Local Standouts to Become Toledo Rockets in 2016

By: Zach Harig -- (@ToledoZach on Twitter)

MATT WINZELER & ZACH HOOVER STAYING HOME TO BECOME ROCKETS

Over the past several seasons, some of the Toledo Rockets' most notable recruits and players have been right from their own backyard. Most notably, senior cornerback Cheatham Norrils (St. John's Jesuit High School) and junior left tackle, Storm Norton (Whitmer High School). Last season, in the 2015 recruiting class, Matt Campbell and the Rockets also signed three local products in Central Catholic standout linebacker, Chris Green (Norwood) as well as fellow Irish offensive lineman, Ramon Miles and Rossford's Nate Childress.

For the Rockets, the recruiting pipeline in their own backyard is beginning to pay off, and it likely will in the 2016 recruiting class as well. Two current standouts in the Northwest Ohio high school football scene include Central Catholic punter, Zach Hoover, as well as St. John's Jesuit quarterback, Matt Winzeler, both seniors for powerhouse football programs. Following their graduations of their respective high schools, the two have accepted preferred walk-on spots at The University of Toledo.

Despite each being a preferred walk-on and not scholarship recruits yet, Hoover and Winzeler are not your typical 'recruiting class fillers' as most big-time programs call their preferred walk-on commits. The two Toledo-natives will come in and compete right away, as the Rocket coaching staff has told them.

Toledo Central Catholic punter, Zach Hoover, will have a serious
chance to compete for the starting job as a true-freshman.

"My parents and I had a meeting with Coach Campbell and Coach Bryan Gasser (Special Teams Coordinator) in the summer and we talked about me competing right away," Hoover stated about his role with the Rockets. "They said they like my talent coming in, they like how I play wide receiver and basketball too because they like my athletic ability and how it allows them to have more variety with the punt team, such as rugby style punting," he continued.


For Winzeler, the 6'3", 185-pound gunslinger knows he will have his work cut out for him once arriving on campus, and the coaches aren't promising anything, but that doesn't seem to bother him.

"The coaches haven't guaranteed anything, especially with the current quarterback situation now," Winzeler stated, "They just told me I will be given every opportunity to earn a scholarship once I am there. They said they would not have recruited me or offered me the preferred walk-on opportunity if they did not see the potential for me to play, or start, in the future at UT."

St. John's Jesuit quarterback Matt
Wenzeler will provide depth at the
quarterback position for the 
Toledo Rockets.

Obviously, with senior quarterback Phillip Ely being eligible for a medical redshirt after missing last season due to an ACL tear, there's a chance he could return next year. Aside from Ely is junior quarterback Logan Woodside, who has also started several games for the Rockets in Ely's absence. Winzeler, a 2,300-yard, 18 touchdown thrower as a junior in 2014, will look to learn from the quarterback duo once he arrives on campus.


Even though Hoover and Winzeler each committed to stay home, they had their fair share of interest from other schools as well. Hoover, a 6'3", 170-pound wide receiver, kicker  Irish, has been a hot commodity as a punter for the past year. "I have received a lot of interest from Cincinnati, Purdue, Illinois, Wisconsin, and I've had South Carolina showing me a lot of interest lately as well," Hoover stated, though no offers were made.

In fact, Hoover has been receiving so much attention on the recruiting trail that Kohl's Kicking, the recruiting agency and website for specialists, actually rated Hoover as a 4.5-star on a five-star scale. On July 7, Hoover attended a Kohl's Kicking camp at John Carroll University in Cleveland. There, Hoover averaged nearly 44 yards per punt.

Hoover, also a wide receiver at Central Catholic, is a true athlete at punter.

Last year, Kohl's Kicking ranked the Central Catholic product the sixth-best punter in the entire country and the best punter in all of Ohio. After reading the comments from Jamie Kohl, the founder of Kohl's Kicking, it's easy to see why Hoover is such a highly sought after prospect.

"Zach is a solid punting prospect. He has good levers and a great frame. He hits with consistency and showed leg strength at the 2014 scholarship camp. His upside is great, his hands need to be cleaned up and his steps can continue to be straighter. Solid prospect," Kohl stated on the Toledo commit.

After winning the 2014 Division III State Championship with the Central Catholic Irish, Hoover is having a solid season in 2015 as well. A starter at wide receiver, kicker, and punter, the all-around athlete has punted the ball just thirteen times due to the high-powered offense this season, but is averaging 45.5 yards per punt.


In contrast, Winzeler, was beginning to receive mass amounts of Division II interest at quarterback before deciding to walk-on at Toledo. "I had interest from Wayne State, Malone University, and the University of Findlay. I also received interest from Ohio University and Youngstown State, but no offers were made."

Winzeler, a 2,300 yard thrower as a junior in 2014 along with 18 touchdowns, has begun to heat up during his incredible senior season thus far. After a 2-8 overall record for the St. John's Jesuit Titans a season ago, they have improved to 6-2 overall through eight games this season, with a monumental game against Hoover and Central Catholic this Friday night.

The improvement of Doug Pearson's St. John's Titans comes majorly from the improvement of Matt Winzeler. Despite a breakout season in 2014, the maturity and leadership that Winzeler has portrayed as a senior has made an impact on the team, ultimately translating to wins.

St. John's Jesuit quarterback Matt Winzeler is a steal for the Toledo Rockets.
Photo Courtesy: St. John's Jesuit High School

Winzeler says a dedication to mature and get stronger in the off-season has made the biggest difference, "I worked a lot in the weight room getting stronger and gaining weight which has helped a lot on the field being more durable."

"Also, just working on my overall mechanics with throwing and footwork has made a big difference in my game this year. The biggest difference between last year and this year is my maturity and confidence in my abilities. Knowing what I'm capable of doing and trusting the work I've put in and implementing it into how I play on Friday nights," Winzeler continued.


Due to the proximity to campus, Hoover and Winzeler have been on Toledo's campus several times. For Winzeler, the visits to The University of Toledo began at a young age, "I've lived in Toledo, just ten minutes away from the university for all of my life, so I went to football and basketball games growing up with my dad all the time."

Those visits would continue throughout high school, "Throughout my high school recruitment, I took multiple visits on campus and attended camp the summers before my sophomore, junior, and three different times this past summer."


For Hoover, his visits have occurred during spring practices and home games, which peaked his interest. "The atmosphere is great, I love seeing all of the fans tailgating before the game and then filling the stadium for kickoff," he stated.

After visits to several Big Ten schools such as Ohio State, Michigan, and Wisconsin to name a few, Hoover decided to accept a walk-on spot at Toledo and stopped taking other visits.

"I have loved the coaching staff since the first day I visited there, I love the way the program is going and really like what Coach Campbell is doing for the program," Hoover continued, "I think Toledo is a great fit for me."



For Hoover, even as a preferred walk-on, there will be an opportunity to start right away. Current starting punter, Nick Ellis, will be a senior next fall during Hoover's true-freshman season, but has struggled in the past. Despite past struggles, Ellis has stepped up his punt average this season, averaging just over 39 yards. Hoover, however, will have a true chance to win the job, especially with his 45 yard per punt average. As a preferred walk-on, don't be surprised if Hoover earns his scholarship right away and wins the starting job, even over a senior.



The local connection for the Toledo Rockets will continue in the Class of 2016 with Central Catholic's Zach Hoover as well as St. John's Jesuit quarterback, Matt Winzeler. Although they're both preferred walk-ons, don't sleep on Hoover to win the job right away and Winzeler to learn behind Ely, Woodside, and his fellow quarterbacks to ultimately earn a scholarship.

There's a certain excitement when Toledo fans can watch someone that grew up in the shadows of The Glass Bowl. Toledo's name is now known in the world of College Football, and the kids from The Glass City feel a certain entitlement to protect their city and their stadium, more so than recruits who aren't originally from the 419. Watch out for Zach Hoover and Matt Winzeler as they take their talents down the road to the bright lights on The Glass Bowl.

Recruits Take Notice of Toledo's Hot Start

Historic Start On The Field Leads to Success Off The Field for the Toledo Rockets

2016 Recruiting Class Could Be Toledo's Best

After a historic start to the 2015 season for the Toledo Rockets, the national spotlight is beginning to shine on Matt Campbell and the Glass City. Prior to the season, the Rockets had high expectations after being selected to win the Mid-American Conference. Toledo proved to be well deserving following their win on the road against SEC foe, Arkansas in a 16-12 battle. Following the biggest win in school history, the Rockets returned to the Glass Bowl to defeat another 'Power Five' school in Iowa State, 30-23, in double overtime. Since then, wins over Arkansas State and a conference win on the road at Ball State have given the Rockets a Top-25 ranking from the Associated Press, their first ranking since 2012.

Success on and off of the field, goes hand-in-hand
for the Toledo Rockets in 2015-16.

The hot start has led to mass amounts of national attention from both media, college football fans, and recruits. Toledo currently has 18 commits in their 2016 class, including four three-star recruits by Yahoo! Rivals. Those commits are taking notice of the Rockets' early success, as are the top uncommitted targets that Toledo is going after.

Arguably Toledo's top commit in the 2016 class, currently, is three-star athlete Tyrece Speaight, of Columbus. Speaight committed to the Rockets on June 26 over offers from Cincinnati, Ball State, Kent State, Eastern Michigan, Ball State, Miami (Ohio), and Ohio. A lot of times, recruiting websites will describe commitments as 'soft', 'hard', etc. but Speaight describes his commitment in one short sentence, "I'm Toledo all the way, no matter who offers."

Tyrece Speaight is arguably the biggest commit in 2016.
(Courtesy of Speaight via Twitter)

Speaight, a 5'10", 185-pound ball-hawk, will most likely find himself as a safety or defensive back in the Glass City. His commitment to the Rockets came after a visit to Toledo where he took a visit of the business department, "I want to major in business and my department visit there was awesome," Speaight stated. As for the early success of the Rockets and national attention, Speaight is excited for the rest of 2015, as well as his future in Northwest Ohio, "It's great that they're showing people how good they are," he continued, "When I was a Kent State commit and took a visit to Toledo, I knew it was the place for me, I think we can do something special."

Washington, Pennsylvania tight end, Nate Swart.
(Courtesy of Swart via Twitter)

Toledo's start is shocking to some, but some around the program were expecting it, which is the case with Toledo tight end commit, Nate Swart of Washington, Pennsylvania. "I kind of expected this start to be honest with you," said Swart, a 6'5", 225-pound pass-catching tight end, "They have great players, a great coaching staff, family like atmosphere, and great fans."

Swart committed on March 27 despite interest from Bowling Green, Akron, Pittsburgh, and several other schools. "I think next year we are only going to get better as we go along," said Swart on the 2016 Toledo class, "The class that we are bringing in next year is a tight knit group with a bunch of great ball players." 

Another big-time get for the Rockets in their 2016 recruiting class is Akron, Ohio safety, Jatairis Grant. The 6'0", 180-pound defensive back has major talent and is severely underrated as a two-star by Rivals. Grant committed to Toledo on June 25 over offers from nearly the entire MAC (aside from the Michigan MAC schools) as well as Cincinnati and James Madison.

"The coaches and players are doing a great job," Grant stated, "Hopefully they keep doing what they're doing and get ranked even higher." As for the 2016 class, Grant says he is excited to get on campus, "I'm extremely excited to get up there, I know I'll be around a great program with great people."

Toledo loves their runningbacks and they have a beast coming in the 2016 class in Parma Heights, Ohio's Shakif Seymour. The 5'11", 220-pound three-star (by Rivals) rushed for 204 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries against Elyria Catholic. Seymour chose Toledo over offers from Akron, Austin Peay, Bowling Green, Buffalo, Kent State, Miami (Ohio), Old Dominion, and Western Michigan and says he likes to compare his running style to Le'Veon Bell or LSU's Leonard Fournette.

Seymour says he chose the Rockets due to the family atmosphere, "I felt most comfortable at UT, especially with all of the coaches, they made me feel at home and I love it there," Seymour stated. As for this season's early success, Seymour has definitely been paying attention, "I think it's amazing how great they're doing this season and I can't wait to become a part of Rocket Nation, they have the best interest in my future."

Penn Hills, Pennsylvania athlete, Billy Kisner will provide
a lot of depth for the Toledo 2016 recruiting class.
(Courtesy of Kisner via Twitter)

A consistent pipeline for the Toledo Rockets on the recruiting trail is the Pittsburgh area and that has continued in the class of 2016. Penn Hills High School athlete, Billy Kisner will provide speed and depth to the class after choosing the Rockets on March 28 over offers from Albany, James Madison, and Temple. The 6'0", 180-pound Kisner says he's extremely excited for what the Rockets have going right now, and for the future, "This start to the season has me extremely excited for where they're going to finish this year," Kisner stated. "When our class comes in, there's going to be big expectations and I think we can accomplish those, and more," he continued.

Ronnie Jones of Central Catholic (Pittsburgh, PA) is a
tremendous looking back in the 2016 class.
(Courtesy of Jones via Twitter)

Another Pittsburgh product currently committed to the Rockets in 2016 is Central Catholic runningback, Ronnie Jones. The 6'1", 185-pound back will provide depth in the Toledo backfield, in a system that loves to use a variety of backs and systems on offense. Jones choose Toledo over offers from Kent State and Fordham and averaged eight yards per carry as a junior last season. Now, Jones is focused on his senior season and his future in the Glass City. 

"I think that Toledo is going to be an even better program in the future," Jones continued, "They are off to a great start, they just have to stay focused and the program will be flourishing, Rocket Nation all the way."

The third Pittsburgh product of the 2016 class is three-star athlete, James Jackson. A 6'2", 175-pound dynamic recruit, Jackson also held offers from Arizona State and Temple before choosing Toledo on June 5. The future is bright as the Pittsburgh pipeline continues to lead to Toledo.

Toledo defensive line commit, Baer Hunter.
(Courtesy of Hunter via Twitter)

A big defensive commit for the Rockets was Clemmons, North Carolina product, Baer Hunter. Despite not having a ranking on Rivals as of yet, Hunter had offers from Army, Bowling Green, Gardner-Webb, and Navy before choosing the Rockets on June 19. The 6'2", 235-pound defensive end says he's always known Toledo has had the capability of a season like this, "I'm extremely excited for the success they are having but I've always known they were capable of great things, Coach Campbell is a great coach and man."

As for the 2016 class and his future at Toledo, Hunter couldn't be more excited, "I'm extremely excited for the future, I just continue to thank God and my family for getting me to where I'm at right now."

Aside from the names previously mentioned, the Rockets also have a commitment from three-star wide receiver, Obi Anunike  of Lewis Center, Ohio. The 6'4", 205-pound wide out will provide a deep threat, similar to Alonzo Russell, the current senior wide receiver at Toledo. Another name to watch is Desmond Phillips of Miami, Florida. The two-star by Rivals will provide a certain speed threat and could have a chance to play quarterback during his tenure at Toledo. A 4.58 40-yard dash, Phillips' 5'11", 170-pound stature will certainly provide flexibility as to where he plays and will leave the potential to line him up at several positions. Phillips had offers from fourteen schools, including several MAC schools, Florida International, Marshall, South Florida, and Syracuse. 

In the MAC, recruiting classes can look promising until late January, when bigger schools look to fill out classes and reach down to target mid-major recruits. However, Toledo's success thus far in 2015 on the field has led to success on the recruiting trail. The eighteen current commits as well as several top targets see the Glass City as an extremely enticing destination to play college football. Toledo will have several chances to continue their national attention over the next few seasons as series' with BYU and Miami (Florida) have been scheduled, as well as several other top programs. The 2016 recruiting class is already looking bright and should continue to grow as time goes on.

Wide receiver Jalen Martin has elite
potential. (Courtesy: The D Zone)

Other major Toledo targets to watch out for prior to February's National Signing Day include Rockford, Illinois outside linebacker Alfonzo Lambert, Harper Woods, Michigan three-star wide receiver Jalen Martin, Hallandale, Florida cornerback and current Cincinnati commit, Romelo Webster, and Canton, Michigan outside linebacker, Jalen Cochran, who already has offers from Iowa and several MAC schools.

Questions? Comments? Thoughts? Zach will keep you posted on Toledo recruiting news via Twitter, interact with him: @ToledoZach

Rockets Attempt to Make History Against Iowa State

IOWA STATE AT TOLEDO PREVIEW

After last week's triumphant upset win over then eighteenth ranked Arkansas, Toledo will attempt to make it back-to-back wins over "Power Five" programs as Iowa State comes in on Saturday. With a win, the Rockets would make program history by being the first team to defeat two "Power Five" conference teams in the same season. A year ago, Toledo traveled to Ames, Iowa to take on the Cyclones but would fall, 37-30, in a close one.

The crowd shown here, against Missouri last season, should
be of similar size Saturday against Iowa State.

This season should be different. Toledo is currently a nine-and-a-half point favorite against the Cyclones due to the national attention from the upset win over Arkansas along with the return of junior runningback, Kareem Hunt. A season ago, the Rockets had a graveyard for a secondary with the illness of Cheatham Norrils, Chris Dukes out for the year, and freshmen being pressed into action. Now, the Rockets are deep at all positions. UAB transfer, Rolan Milligan, has added tremendous depth to the defensive secondary while DeJuan Rogers is coming off of a game at Arkansas in which he tallied eleven tackles and an interception while Jaylen Coleman led the Rockets with thirteen total tackles. Last year, Iowa State threw all over the Rockets with quarterback Sam Richardson, who threw for 351 yards in the win a year ago. This year, the Toledo secondary should improve on that number.


TOLEDO KEYS TO THE GAME:

1) Slow Down the Iowa State Passing Game

Iowa State trusts quarterback Sam Richardson to throw the
ball frequently.
(Photo Courtesy: Brownsville Herald)

It's no secret, Iowa State destroyed Toledo a season ago through the air. This season, expect senior cornerback, Cheatham Norrils to play tremendously, as he has the past two (well, actually one) game(s). Expect Toledo defensive coordinator, John Heacock to bring pressure from all angles and attempt to rattle quarterback Sam Richardson. When Richardson has time to throw, he could destroy the Rocket secondary. If Toledo can get pressure on Richardson, it'll be far more difficult for him to deliver the ball to his wide outs.



2) No Post-Upset Hangovers
Toledo is beginning to receive national attention after last week's win over Arkansas. In fact, the Rockets received 29 votes for the Associated Press Top 25, which is enough to unofficially rank them No. 30 in the country. Now, the key for the Rockets is to not get too cocky, not celebrate too much, and focus on the task at hand. Sure, Iowa State wasn't good last year, but this is a Big 12 opponent, a team that plays a brutal schedule, so Toledo cannot come out flat to begin the game.


3) Find The Running Game Early
I know it should be easy with the stable of runningbacks that Toledo has to run the ball. However, against Arkansas, Toledo came out passing on eleven of their first thirteen plays from scrimmage, which obviously worked. This week, especially with the return of Kareem Hunt, expect Jason Candle's offense to put the ball on the ground, utilizing Damion Jones-Moore, who had a stellar performance against the Hogs last week as well as potentially Terry Swanson, who has "yet to play this season" except for in the cancelled game against Stony Brook. With Kareem Hunt, Jones-Moore, and Swanson, look for the rushing attack early and often to set up the play action with Phillip Ely.


IOWA STATE KEYS TO THE GAME:
1) Contain Kareem Hunt in his Return

Toledo runningback Kareem Hunt will need to be stopped if
Iowa State wants a chance on Saturday.

Kareem Hunt is unbelievable. In fact, the Toledo back rushed for nearly 150 yards against Missouri a season ago, so he can run against extremely capable defenses, not just cupcakes. With that said, Iowa State needs to focus on stopping the run against the Rockets. Toledo will use three (and even four) runningbacks throughout the ballgame, all who are extremely capable. Although Phillip Ely played tremendously in the "season opener" against Arkansas last week, the passing game depends frequently on the running attack of the Rockets. It will be a major assistance to the Cyclones if they can shut Hunt down.



2) Find A Running Game
Through their first two games, Iowa State has not been able to find their running attack. Sophomore runningback Tyler Brown rushed for just nineteen yards last week against Iowa, so running the football will need to become a priority. Toledo will have confidence in their defensive secondary if Iowa State is one-dimensional. However, if Iowa State is unable to establish the run game, expect Toledo's defense to play tremendously.



3) Score Early
Toledo should be playing in front of one of the biggest crowds that the Glass Bowl has seen in the past decade or two. The Rocket faculty and students enjoyed a pep rally on Thursday to get the excitement pumping for Saturday's game. Along with that, national television coverage will certainly get the Glass Bowl rocking. If Iowa State can score early and get the crowd out of the game, they have a chance to sustain that. The Cyclone offense will need to be clicking early against Toledo.

X-FACTORS -- TWO PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Toledo - WR Alonzo Russell

Iowa State defensive end Dale Pierson
is leading the country in sacks.
(Photo Courtesy: Iowa State Daily)

I know, I know. It'd be easy to give the X-Factor to Kareem Hunt because all eyes will be on his 2015 debut. However, I really think Alonzo Russell will play a major role in this exact game due to the size of the Iowa State secondary. The Cyclones have cornerbacks Sam Richardson (5'8", 180 pounds) and Nigel Tribune (5'11", 185 pounds) starting against the Rockets. Alonzo Russell stands at 6'4" and should be able to use his stature for deep balls, especially against man-to-man coverage. Watch for Alonzo Russell to play a major role, Toledo needs to target him often.

Iowa State - DE Dale Pierson 

America's sacks leader through two weeks is Dale Pierson of Iowa State. The senior out of Bakersfield, California has a tremendous spin move and tremendous strength and has five sacks in just two contests thus far in 2015. Listed at 6'2", 250 pounds, Pierson is going to be someone to watch out for. If he's able to get to Phillip Ely and the Rockets, it could be a long day. Remember, Toledo's offensive line is still unproven. Although they had a great week last week, Pierson will be a true test against the front five.

Toledo wide receiver, Alonzo Russell,
has a chance to have a big game Saturday.

HOW TO WATCH/LISTEN:
You can watch Iowa State at Toledo beginning at 8 pm on Saturday night on ESPNEWS. If you're on the road or want radio, tune into 88.3 FM WXUT -- The University of Toledo's student radio station beginning at 7:30 pm with the pregame show.



BOLD PREDICTIONS:
- Toledo will hold Iowa State quarterback, Sam Richardson to under 225 passing yards.
- Toledo wide receiver Alonzo Russell will catch two touchdowns.
- Iowa State defensive end Dale Piersen does not record a sack after five in his first two games.


SCORE PREDICTION:
Iowa State 24 -- Toledo 41

First Half Analysis: Toledo at Arkansas

RECAP:
Score: Toledo 9, Arkansas 7

Entering Toledo's first-ever contest with Arkansas, they opened as a 21 point favorite. With no respect granted to the smaller Mid-American Conference foe, Toledo made sure they earned some. Senior quarterback, Philip Ely came out firing for the Rockets, connecting with Corey Jones for a five yard touchdown pass to give Toledo an early 6-0 lead following a missed two-point conversion. Toledo's defense would impress early, blocking a poorly snapped punt, which was the first blocked punt for the Rockets since 2011 against Ohio State and making several key third down stops against the Razorbacks.

Late in the first half, Arkansas would attempt to convert on a fourth-and-one from the Toledo 34-yard line. Razorback head coach, Bret Bielema would send out his jumbo package in a goal-line like formation. The hand-off would go to runningback Alex Collins, who was stopped inches short of the first down and Toledo took over. From there, quarterback Philip Ely took over and connected with Corey Jones on a 24-yard over-the-shoulder grab to the Arkansas 31-yard line. The Rockets would stall out at the 21-yard line and true-freshman kicker Jameson Vest would connect on a 38-yard field goal, despite having his previous field goal attempt blocked, to give Toledo a 9-7 lead with 1:06 left to play in the opening half.

After Arkansas shot themselves in the foot with penalties in the final drive of the first half, Toledo would take a 9-7 lead into the locker rooms at the half. Sure, it's only one half, but the Rockets entered as a 24 point underdog, according to ESPN right before kickoff.

ANALYSIS: 

Philip Ely looked tremendous in the opening half. As stated, it was one half of football. However, last season, the Rockets would need time to get their offense going. Today, Ely came out looking sharp and playing smart. If something wasn't there, he'd check it down or throw the ball away, which was a key to entering the game in front of 50,000 screaming SEC fans.

The interesting part to the first half was Toledo choosing to throw the ball so often on their opening possession, even without Kareem Hunt. In fact, Toledo threw the ball eleven times in their first thirteen plays. In the opening half, Marc Remy and Damion Jones-Moore showed glimpses of elusiveness and play-making, racking up 39 yards combined on nine carries. Despite being outgained 278-to-216 in total yardage for the first half, the Rockets were right in the game in the opening half.

At wide receiver, Corey Jones dropped two key passes early in the game, but made up for it with a touchdown reception and a few beautiful receptions later in the first half, good for four catches and 36 yards. The Rockets will need to look for their key threat, Alonzo Russell, more often as the game continues. Arkansas' defensive secondary is undersized with one safety over six-feet tall. Russell caught one ball for 32 yards in the opening 30 minutes, which will need to improve as the game goes on. True freshman wide out, Diontae Johnson stepped up and played a major role in the opening half by contributing a beautiful grab for 27 yards and should be a major threat, especially speed-wise, in the second half.

The offensive line has surprisingly held up in the first thirty as well, aside from two key offside penalties on the Rockets' opening possession. Ely has been quick to get the ball out against a dangerous front seven as well, which will need to continue.

Defensively, the Rockets have played extremely well. Despite giving up 278 total yards in the opening half, Toledo got off of the field on third downs, holding Arkansas to 2-for-5 on conversions. A key fourth down stop late in the first half set up a Jameson Vest field goal which gave Toledo the lead going into the locker rooms as well.

The key to the second half: limit mistakes and continue to get off of the field. Long Arkansas possessions will tire Toledo's solid defensive efforts. If the Rockets win the time of possession in the second half, they'll be able to pull off the upset over No. 18 Arkansas. Book it. Current time of possession going into the half: Arkansas leads 17:26 to 12:34.

How Does Toledo Compete with Arkansas?

TOLEDO @ ARKANSAS - KEYS TO THE GAME

It's Arkansas weekend for the Toledo Rockets.
(Photo Courtesy: Idaho Statesman)

Following last week's cancellation against Stony Brook due to inclement weather, it's a "second" season opener for the Toledo Rockets. The Rockets and Arkansas Razorbacks square off in Little Rock on Saturday for the first ever meeting between the two programs. Obviously, it won't be easy for Toledo as they enter a hostile SEC atmosphere at War Memorial Stadium, but there are ways for Matt Campbell and the Rockets to keep the game close. Without Preseason Maxwell Award Watch List runningback Kareem Hunt, Toledo is behind the eight-ball before the game even kicks off on Saturday. So, between the environment, Kareem Hunt suspension, and only having a half of football under their belt, the Rockets have their work cut out for them this weekend in SEC country.

Arkansas opens as a 21 point favorite in the contest, but that doesn't mean Toledo can't make it a competitive game. Here are a few keys to at least making the game worth watching after halftime:

1) CREATE TURNOVERS

Chaz Whitaker creates turnovers in the Toledo secondary and
will need to provide a spark on Saturday.

Arkansas takes care of the football. Behind senior quarterback Brandon Allen, the Razorbacks will put the ball in the air. A season ago, Allen threw for 20 touchdowns compared to only five interceptions -- which was third-lowest in the FBS among qualifying quarterbacks. Allen is a true leader as well as a true game manager, with that being said, it'll be tough to force the senior into mistakes. To illustrate Allen's ability to take care of the football, he has not thrown an interception in his last 108 pass attempts, which is the second-longest streak of his career. Allen will also make his 27th consecutive start for Bret Bielema against Toledo, which is the longest current streak in the SEC.

For Matt Campbell and his defense, the focus will be on getting pressure and forcing turnovers. Someone to watch for is Toledo senior, Chaz Whitaker, who actually, "had two interceptions" in the "season opener." What season opener? Oh yeah, it technically didn't count. However, Whitaker's two interceptions in just one half of football before the cancellation, proved that he can be a leader in the Rockets secondary. The turnovers need to happen on Saturday.

As former Central Michigan head coach, Dan Enos, prepares for his second game as Arkansas' offensive coordinator, look for him to trust Allen early through the air. The hardest thing for opposing defenses against an Arkansas (or Dan Enos led) offense is the way they don't ask too much from their quarterbacks. The Hogs will run to set up the pass, which makes it difficult for the front-seven and ultimately opens up the passing game. Last week against UTEP, Allen threw for four touchdowns and led the way to a 48-13 victory in Fayetteville.

2) SCORE EARLY TO CONTROL THE ENVIRONMENT

Toledo will need to use Alonzo
Russell early and often against
Arkansas.

I get it, this is easier said than done, but if Toledo can get a big play early, it could swing momentum. Despite the game being in Little Rock rather than Fayetteville, the centralized location in Arkansas will draw Razorback fans from all over, which creates for a hostile environment. Something as simple as a defensive miscommunication from Arkansas, a big kick return, or even a quick field goal to begin the game could get momentum going and keep the crowd somewhat out of the game. 

In reality, if Arkansas scores first, especially a touchdown, this game is likely over. Arkansas a big (and I mean big) team in terms of size and will physically wear you down once momentum is obtained. The key to even the second half of the game will come in the first ten minutes of the game. What do I mean by that? I'll explain. Hypothetically (we hope), Arkansas scores fourteen points early. At that point, the crowd is rocking, Toledo is already mentally worn down, and the game is already decided (you aren't coming back from a fourteen point deficit in SEC country as a mid-major). In contrast, let's say Toledo somehow (no disrespect to the Toledo defense) holds Arkansas scoreless for their first few possessions and get some points on the board, that's when they're in the game. To summarize, the first ten minutes of the game will tell us a lot about how the afternoon is going to go. For the Rockets -- score early, play disciplined, and stay ahead of the environment and the rocking crowd in Central Arkansas.

3) COMPETE IN THE TRENCHES

Toledo senior, Trent Voss will play a major role in the pass
rush on Saturday.

As previously stated, Arkansas is a massive and physically imposing team that will pound opponents into the ground. In case that isn't intimidating enough, the Razorbacks' offensive line averages 328 pounds, which is the most in the Power Five Conferences as well as the National Football League. In fact, Arkansas features Dan Skipper, a 6'10", 331-pound right tackle who will provide nightmares for Toledo defensive ends Trent Voss, Keenan Gibbs, Tre James, and company. It'll be a tough task for the Rockets to out-physical the Hogs. However, the advantage is actually in Toledo's favor when it comes to speed and agility. The Rockets feature a quick front-seven, who could provide interesting challenges in the pass rush when it comes to applying pressure on quarterback, Brandon Allen.

On the offensive side of the ball for the Rockets, with five inexperienced offensive linemen, the Rockets will have their hands full with the opposing front seven. Like a broken record, Arkansas has dominating size on the defensive line, including 6'1", 340-pound senior defensive tackle, DeMarcus Hodge and 6'2", 290-pound junior Taiwan Johnson next to him at down-tackle. Toledo left tackle, Storm Norton has been pressed into duty as not only the blind-side protector of quarterback Philip Ely but also the captain and leader of the offensive line. Aside from Norton, Florida State transfer and fifth-year senior, Ruben Carter, will look to provide a presence on the Rockets' offensive line. Since Toledo's actual season opener was cancelled after one half last Thursday, the Rockets really didn't get a chance to see what their offensive line looked like, which is scary going into Arkansas.

All-in-all, Toledo will need to show maturity, especially when it comes to protecting quarterback Philip Ely on the offensive side of the trenches. However, on defense, the Rockets will need to pressure quarterback Brandon Allen before he tears the secondary apart. Toledo's speed and agility will need to be used if they'd like to win the battle in the trenches, but it will be one difficult task.

4) PHILIP ELY NEEDS TO THRIVE IN SEC COUNTRY

Toledo quarterback, Philip Ely should be used
to hostile environments.

Current Toledo quarterback, Philip Ely, has the background that you'd like your starter to have entering SEC country. Despite hardly having game experience, Ely is an Alabama transfer, who left the Crimson Tide for the Rockets after being a third-string backup in Tuscaloosa. Now, Ely should feel right at home. This is the reason he originally committed to Nick Saban and the Tide, to play in big-time games like the one this weekend. 

For Ely, there's zero time to adjust. In the game against Arkansas, one mistake could end momentum and ultimately end the Rockets' chances to keep the game close throughout. Obviously, you have 60 minutes in a football game, but against a SEC opponent, you need your quarterback on his 'A game' from the get-go. Typically (at least in the three games we've seen Ely start), he uses the first few possessions of each game to get settled in to a groove. This weekend, with as tough as the Hogs' run defense is, Ely will need to find his main targets, Alonzo Russell and Corey Jones, frequently. The key for Ely is to be a game manager and minimize mistakes. The one advantage Toledo could have is in the passing game due to the Arkansas secondary being slightly undersized. By using senior wide receiver, Alonzo Russell, the Rockets could have success on a few deep balls throughout the afternoon due to his 6'4", 205-pound frame.

5) RIDE THE HOT HAND AT RUNNINGBACK

Toledo offensive coordinator, Jason Candle loves to run the
football, but is without Kareem Hunt on Saturday.

It's no secret that Toledo will be without Kareem Hunt on Saturday against a top-twenty opponent. The loss is a big one, without a doubt. Even with Hunt, people were already writing the Rockets off in the matchup. Now, head coach Matt Campbell will need to lean heavily on juniors Damion Jones-Moore and Marc Remy as well as true-sophomore Terry Swanson, who has been battling a lower leg injury over the past week. In games where Hunt is healthy and active, he'll obviously take over the show, but Jones-Moore, Remy, and Swanson always get their carries on a game-to-game basis as well. This week, one (or all) will need to step up. Typically, Matt Campbell will give each tailback two or three series' before seeing who has the hot hand for the second half. In my eyes, it can't be all three runningbacks getting equal action, one of them will need to at least show positive signs to make plays.

Without an established runningback, it'll be extremely tough for the Rockets, even though they run the ball so well. In fact, Toledo ranked No. 14 in the country a season ago in rushing yards per game, but now they do so without their junior leader. The season opener against Stony Brook was suppose to solve questions as to who the main runningback would be this weekend in Little Rock. However, due to Mother Nature and the cancellation, thirty minutes of football simply wasn't enough to tell who will see the most action this weekend. Ultimately, Damion Jones-Moore showed glimpses of break-away speed last week at times, so look for him to get a majority of the early carries, especially if Swanson isn't fully healthy at kickoff.

EASY ENOUGH, RIGHT?

There. Plain and simple, if Toledo does those five things, they win. Well, nevermind. This is SEC football, there's nothing mid-major about this weekend. Even if the Rockets do three or four of these keys to the game well, there's still a major chance of a blood bath in Arkansas. The sad part? I have full confidence in the Rockets this season, they'll be great. It's just that the Razorbacks are truly that good.

INTERACT

Questions/Comments/Concerns? Follow/Interact with Zach on Twitter: @ToledoZach

I'll also be live-tweeting the game from Little Rock! Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET

2015 Mid-American Conference Football Predictions

Ah, the Mid-American Conference. The fast-pace and electricity of a high-scoring conference attracts television viewers nationwide. Let's take a look at the 2015 schedules, notes, and predictions for all MAC teams as this season quickly approaches, all bias aside.

NOTE: These are all my predictions, give me yours on Twitter: @ToledoZach

AKRON ZIPS:

2015 Schedule:
Sept. 5 -- @ Oklahoma -- L 31-10
Sept. 12 -- Pittsburgh -- L 24-21
Sept. 19 -- Savannah State -- W 28-3
Sept. 26 -- @ Louisiana Lafayette -- W 27-21
Oct. 3 -- Ohio -- L 31-24
Oct. 10 -- @ Eastern Michigan -- W 42-14

Akron quarterback Kyle Pohl will
have a huge role for the Zips in 2015.
Photo Courtesy: Toledo Blade

Oct. 17 -- @ Bowling Green -- L 24-21
Oct. 31 -- Central Michigan -- W 24-20
Nov. 7 -- @ UMass -- L 42-31
Nov. 14 -- @ Miami (OH) -- W 28-7
Nov. 21 -- Buffalo -- W 31-17
Nov. 27 -- Kent State -- W 24-14

Prediction: (6-6 overall, 4-4 MAC) 

Outlook: Akron returns senior quarterback Kyle Pohl, who averaged just 209 passing yards per game following the week one win over FCS Howard. In the running game, Akron is less than impressive, especially after losing leading rusher, Jawon Chisholm to graduation. Defensively, Akron will feature a shaky secondary, but could have the passing rushing and front-seven to make up for it. As a whole, the Zips will be talented but inconsistent in my eyes. Being in the MAC East (or MAC "Least" as some call it) will certainly help, especially with the division being wide open once again this season. Akron could be a team that makes a push towards the end of the season with four easily winnable games to close out the regular season, only time will tell.

BALL STATE CARDINALS:

2015 Schedule: 
Sept. 3 -- VMI -- W 35-10
Sept. 12 -- @ Texas A&M -- L 52-17
Sept. 19 -- @ Eastern Michigan -- W 31-28

Ball State quarterback Ozzie Mann isn't a big deep-ball thrower
but plays very consistently as a game manager.
Photo Courtesy: Ball State Daily

Sept. 26 -- @ Northwestern -- L 38-21
Oct. 3 -- Toledo -- L 31-14
Oct. 10 -- @ Northern Illinois -- L 34-20
Oct. 17 -- Georgia State -- L 24-21
Oct. 24 -- Central Michigan -- L 34-31
Oct. 31 -- UMass -- L 42-28
Nov. 5 -- @ Western Michigan -- L 38-14
Nov. 17 -- @ Ohio -- L 24-17
Nov. 24 -- Bowling Green -- L 45-31

Prediction: (2-10 overall, 1-7 MAC) 

Outlook: As illustrated, I have Ball State being a bad team in 2015. My reasons are due to a lack of a rushing attack after the graduation of Jahwan Edwards to compliment a highly inconsistent passing attack, although Ozzie Mann played consistently last year (ten touchdowns, two interceptions), he doesn't stretch the field enough. On defense, Eric Patterson has graduated and the pass rush was weak last season, looking to improve this year. Overall, I see Ball State as a spoiler, a team that could spoil someone's season towards the final few weeks of the season, especially with three tough games to end the regular season. However, it looks like a rebuilding year for the Cardinals.

BOWLING GREEN FALCONS:

2015 Schedule: 
Sept. 5 -- @ Tennessee (in Nashville) -- W 28-24
Sept. 12 -- @ Maryland -- L 38-31
Sept. 19 -- Memphis -- W 42-24
Sept. 26 -- @ Purdue -- W 31-28
Oct. 3 -- @ Buffalo -- W 41-17
Oct. 10 -- UMass -- W 52-42
Oct. 17 -- Akron -- W 24-21
Oct. 24 -- @ Kent State -- W 35-10
 Nov. 4 -- Ohio -- W 28-17
Nov. 11 -- @ Western Michigan -- L 27-24
Nov. 17 -- Toledo -- L 38-35
Nov. 24 -- @ Ball State -- W 45-31

Bowling Green wide receivers Ronnie Moore and Roger
Lewis will look to provide another spark in 2015.
Photo Courtesy: BCSN

Prediction: (9-3 overall, 6-2 MAC) 

Outlook: Bowling Green will have a fast-paced offense and it will provide fits for opposing defenses. Matt Johnson returns as does sophomore Roger Lewis, who is one of the best receivers in the MAC, already. To open the year, the Falcons go on the road to Nashville to take on the Tennessee Volunteers. Honestly, for some reason, I see Bowling Green winning that game on the road. Obviously, it'll be a hostile environment and Tennessee will be a team on the rise this season, but I don't know if they've seen a high-tempo offense like the one Matt Johnson and Bowling Green will show them. Aside from that bold prediction, the year looks bright for the Falcons. At the end of the season, I see Western Michigan and Toledo getting passed them, even though I expect those two games to be extremely, extremely close. Bowling Green should compete for the MAC Championship again in 2015.

BUFFALO BULLS:

2015 Schedule:
Sept. 5 -- Albany -- W 31-7
Sept. 12 -- @ Penn State -- L 45-14
Sept. 19 -- @ Florida Atlantic -- W 24-21
Sept. 26 -- Nevada -- L 35-24
Oct. 3 -- Bowling Green -- L 41-17

Buffalo quarterback Joe Licata will be a bright-spot on an
otherwise youthful squad.
Photo Courtesy: Mass Live

Oct. 17 -- @ Central Michigan -- L 31-14
Oct. 24 -- Ohio -- L 21-10
Oct. 29 -- @ Miami (OH) -- W 35-28
Nov. 5 -- @ Kent State -- W 17-10
Nov. 11 -- Northern Illinois -- L 42-24
Nov. 21 -- @ Akron -- L 31-17
Nov. 27 -- UMass -- L 45-20

Prediction: (4-8 overall, 2-6 MAC)

Outlook: With first year head coach, Lance Leipold, Buffalo should be rebuilding in 2015. Quarterback Joe Licata returns for his third season as the Bulls starting signal caller, but the wide receiving core is weak aside from deep-threat Ron Willoughby. Defensively, the Bulls lost both starting safeties to graduation, had a nation-low two interceptions last season, and allowed 8.33 yards per pass attempt in 2014, which was second-highest in the MAC. On special teams, Buffalo is looking for a starting kicker after losing Patrick Clarke, who struggled anyway. All in all, expect a rebuilding year for the Bulls, despite having a veteran quarterback in Joe Licata.

CENTRAL MICHIGAN CHIPPEWAS: 

2015 Schedule: 
Sept. 3 -- Oklahoma State -- L 38-24
Sept. 12 -- Monmouth -- W 42-7
Sept. 19 -- @ Syracuse -- L 24-21
Sept. 26 -- @ Michigan State -- L 35-6
Oct. 3 -- Northern Illinois -- W 24-14
Oct. 10 -- @ Western Michigan -- L 31-28
Oct. 17 -- Buffalo -- W 31-14
Oct. 24 -- @ Ball State -- W 34-31
Oct. 31 -- @ Akron -- L 24-20

Central Michigan first year head coach,
John Bonamego.
Photo Courtesy: The D Zone

Nov. 10 -- Toledo -- L 31-24
Nov. 18 -- @ Kent State -- W 38-14
Nov. 27 -- Eastern Michigan -- W 42-24

Prediction: (6-6 overall, 5-3 MAC) 

Outlook: Central Michigan was caught by surprise when head coach Dan Enos split to become Arkansas' new offensive-coordinator. Now, rookie head coach, John Bonamego will look to lead Central Michigan to another bowl game. Quarterback Cooper Rush returns from what was a stellar sophomore season in 2014. In the backfield, Central Michigan could struggle after the loss of Thomas Rawls to graduation. Aside from the running situation, the receiving core is depleted as well after the losses of Titus Davis and Courtney Williams. On defense, the Chippewas should be solid, especially up front. Joe Ostman and Blake Serpa return to provide veteran experience, but the Chips need to get to the quarterback a lot more in 2015 after just twenty sacks last season, eight in the MAC. The Chippewas could contend for a MAC Championship this season but I still see them falling short to Toledo for the sixth straight season and I also see it difficult to win in Kalamazoo against P.J. Fleck and the rivaled Broncos.

EASTERN MICHIGAN EAGLES:

Eastern Michigan quarterback
Reggie Bell will look to provide
a spark in 2015.
Photo: CFB Performance

2015 Schedule: 
Sept. 5 -- Old Dominion -- L 38-28
Sept. 12 -- @ Wyoming -- L 31-14
Sept. 19 -- Ball State -- L 31-28
Sept. 26 -- Army -- W 35-22
Oct. 3 -- @ LSU -- L 56-10
Oct. 10 -- Akron -- L 42-14
Oct. 17 -- @ Toledo -- L 45-14
Oct. 24 -- @ Northern Illinois -- L 34-7
Oct. 29 -- Western Michigan -- L 28-0
Nov. 7 -- @ Miami (OH) -- W 36-28
Nov. 14 -- UMass -- L 49-24
Nov. 27 -- @ Central Michigan -- L 42-24

Prediction: (2-10 overall, 1-7 MAC) 

Outlook: Ah, the struggle of the Eastern Michigan football program. Unfortunately, it looks like Chris Creighton and the boys are en route to another 2-10 overall season or so. At quarterback, Reggie Bell will provide some explosiveness as a dual-threat, that's if the offensive line can protect him. Eastern Michigan could shock a few teams in the MAC this season, but if it goes as schedule, expect one to two wins in the MAC for this team once again.

KENT STATE GOLDEN FLASHES: 

2015 Schedule: 
Sept. 4 -- @ Illinois -- L 31-10
Sept. 12 -- Delaware State -- W 21-20
Sept. 19 -- @ Minnesota -- L 48-21
Sept. 26 -- Marshall -- L 59-14

Kent State runningback Trayion Durham missed all of 2014
due to injury and will look to jump start the offense in 2015.
Photo Courtesy: Record Pub

Oct. 3 -- Miami (OH) -- W 24-17
Oct. 10 -- @ Toledo -- L 44-21
Oct. 17 -- @ UMass -- L 42-35
Oct. 24 -- Bowling Green -- L 35-10
Nov. 5 -- Buffalo -- L 17-10
Nov. 10 -- @ Ohio -- W 24-20
Nov. 18 -- Central Michigan -- L 34-17
Nov. 27 -- @ Akron -- L 24-14

Prediction: (3-9 overall, 2-6 MAC)

Outlook: One of the worst offenses in college football last season after averaging just 16.4 points per contest, the Kent State Flashes are looking to build. This season, another young team for coach Paul Haynes, who is just 6-17 in his two seasons. The return of runningback Trayion Durham will help after he missed 2014 due to injury, but the Flashes are still extremely young. Two wins may be too low for this team, but until I see a reason to up that number, I see one to two wins being realistic for this team in 2015.

MASSACHUSETTS MINUTEMEN:

2015 Schedule:
Sept. 12 -- @ Colorado -- W 35-31
Sept. 19 -- Temple -- L 31-24

UMass quarterback Blake Frohnapfel is getting national
attention after a stellar season in 2014.
Photo Courtesy: Gazette Net

Sept. 26 -- @ Notre Dame -- L 45-21
Oct. 3 -- Florida International -- W 35-20
Oct. 10 -- @ Bowling Green -- L 52-42
Oct. 17 -- Kent State -- W 42-35
Oct. 24 -- Toledo -- L 38-35
Oct. 31 -- @ Ball State -- W 42-28
Nov. 7 -- Akron -- W 42-31
Nov. 14 -- @ Eastern Michigan -- W 49-24
Nov. 21 -- Miami (OH) -- L 31-28
Nov. 27 -- @ Buffalo -- W 42-20

Prediction: (7-5 overall, 5-3 MAC) 

Outlook: UMass is a team that I'm extremely high on going into 2015. The defense remains a question mark but the front seven will be solid. The Minutemen return linebacker Jovan Santos-Knox, who recorded 143 total tackles last season and was All-MAC First Team as a junior. The team also returns defensive tackle Shai-Ki Holines and Enock Asante to help stop the run. On offense, the Minutemen return quarterback Blake Frohnapfel, who was fourth in the nation last season with 334 passing yards per game. Frohnapfel also returns his biggest weapon from last year in wide out, Tajae Sharpe, who recorded 1,281 yards and seven touchdowns in 2014. The loss of tight end Jean Sifrin to the NFL is a large one as the Minutemen will need to find a red-zone threat, but there's no telling how far Frohnapfel can lead this team, especially if the defensive secondary can improve.

MIAMI (OH) REDHAWKS:

2015 Schedule: 
Sept. 5 -- Presbyterian College -- W 28-3
Sept. 12 -- @ Wisconsin -- L 52-14
Sept. 19 -- Cincinnati -- L 45-17
Sept. 26 -- @ Western Kentucky -- L 42-21
Oct. 3 -- @ Kent State -- L 24-17
Oct. 10 -- @ Ohio -- L 31-21
Oct. 17 -- Northern Illinois -- L 41-14
Oct. 24 -- @ Western Michigan -- L 38-7
Oct. 29 -- Buffalo -- L 35-28
Nov. 7 -- Eastern Michigan -- L 36-28
Nov. 14 -- Akron -- L 28-7

Miami head coach, Chuck Martin has been solid in recruiting
but may need time to translate it to the football field.
Photo Courtesy: Zimbio

Nov. 21 -- @ UMass -- W 31-28

Prediction: (2-10 overall, 1-7 MAC) 

Outlook: After losing quarterback Andrew Hendrix, runningback Dawan Scott, and starting left tackle Zach Lewis, it should be a year of pain for the Miami Redhawks. Chuck Martin is recruiting well and has the program headed upward, but it could be a "wait until next year" mentality for the Redhawks. Defensively, Miami returns six starters on the front seven but they were second-worst in the MAC by allowing 5.1 yards per rush in 2014. The MAC East is extremely weak, so two or three wins in the MAC is possible, but this team is extremely young. It could be another 2-10 overall season in Martin's second year.

NORTHERN ILLINOIS HUSKIES:

2015 Schedule:
Sept. 5 -- UNLV -- W 42-21
Sept. 12 -- Murray State -- W 38-10
Sept. 19 -- @ Ohio State -- L 48-17
Sept. 26 -- @ Boston College -- W 31-27
Oct. 3 -- @ Central Michigan -- L 24-14
Oct. 10 -- Ball State -- W 34-20
Oct. 17 -- @ Miami (OH) -- W 41-14
Oct. 24 -- Eastern Michigan -- W 34-7
Nov. 3 -- @ Toledo -- L 24-21
Nov. 11 -- @ Buffalo -- W 42-24
Nov. 18 -- Western Michigan -- W 21-17
Nov. 24 -- Ohio -- W 28-9

Prediction: (9-3 overall, 6-2 MAC) 

Northern Illinois quarterback, Drew Hare will have a bit
more pressure on his shoulders going into 2015.
Photo Courtesy: The Sports Bank

Outlook: In Rod Carey's tenure, the Huskies have a consistent rushing attack led by quarterback Drew Hare and junior Joel Bouagnon. Following the graduation of leading rusher, Cameron Stingily, Northern Illinois could struggle to find a ground game early on but Bouagnon and Hare will lead a solid stable of backs. The biggest question with the Huskies will be along the offensive line after losing Tyler Loos and center Andrew Ness. Ultimately, I see Northern Illinois finally falling to Toledo but finding a way to beat Western Michigan at home on November 18th. The Huskies will need to rebuild quite a bit after losing top pass rusher Jason Meehan and safety Dechane Durante as well. For any other team, it'd be a rebuilding year and probably an average year at best but for NIU with head coach, Rod Carey, I see them bouncing back just fine after their key losses.

OHIO BOBCATS:

2015 Schedule:
Sept. 3 -- @ Idaho -- W 31-8
Sept. 12 -- Marshall -- L 49-28
Sept. 19 -- Southeastern Louisiana -- W 27-3
Sept. 26 -- @ Minnesota -- L 37-14
Oct. 3 -- @ Akron -- W 31-24
Oct. 10 -- Miami (OH) -- W 31-21
Oct. 17 -- Western Michigan -- L 38-14
Oct. 24 -- @ Buffalo -- W 21-10
Nov. 4 -- @ Bowling Green -- L 28-17
Nov. 10 -- Kent State -- L 24-20
Nov. 17 -- Ball State -- W 24-17

Ohio quarterback, JD Sprague has the ability to throw or run
and will look to win the Bobcats' quarterback battle.
Photo Courtesy: BCSN

Nov. 24 -- @ Northern Illinois -- L 28-9

Prediction: (6-6 overall, 4-4 MAC) 

Outlook: Ohio will look to run the football this fall, no matter who wins the quarterback competition, JD Sprague or Derrius Vick, who are both effective runners. Runningback A.J. Ouellette stepped in as a walk-on true-freshman in 2014 and will provide stability again this season. The passing game could be weak for Ohio, which could be in a problem in the MAC against several solid run defenses. On the defensive end, Ohio was injury-prone in 2014. This year, they'll look to replace defensive linemen Cameron McLeod and Antwan Crutcher. However, the Bobcats have one of the best linebacker combinations in the conference in sophomore Quentin Poling and senior Jovon Johnson. As a whole, Ohio should have a real chance to compete for the MAC East division, especially with it being the weaker division, but may have difficulty hanging with MAC West beasts Western Michigan and Northern Illinois.

TOLEDO ROCKETS:

2015 Schedule:
Sept. 3 -- Stony Brook -- W 38-7
Sept. 12 -- @ Arkansas -- L 34-21
Sept. 19 -- Iowa State -- W 42-34
Sept. 26 -- Arkansas State -- W 45-38
Oct. 3 -- @ Ball State -- W 31-14
Oct. 10 -- Kent State -- W 44-21
Oct. 17 -- Eastern Michigan -- W 45-14
Oct. 24 -- @ UMass -- W 38-35
Nov. 3 -- Northern Illinois -- W 24-21
Nov. 10 -- @ Central Michigan -- W 31-24
Nov. 17 -- @ Bowling Green -- W 38-35
Nov. 27 -- Western Michigan -- L 27-21

Prediction: (10-2 overall, 7-1 MAC) 

Toledo runningback Kareem Hunt will look to carry his team
to a potential MAC Championship this season.

Outlook: Being picked as the favorite to win the MAC is not a certainty, but the Rockets have a serious chance to make the MAC Championship game for the first time since 2004. Maxwell Award preseason nominee, Kareem Hunt will lead Toledo in their backfield after rushing for 1,631 yards in just ten games last season. However, the Rockets are looking to replace all five offensive linemen from 2014, which is a serious question. At quarterback, Philip Ely and Logan Woodside will compete once again, but the Rockets are confident in both after winning nine games combined a year ago. On defense, Toledo is finally healthy after losing defensive backs Cam Cole and Cheatham Norrils a year ago to injury and illness. UAB transfer Rolan Milligan has a chance to be a leader on the Rocket defense as well. Overall, as long as Toledo lives up to expectations, they could end up flirting with Top-25 attention and the season could result in double-digit wins. Again, that's IF they live up to expectations, I expect several wins to be extremely close this season for Matt Campbell and the Rockets.

WESTERN MICHIGAN BRONCOS:

2015 Schedule:
Sept. 4 -- Michigan State -- L 37-14
Sept. 12 -- @ Georgia Southern -- W 35-17
Sept. 19 -- Murray State -- W 48-14
Sept. 26 -- @ Ohio State -- L 52-20
Oct. 10 -- Central Michigan -- W 31-28
Oct. 17 -- @ Ohio -- W 38-14
Oct. 24 -- Miami (OH) -- W 38-7
Oct. 29 -- @ Eastern Michigan -- W 28-0
Nov. 5 -- Ball State -- W 38-14
Nov. 11 -- Bowling Green -- W 27-24
Nov. 18 -- @ Northern Illinois -- L 21-17
Nov. 27 -- @ Toledo -- W 27-21

Western Michigan runningback Jarvion Franklin looks to lead
the Broncos to a MAC Championship in 2015.
Photo Courtesy: Campus Press Box

Prediction: (9-3 overall, 7-1 MAC) 

Outlook: What a turnaround under P.J. Fleck. The Western Michigan Broncos went from a below average program to recruiting with top programs and top conferences once Fleck showed up in Kalamazoo. Recruiting is great, but it's about producing on the field. If the Broncos do that in 2015, it could be a historical season for them, especially behind junior quarterback Zach Terrell, who threw for 26 touchdowns and just ten interceptions in 2014. Don't forget about Jarvion Franklin, who won MAC Freshman of the Year as well as MAC Offensive Player of the Year as a true-freshman a year ago. At receiver, Western will feature Corey Davis and Daniel Braverman, who combined for over 2,400 yards receiving in 2014. It will get interesting in the MAC West and right now, it's anyone's division to take. Western Michigan should be in serious contention for that MAC crown in 2015.

CONFERENCE BREAKDOWN (CONFERENCE PREDICTIONS):

MAC East:
1) Bowling Green (9-3 overall, 6-2 MAC)
2) UMass (7-5 overall, 5-3 MAC)
3) Ohio (6-6 overall, 4-4 MAC)
4) Akron (6-6 overall, 4-4 MAC)
5) Buffalo (4-8 overall, 2-6 MAC)
6) Kent State (2-10 overall, 2-6 MAC)
7) Miami (OH) (2-10 overall, 1-7 MAC)

MAC West:
1) Western Michigan (9-3 overall, 7-1 MAC)
2) Toledo (10-2 overall, 7-1 MAC)
3) Northern Illinois (9-3 overall, 6-2 MAC)
4) Central Michigan (6-6 overall, 5-3 MAC)
5) Ball State (2-10 overall, 1-7 MAC)
6) Eastern Michigan (2-10 overall, 1-7 MAC)

Bowling Green (East) vs. Western Michigan (West)

Conference Prediction Recap:

As a whole, I have eight Mid-American Conference teams getting to six wins or more, becoming bowl eligible and that's a bit unrealistic. The MAC is a conference on the rise, although teams like Northern Illinois have some slight rebuilding to do. However, UMass is a team that could shock some people by winning seven or even eight games while Western Michigan's recruiting could already pay off this season. Toledo is picked to win the MAC and I see that as a serious possibility. However, over the past few seasons, Toledo has been crushed by the tiebreakers and not being able to surpass Northern Illinois. This season, I see two close games in The Glass Bowl between Toledo and Northern Illinois along with Western Michigan. The conference is stacked with stellar players to watch for, including Jarvion Franklin, Corey Davis, Kareem Hunt, Blake Frohnapfel, and Joe Licata. Overall, UMass can make some noise while Northern Illinois takes a slight step back and Kent State, Miami, Ball State, and Eastern Michigan all remain in the cellar of the conference.




Questions, thoughts, or comments? Contact Zach on Twitter: @ToledoZach