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.

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