already won by the Huskies with their win over the Rockets. While I'm not complaining, it's interesting to see Baker's perspective in which is obviously a rivalry to someone who has been such a big part of the meeting.

Northern Illinois marked one of the biggest wins in
program history in The Glass Bowl.
Photo Courtesy: WHIO 

Aside from Baker's call and feelings towards Toledo, I host a sports radio show on WXUT on Sunday nights. Therefore, I wanted to have a Northern Illinois football writer call in to talk about the Huskies and preview the match-up. After reaching out to four different writers, both at different newspapers, and college students, I never received responses. Once again, not a complaint, but bringing awareness to the feelings of Huskie fans and media toward Toledo.

As illustrated, the Northern Illinois students, players, and even media members feel strongly towards Toledo. In fact, several media members that made the haul from Toledo to DeKalb for the meeting between the teams in 2014 reported being treated not poorly, but uniquely, is the way to put it, by the media members in Illinois. Just another fact to backup the rivalry talk, even in the press box.

Obviously, Bowling Green will also be Toledo's biggest rival due to the proximity of the campuses, and being just 25 miles away. However, Bowling Green is in the MAC East, the opposite division of the Rockets. Therefore, the game is important, but doesn't serve up the national attention that Northern Illinois and Toledo have begun to show over the past decade. The saying is that the MAC West runs through DeKalb, Illinois and without a doubt, it does. The Huskies have won the Mid-American Conference a number of times over the past several years, including in 2014.


If you're up for some fun, or bitterness if you're a diehard Toledo fan, search 'Tuck Foledo' on Twitter and enjoy. This phrase and hashtag was going crazy following Northern Illinois' sixth straight win on Nov. 3 against the Rockets. In fact, Northern Illinois freshman long-snapper, Hayden Sak took to Twitter following the victory with a picture of the Husky locker room, featuring the famous hashtag.


To Northern Illinois, their match-up with Toledo has always been seen as a rivalry. However, Rocket fans are beginning to respect the Huskies after the series has tightened up over the past decade. By the way, Northern Illinois head coach, Rod Carey remains undefeated against the Rockets as Toledo head coach Matt Campbell, fell to 0-4 as head coach of the Rockets against their new second rival.

Former Northern Illinois head coach, Jerry Kill, who recently retired from Minnesota due to health concerns, also expressed the importance of the Toledo game with NIU fans: "You're darn right the Toledo game is important to Huskie Nation, there's no doubt about that," Kill was quoted in the Huskie Wire article.

I'll leave you with this via Twitter.

Toledo, it's time to wake up. Yes, Bowling Green is important and is obviously a big rival, but start to pay attention to Northern Illinois. Anytime you logon to a Mid-American Conference blog or website, there's a chatroom containing Huskie fans bashing the Rockets and their team or fans, yet not much fight in return from Toledo. Northern Illinois has always featured deep hatred for the Rockets, and now, due to the six game losing streak and recent prominence of the two programs, it's time to return the favor. The Nov. 3 match-up was a start, due to the 23,000-plus in attendance on a Tuesday night, which shows how important the game was to Toledo fans, but it needs to continue.

Isn't MACtion fun? Rivalries are beginning to grow.



Questions? Comments? Contact Zach on Twitter by clicking here: @ToledoZach

Toledo Attempts to Overcome Northern Illinois

THIS IS A RIVALRY

Ah, Midweek MACtion. Sure, the nation loves to turn on their televisions and see midweek football games, but for the Toledo Rockets, Tuesday night has a whole other meaning. For one week a season, Toledo's rivalry with Bowling Green takes a backseat. Why? Because they take on Northern Illinois.

Toledo head coach, Matt Campbell has been
unable to get passed NIU in his tenure at UT.

For the past five seasons, Toledo has had excitement around their football program. They've had star players, dynamic offenses, and sometimes even national attention. However, each and every year, the Rockets have had their MAC Championship hopes and national spotlight taken by the Huskies. In 2010, the Rockets fell 65-30 in a high scoring MAC showdown. A year later, the Rockets would fall 63-60 to the eventual Mid-American Conference champions. In 2012, it was a 31-24 decision in Northern's favor and a close game until a Kareem Hunt jump pass interception led to a 35-17 win for the Huskies in 2013. Last season, it was Toledo wide receiver, Dwight Macon stepping in to play quarterback due to injuries, where the Huskies would prevail, 27-24.

This season is potentially the most hyped up match-up between Northern Illinois and Toledo in the past decade. Formerly, it was Northern Illinois going into the game with a number next to their name, with the national attention and the Heisman candidate quarterback, Jordan Lynch. However, Toledo, now No. 20 in the country, is receiving the national exposure, especially featuring their Top-15 defense in the entire nation, allowing just 16.3 points per game thus far.

To put things in perspective, in the past six seasons, Toledo is 36-8 overall in the Mid-American Conference. Yet, five of those eight losses have come to none other than the Northern Illinois Huskies. For the Rockets, the season hangs in the balance on Tuesday night. A loss would certainly make the month of November a lot tougher due to the nature of the MAC West.

The Huskies will enter the Glass Bowl on Tuesday night with a 5-3 overall record after losses to Ohio State and Boston College, along with Central Michigan, giving them a 3-1 conference record. Toledo, obviously a perfect 7-0 and 4-0 in the MAC thus far this season, would still have a major chance to make it to Ford Field on December 5 for the conference championship game, but it would make the November 17 match-up at Bowling Green and the November 27 match-up at home against Western Michigan, must wins.

KEYS TO THE GAME:

Toledo leads the all-time series with Northern Illinois, 29-13 overall, but as illustrated, the past few years have been rough. However, this season could be drastically different.

1) HOT START - Toledo must get off to a hot start. Despite outscoring opponents 73-0 so far in third quarters this season, it is a must to play well out of the gate. Last week, Toledo trailed UMass on the road, 28-10. Despite coming back to defeat the Minutemen, 51-35, the Rockets played terribly in the first half, which can't happen against a solid and discipline team in Northern Illinois. If Toledo is down at the half, even by a touchdown, it could be tough to comeback, even in the third quarter.

Northern Illinois runningback, Joel Bouagnon will
be a load for the Rocket defense to stop on Tuesday.
Photo Courtesy: Eleven Warriors

2) STOP THE RUN - Toledo's run defense has been incredible all season long. Teams like Arkansas, Kent State, and Ball State, all depended on the run against the Rockets and were all majorly disappointed in the result due to the Rockets' veteran front-seven. Northern Illinois features runningback Joel Bouagnon, who leads the MAC in rushing with 14 touchdowns along with 863 total yards already this season, averaging over 100 yards per contest.

It is crucial for Matt Campbell and the Rocket defense to at least slow down Bouagnon before the play action pass gets rolling for head coach Rod Carey and the Huskies.

Toledo quarterback, Phillip Ely has to get back on track against
Northern Illinois on Tuesday.

3) WIN THE TURNOVER MARGIN - Turnovers. Turnovers. Turnovers. Every coach, no matter the level, wants to take care of the ball. Toledo senior quarterback, Phillip Ely has struggled as of late with interceptions, throwing three in the first half to a sub-par UMass defense. Against Northern Illinois, it will be interesting to watch the turnover margin due to the Huskies' defensive secondary and cornerback, Shawun Lurry, who leads the conference with seven interceptions thus far. Watch for Toledo to take of the ball, especially in tremendous weather. Despite the 8 pm start on November 3rd in Northwest Ohio, it should be nearly 60-degrees at kickoff, so weather won't be an excuse.

PREDICTION

Last week on Twitter, I predicted UMass to give Toledo a run for their money due to the passing nature of their offense. Therefore, my 52-35 Toledo prediction nearly came true as the Rockets pulled out the 51-35 victory.

At kickoff, the temperature should be nearly 60-degrees.
In Northwest Ohio. In November. Pack the Glass Bowl.

Tuesday night, something has to give. Northern Illinois loves to run the ball, Toledo loves to stop the run. Watch for the battle on the ground as well as, as illustrated, turnover margin in the ballgame. A crucial turnover could be the difference, or could it come down to a key special teams play? We've seen crazy endings with special teams lately in college football, so it wouldn't shock me. The past few seasons, Toledo has had some crucial injuries going into the game against Northern Illinois. This season, the Rockets, aside from linebacker Jaylen Coleman, are completely healthy. I'll take the Rockets to FINALLY break this five game losing streak, but it'll be a close one. Toledo is currently an eight point favorite from Las Vegas, but they don't truly respect the Huskies, who gave Ohio State a fight earlier in the season and quite honestly, should have won the game.

Northern Illinois 24 -- No. 20 Toledo 34

Questions? Comments? Interact with Zach on Twitter by clicking here: @ToledoZach

Toledo Looks to Add Another Target to 2016 Class

By: Zach Harig (@ToledoZach on Twitter)

TOLEDO IS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST FOR 2016 LINEBACKER JALEN COCHRAN

The 2016 recruiting class is off to a thunderous start for Matt Campbell and the Toledo Rockets. After receiving their nineteenth commitment on Wednesday from Harper Woods, Mich. wide receiver, Jalen Martin, the Rockets are looking to build a dynasty for the future. Despite the commitment from Martin and several other three-star recruits, Toledo isn't done yet.

The biggest uncommitted target for Toledo in the
2016 class is linebacker, Jalen Cochran.

Thus far in 2015, the Toledo Rockets have completely revamped their defense. After being one of the worst defenses in all of football in the 2014 season, Toledo came back and healthy and deep this season. Through seven games, the Rockets rank sixth in the country in total defense by allowing just over twelve points per game, on average. The secret to that success? Recruiting. Toledo has plugged in true-freshman cornerback, Josh Teachey, in several defensive schemes so far in 2015. Teachey, a Maryland product, was hardly recruited out of high school but fit the Toledo mold. Aside from Teachey, redshirt-freshman linebacker, Richard Olekanma is also playing several crucial minutes for the Rockets.

As illustrated, the Rocket defense utilizes substitutions and depth in order to succeed. In the 2016 recruiting class, a big name to watch out for is Canton, Mich. linebacker, Jalen Cochran. Cochran, a 6'4", 235-pound outside linebacker, is currently rated as the 22nd-best player in the state of Michigan by Rivals. Cochran has attracted large amounts of attention after a breakout junior season in 2014 where he recorded 53 tackles and three sacks. The Canton Chief has offers from Bowling Green, Buffalo, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Iowa, Miami (OH), Toledo, and Western Michigan.

Aside from the offers, Cochran has begun to receive interest from several 'Power Five' conferences. "I've been talking to Arizona and Illinois a lot lately," Cochran stated.

Despite the numerous offers and large amounts of interest, Cochran has fallen in love with Toledo. "Toledo is still my number one school," said Cochran, who was offered by Toledo just after his junior season, "I love the environment there, plus they offered me first, which means they saw something in me that nobody else did at the time. They took a chance on me and I love them for that," he continued, "I talk to them pretty much every day."

Cochran, a possibly underrated three-star, would be a huge
commit for Matt Campbell and Toledo.

Another reason for the Toledo love from Cochran, is due to the defensive scheme that the Rockets run with defensive coordinator, Jon Heacock. "The defensive scheme fits what I'm doing now in high school so that's another reason why they're my number one," he added.

A freak athlete, Cochran plays both sides of the ball for the Canton Chiefs' football program, "I usually play both sides of the ball," he stated, "Outside linebacker, defensive end, and tight end but due to my injury, I'm focusing on defense. I'm almost at 100% so wherever my coach wants me, I'll play. Some schools are looking at me as a tight end, but not a lot."

The reason nearly all schools see Cochran as an outside linebacker at the next level rather than a tight end is due to his natural pass-rushing ability along with his pass coverage ability.

"He's instinctive and he's a physical specimen," stated Jeff Corrion, the founder of The D Zone, which covers Michigan High School Football, "He's extremely good at pass coverage for someone his size at outside linebacker."

Aside from Corrion, who has watch Cochran and the Canton Chiefs numerous times over the years, those that see Cochran on film, know he has extreme skill.

"Jalen Cochran is a big, strong body coming off the edge," Eric Rutter, the college football recruiting analyst for 'Today's U', "He played both outside linebacker and on the line with his hand down. Cochran keeps his pad level low and is strong at the point of attack. On tape, Cochran is very disruptive in the backfield with his combination of pass rush moves and motor. He's another talented prospect, who I expect to collect a few Big Ten offers before the process is over."

As shown, if the Toledo Rockets could add the services of Jalen Cochran to the 2016 recruiting class, they would be set up at linebacker for the next several seasons. The ability to rush the passer combined with pass coverage skills makes Cochran the complete package. Although he is a high-end three-star recruit, Cochran could end up with a fourth star to his name before National Signing Day. Matt Campbell and the Rockets are going all-in on Cochran as one of the last big targets for their recruiting class. If Toledo can land a commitment from the Michigan-product, they'd be able to plug him in at linebacker right away due to the scheme fit on the defense and ability.

You can view Cochran's Hudl highlights by clicking here.

Follow Zach on Twitter to keep track of Jalen's recruitment.

Toledo Receives Commitment from 3-Star WR Jalen Martin

By: Zach Harig (@ToledoZach on Twitter)

2016 RECRUITING CLASS HEATING UP FOR THE TOLEDO ROCKETS

After an already monumental start to the 2016 recruiting class for Matt Campbell and the Toledo Rockets, they continue to make noise on the recruiting trail. On Wednesday, the Rockets received a verbal commitment from three-star wide receiver, Jalen Martin, of Harper Woods, Michigan. For the past two years, Martin has been a major target for the Rockets as they continue to mold their program, "Toledo has been heavily recruiting me for two years," Martin stated. 

"Toledo feels like home," Martin stated following his commitment to the Rockets, "It's a great fit for me and I've built an incredible relationship with the coaching staff there."

Jalen Martin is arguably the biggest
commit for Toledo in the 2016 class.

The 6'3", 200-pound wide out had offers from Akron, Bowling Green, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Miami (OH), and Western Michigan. Despite the impressive offers, the more impressive aspect to Martin is the interest he is attracting due to his performance at national camps.

"I've had interest from all Big Ten schools and I've taken unofficial visits to Indiana, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, and Ohio State this past summer," Martin added on his interest.

With that interest, there will always be questions about recruits decommitting and leaving for a bigger program once they come calling. For Martin, he's using tunnel vision after his commitment to play in the Glass City, "At this point, my focus right now is Toledo and I'm a Toledo Rocket. My full attention is on Toledo and I'm not even thinking about another school calling me, I'm focused," Martin continued.

Not only is Martin attracting major 'Power Five' conference attention, but scouts have begun to notice the abilities of the future Rocket as well, "Toledo landed a Big Ten caliber wide receiver," stated Eric Rutter, 'Today's U' college football recruiting analyst, "I've seen him around ten to twelve times in person, he's a tremendous athlete. He's a strong kid with good hands and has long striding speed. Finds separation at top of routes and is a big target. He also played tight end this year and can block, he'll be a good one."

The three-star Martin could be upgraded to a four-star before it's all said and done, especially after his performance at several summer camps. Allen Trieu of Scout.com listed Martin as one of the top performers at the 'Sound Mind Sound Body' camp in June, which took place in front of several Mid-American Conference coaches, including Toledo's Matt Campbell. A month later, in July, Michigan Preps also listed Martin as the second best uncommitted player in the state of Michigan.

"Martin is extremely underrated," Rutter stated following his commitment, "He's a high three-star but could be a low four-star in my estimation."

If Martin were to gain that fourth star, he would become the first four-star Toledo commit since defensive end Andre Sturdivant signed with the Rockets in the 2011 recruiting class, according to Rivals.

Martin, a three sport athlete in track and basketball, was also receiving major interest for his basketball talents. After averaging 25 points and 12 rebounds as a junior, it's easy to see why several top programs were after Martin. However, he says his focus is on football, "I don't plan on doing both sports in college, I'm only focused on football."

Jalen's father, Gregory, has been working with him ever since he was five years old as both a father, and a coach, "Jalen is the hardest working kid on the floor (and field), he plays with a passion for the game," his father stated. "Jalen is a three sport all-state honors athlete in football, basketball, and track along with a 3.5 GPA."

"Jalen is a workaholic," his father added, "He wants to do something every day seven days a week. From lifting, to conditioning, running routes, or getting shots up in the gym, he does something every day to get better."

Harper Woods, Mich. wide out, Jalen Martin
Photo Courtesy: The D Zone

As Jeff Corrion, the founder of The D Zone (Michigan's main source for recruiting), states, Martin remains underrated, "He's a big, strong, and athletic wide receiver who has high ceiling and high potential. He's a multi-sport athlete who was one of the first 2016 players offered in Michigan, but for some reason has remained underrated."

The future is extremely bright, both on-and-off of the football field for Jalen Martin. With a 6'3", 200-plus pound frame, the Rockets have an established deep threat to target when senior wide out, Alonzo Russell graduates in the spring. Martin will see immediate minutes for the Rockets, who like to use several substitutions at wide out in offensive coordinator Jason Candle's offense.