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

Toledo 2015 Season Preview: Game By Game Predictions

Matt Campbell's Rockets are looking
for a breakout year in 2015.

My season preview of the 2015 Toledo Rockets continues, as I take a look into the Rockets' schedule going into the season and provide a game by game breakdown including my predictions. Obviously, take these with a grain of salt - I'm not perfect and my predictions will be off.

However, it's fun to look into and I'm interested to hear everyone's feedback on what the 2015 season has in store. With that all being said, it should be a tremendous season for Matt Campbell and the Rockets coming off of a 9-4 overall record in 2014. Even though it's WAY too early to think about, let's take a look anyway:

Week 1: Thursday, September 3rd - vs. Stony Brook

Toledo will be Stony
Brook's lone FBS
opponent in 2015.Week 

Let's be honest, Toledo will be favored heavily in this match-up with the Seawolves, who are a member of the Colonial Athletic Association in the FCS. However, don't overlook the fact that Toledo is Stony Brook's only FBS opponent on their 2015 schedule, which means they're going to give the Rockets all they have. Stony Brook was 5-7 overall last season under head coach Chuck Priore, who is entering his tenth season and is 57-47 as head man.

Stony Brook, located in New York, will make the trip to The Glass Bowl in week one and be heavily over matched. However, Rocket fans should look back to last year in week one of the 2014 season and remember trailing New Hampshire, 17-14 at halftime. Don't overlook the Seawolves, but depth will become a major part of this game and ultimately, Stony Brook will be overmatched, at least in the second half.

Prediction: Stony Brook 20 - Toledo 52
Bold Game Prediction: Toledo has three different runningbacks find the endzone.

Week 2: Saturday, September 12th - @ Arkansas

Toledo may have lucked out, at least slightly due to the location of where they'll face the Razorbacks in September. Rather than facing Arkansas at their home field in Fayetteville, the Rockets will play at Little Rock at War Memorial Stadium, where Arkansas plays one game per year.

Arkansas runningback Jonathan Williams will be load for the
Toledo defense to slow down. (Courtesy: Whole Hog Sports)

In this match-up, Toledo could struggle to run the ball, even with Kareem Hunt in the backfield. The Razorbacks allowed just 114 yards per game on the ground a season ago in a tough SEC. As a whole, Arkansas had the tenth best defense in the country allowing 19.2 points per game and will have another solid season as most starters return. For the Rockets, the key will be on the defensive side of the ball. Dan Enos, the former head coach of Central Michigan, is now the offensive coordinator at Arkansas and will likely implement his pro-style offense, which could benefit Toledo. The Rockets are excellent against the run, ranking fourteenth in the country in 2014. However, Arkansas quarterback Brandon Allen plays very efficiently and recorded a 20-5 touchdown to interception ratio last year. A big key to the game will be turnover ratio for Toledo, if they can control the ball and run their offense, they have a chance. However, if you allow the tough Arkansas defense to control you, it's game over. Arkansas doesn't really have a true go-to receiver and only had two receivers over 500 yards receiving last year. On the ground, however, the Razorbacks are a load to handle with Jonathan Williams and Alex Collins, both rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2014 and will return even better this fall.

Overall, I don't think it'll be a very high scoring game and it should be an attack of the backfields. The big difference to me is Toledo's offensive line versus the nasty defensive line of the Razorbacks. All in all, a close game, but Arkansas is victorious in Little Rock.

Prediction: Toledo 21 - Arkansas 34
Bold Game Prediction: Rockets held to less than 150 yards rushing (averaged 256 YPG in 2014)

Week 3: Saturday, September 19th - vs. Iowa State

For Toledo, it's a chance for revenge. For Iowa State, it's a chance to take care of business on the road. The Rockets fell to Iowa State in 2014, 37-30 in heartbreaking fashion but will get a chance to take one in front of the home crowd at The Glass Bowl this season. Iowa State is coming off of a 2-10 overall season, one win, of which came against the Rockets.

Kareem Hunt should lead the Rockets in the game against
Iowa State, who has a struggling run defense.

However, the Cyclones are building as senior quarterback Sam Richardson looks to take control in 2015. Richardson threw for 2,669 yards with 18 touchdowns and nine interceptions as a junior in 2014. Despite the solid stat line, he has zero targets to throw to. E.J. Bibbs was the Cyclones top receiver a year ago with 382 yards receiving and eight touchdowns. With that being said, Iowa State will have three decent targets this season in D'Vario Montgomery, Allen Lazard, and Quenton Bundrage, who returns from a knee injury in 2014.

The key for the Rockets is to run the football down the Cyclones' throats. Iowa State gave up 246 yards rushing per game last season, which was 123rd in the country. Once Kareem Hunt and Terry Swanson get free, it'll open up the passing game, which Iowa State ranked 122nd in passing yards per game a year ago as well. Overall, the Cyclones could (and will) struggle to stop the Toledo offense, which is even better this season. Like I've stated, I expect a much better season for the Rocket secondary, which returns Cam Cole and Cheatham Norrils and as long as Iowa State quarterback Sam Richardson continues to play erratically (53% completion percentage last year), it could be a good game for the Rockets to score a quality win against a Big 12 opponent.

Prediction: Iowa State 31 - Toledo 45
Bold Game Prediction: Toledo runningback Kareem Hunt rushes for 200+ yards.

Week 4: Saturday, September 26th - vs. Arkansas State

Ah, yes, a refreshing rematch from the 2014 GoDaddy Bowl in which Toledo ran up, through, and around the Red Wolf defense, en route to a 63-44 victory. Arkansas State will return their high-powered offense from last season, led by quarterback Fredi Knighten (3,277 passing yards and 35 total touchdowns in 2014), who is one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in all of college football. The Wolves also return Michael Gordon, who was an 1,100 yard rusher in 2014.

Arkansas State quarterback Fredi Knighten
was electric in 2014. (Photo: Religion News)

The difference in this game is the Arkansas State secondary and its new-look. The losses of Andrew Tryon, Sterling Young, and Frankie Jackson will leave a large void in the defensive backs with only safety Money Hunter returning as a starter, who recorded 54 solo tackles and two interceptions a year ago. No matter who the Toledo quarterback is (Ely or Woodside), they should be able to pick apart the Red Wolf defense, as long as the offensive line can protect from Chris Stone and company on the Arkansas State defensive line.

For Toledo: run, run, run, run, run. Could it be more obvious? The Red Wolves are also missing linebacker and defensive leader Qushaun Lee, who graduated, and already ranked 105th in the nation by giving up 205 rushing yards per game a year ago. It should be a big pay day for Kareem Hunt and Terry Swanson as they should be able to run through the A-State defense, similar to the 2014 GoDaddy Bowl. Arkansas State will be able to put up some major points in this game as well behind Knighten and Gordon, which is why a shootout type of match-up like this is so intriguing. Previously, I had Toledo losing a close one to the Red Wolves, but after seeing the Arkansas State losses in their secondary and linebacker Qushaun Lee, give me the Rockets.

Prediction: Arkansas State 38 - Toledo 45
Bold Game Prediction: It's the first 300+ yard passing performance of 2015 for the Toledo QB.

Week 5: Saturday, October 3rd - @ Ball State

After a 34-23 win over Ball State last season, the Rockets will look to continue the streak in 2015 and I see nothing stopping them. Ball State loses runningback Jahwan Edwards, who graduated, which leaves Horactio Banks in charge of running the football (353 yards in 2014). Aside from that, the quarterback play for the Cardinals last season was brutal between Jack Milas and Ozzie Mann. Despite Mann taking care of the ball (ten touc going. In the Ball State secondary, shutdown corner Eric Patterson also graduated (37 solos, three touchdowns, two interceptions), it was inconsistent and lacked big plays.

The Toledo offensive line should have a great game against
Ball State, who is replacing a big void on the defensive line.

On defense, Ball State loses Michael Ayers and Nick Miles on their defensive line, two leaders from last year. I see no reason why the Toledo offensive line can't protect Logan Woodside or Philip Ely (whoever wins the job) and get the passing gamenterceptions in 2014), which also leaves a large void.

Overall, Toledo should be able to jump out to a 1-0 MAC record following the week five match-up with the Cardinals in Muncie. It's never easy to play on the road, but with the losses that Ball State will suffer in 2015 after several graduations, Toledo should be able to walk away with a victory.

Prediction: Toledo 38 - Ball State 21
Bold Game Prediction: The Toledo offensive line does not allow a sack.

Week 6: Saturday, October 10th - vs. Kent State (Homecoming)

Toledo's defense should be rolling on defense against a Kent
State offense that will struggle.

It'll be a packed atmosphere at The Glass Bowl for the homecoming match-up with Kent State. The Golden Flashes are coming off of a brutal 2-10 overall season, in which their lone Mid-American Conference victory came against Akron in their final game. After ranking 123rd in total offense and 83rd in total defense a year ago, respectively, Kent State will need to rebound if they want to be taken seriously in 2015. It will all start with runningback Nick Holley. As a sophomore in 2014, Holley rushed for 516 yards and three touchdowns, but is a threat in the passing game as well with 199 receiving yards. However, Holley will have help running the ball this season. Senior runningback Trayion Durham returns after missing all of 2014 due to injury, he rushed for 766 yards in 2013.

The Rockets shouldn't have a problem. The Flashes provided a bit of a scare last year, despite a 30-20 win on the scoreboard for Toledo. However, if Kareem Hunt remains healthy for this game and the secondary isn't banged up, Toledo shouldn't have problems at home in front of a sell-out crowd.

Prediction: Kent State 17 - Toledo 35
Bold Game Prediction: Kent State is held to under 100 yards rushing.

Week 7: Saturday, October 17th - vs. Eastern Michigan

Senior wide receiver Alonzo Russell could be the center of
attack against Eastern Michigan.

Eastern Michigan is on the rise, seriously. It may not be a major rise, but they could be a six-game winner soon, which is big for the Eagles. However, this year isn't the year yet. Toledo will be able to run all over the Eagles once again, who ranked 126th in total offense with 15.2 points per game while ranking 125th in total defense, allowing 41 points per game. The 2-10 overall record last season is consistent for Eastern Michigan, who consistently rank in the bottom of college football's standings and statistics.

Kareem Hunt could honestly take the night off with Terry Swanson and Damion Jones-Moore in the backfield, Toledo will handle Eastern Michigan easily, just like they have the past decade.

Prediction: Eastern Michigan 17 - Toledo 42
Bold Game Prediction: Eastern Michigan allows 500+ yards of total offense to the Rockets.

Week 8: Saturday, October 24th - @ UMass

UMass quarterback, Blake Frohnapfel is due for another
breakout year in 2015. (Photo: Mass Live)

I'm being serious when I say that the UMass Minutemen could be one of the biggest surprises in all of college football this season. Obviously, the Minutemen still have drastic flaws on the defensive side of the ball, but offensively, UMass has outstanding star-power in quarterback Blake Frohnapfel and wide out Tajae Sharpe. Both Frohnapfel and Sharpe have a chance to be first team All-MAC this season and despite the graduation of tight end Jean Sifrin, UMass has a chance to win up to seven or eight games this season, especially in the MAC East.

Despite all of this UMass talk, they still ranked 105th in total defense a season ago and that number isn't likely to change all that much, especially against Toledo's high powered offense. Remember last year's match-up though? Toledo nearly gave in to the Minutemen, who fell to the Rockets, 42-35 in the final minute. This year, with the game at "home" for UMass, Toledo has to be on high guard against the upset.

Prediction: Toledo 38 - UMass 35
Bold Game Prediction: UMass' Quarterback Blake Frohnapfel throws for five touchdowns.

Week 9: Saturday, October 31st - Bye Week

Week 10: Tuesday, November 3rd - vs. Northern Illinois

It's the game on the schedule that everyone has circled. It's the game that decides the MAC West year after year. It's the game that Toledo struggles with the most, consistently falling to the Huskies and sealing their path to the MAC title game year after year. This season, it's different, there's a certain feeling among Rocket Nation that this is the year. This, this is the Rockets' time to get passed NIU.

The Toledo student section will play a big role in the Rockets'
match-up with Northern Illinois at The Glass Bowl.

Last season, the rankings weren't impressive. Northern Illinois ranked 50th in total offense, but ran the ball particularly well with 246 yards per game, 10th in the country. Quarterback Drew Hare had a great 2014 season, particularly on the ground with 900 rushing yards and eight touchdowns for the year. Aside from him, Cameron Stingily has graduated so the curtain has opened for Joel Bauagnon, who rushed for 655 yards and nearly six yards a carry as as sophomore last season.

Ultimately, I think Toledo finally gets over the hump. Northern Illinois isn't an offensive powerhouse anymore and Toledo's defense will be much improved as well. I'll take Toledo at home, but it will be an extremely close contest.

Prediction: Northern Illinois 24 - Toledo 31
Bold Game Prediction: Toledo holds NIU quarterback Drew Hare to under 25 rushing yards.

Week 11: Tuesday, November 10th - @ Central Michigan

Toledo has taken the past five contests between the Chippewas and Rockets, but this year could be a bit different. First year head coach John Bonamego will attempt to create offense this season despite the graduations of Thomas Rawls and wide receiver Titus Davis. Defensively, Central Michigan could struggle after loses of Justin Cherocci and Leterrius Walton as well, despite ranking 46th in the country defensively last year.

First-year Central Michigan
head coach, John Bonamego.

As illustrated, Central Michigan could struggle a bit due to graduations, but first-year head coach John Bonamego should take the program back to relevance soon. For this particular game, I think it's somewhat low scoring. It'll be a pro-tempo versus spread offense and a contest of tempo and game speed, Toledo looking to speed it up. Even though Toledo is on the road, I think they squeeze out another victory over the Chips, but I think that streak will end soon. The Rockets will need to control quarterback Cooper Rush defensively, but I think they're up the challenge.

Prediction: Toledo 24 - Central Michigan 21
Bold Game Prediction: Toledo wins on a game-winning field goal in the fourth quarter. 

Week 12: Tuesday, November 17th - @ Bowling Green

The Battle of I-75, do I need to say more? This is a huge rivalry game in the Mid-American Conference, but one that Toledo has handled for the past five years. If Bowling Green quarterback, Matt Johnson remains healthy, the Falcons should have a real shot to take out the Rockets finally. However, Bowling Green struggled defensively, ranking 108th in the nation, giving up just over 33 points per game. With losses of their top seven defensively players, the defense could be even worse than last year, even though there isn't much more room for error.

Toledo runningback, Kareem Hunt.

Runningback Travis Greene recorded 949 yards and twelve touchdowns for the Falcons as a junior in 2014 and will be even better this season. Also, the key target is sophomore Roger Lewis, who had a breakout season as a true-freshman in 2014 with 1,093 receiving yards and seven touchdowns.

In this game, I still think Toledo has the weapons. The Rockets haven't lost much on the offensive side of the ball while Bowling Green attempts to piece together their defense. Kareem Hunt should have another great game against the Falcons as well, leading to a victory late.

Prediction: Toledo 28 - Bowling Green 27
Bold Game Prediction: Kareem Hunt scores in the final minutes to give Toledo the victory.

Week 13: Friday, November 27th -vs. Western Michigan

How about the Broncos? The NCAA's largest turn-around last season, going from 1-11 overall in 2013 to a standout 8-4 overall in 2014. Broncos head coach, P.J. Fleck has turned the Broncos around and will likely be even better in 2015 after being outstanding on the recruiting trails.

Toledo's defense will have their hands full with Jarvion
Franklin all night long.

In 2015, Zach Terrell will lead Western Michigan offensively as a junior. Last season, he threw for 3,443 yards, 26 touchdowns and ten interceptions and should have another great season with even more weapons. At runningback, Jarvion Franklin is coming off of a season in which he was named MAC Offensive Player of the Year as a true-freshman with 1,551 yards and 24 touchdowns. On defense, Western will need to replace their top five defensive backs and could be extremely young and immature in the secondary.

Despite those losses, I expect Western Michigan to win the MAC West this season as they ultimately defeat Toledo in the Glass Bowl to give the Broncos the 2015 MAC Championship game bid for the west division.

Prediction: Western Michigan 38 - Toledo 28
Bold Game Prediction: Jarvion Franklin rushes for most yardage of any RB against Toledo in 2015.

OVERALL: 10-2 (7-1 in MAC)

As a whole, Toledo is unbelievably talented in 2015. They have all skill players coming back and although they lost all five offensive linemen from 2014, the Rockets should be incredible, as usual, offensively.

Defensively, Toledo's injured defensive backs will return in 2015, which will have a drastic effect on the team overall. Up front, Toledo will be dominant on the front seven led by senior Trent Voss.

I'm not saying Toledo will not lose more than two games, but for my predictions, I don't see them falling in any other games besides in Arkansas and Western Michigan. Obviously, there could be a slip up somewhere along the way for the Rockets, such as Central Michigan or Bowling Green. Iowa State will be a huge game as well, but if all goes well, Toledo could end up flirting with a Top-25 ranking towards seasons' end.




QUESTIONS? COMMENTS? Interact with Zach on Twitter: @ToledoZach

Toledo Football Preview: Five Questions Entering 2015

We're just over one month away from college football returning. Therefore, it's time to start our predictions, season previews, and of course, it's time to start asking questions.

For the Toledo Rockets, the 2014 campaign was another consistent season - no MAC championship and still no victory over Northern Illinois. However, last year was a success nonetheless. After the 9-4 overall record last season and a 63-44 victory over Arkansas State in the GoDaddy Bowl, the momentum is shooting upward for the Rockets. Despite last season's success, there are still some questions entering the 2015 season for Matt Campbell and Toledo, as always. These questions, if solved, could finally result in that MAC Championship that has been eluding the Rockets since 2004.



1) How does Toledo replace all five starters on the offensive line from last season?

Junior Storm Norton will lead the Toledo offensive line in
2015. (Courtesy: Whitmer Football)

Toledo had one of the most dominant offensive lines in all of college football last season, allowing just 17 sacks throughout the season. Last season, three of the five starters along the offensive line were All-MAC selections - now, they've all graduated. In my eyes, the biggest question standing over the Rockets right now is how to replace the offensive line, which was the best in the MAC a season ago. Toledo ranked 17th in the country with 6.55 yards per play, which is obviously a credit to runningback Kareem Hunt, but the offensive line deserves a large portion of that credit. Now, it'll be a fresh start in 2015.

Junior tackle Storm Norton, who filled in for three games last season for the Rockets, is the only offensive lineman with any experience on the roster for the Rockets. However, redshirt-freshman guard Bill Weber, a Dallas native, could be solid on the interior for Toledo. Weber has a large frame at 6'4", 325-pounds and was a highly sought after recruit out of Coppel high school in Texas.

At the other guard spot could be redshirt-sophomore, Nate Jeppesen. A 6'4", 292-pound body, Jeppesen won Toledo practice squad lineman of the year in 2013 before a season-ending injury ended his 2014 campaign. Another name to watch out for is junior Paul Perschon, who is solid in run protection and someone who should be a starter when week one rolls around. With no indications who will land at what guard spot or who will replace Greg Mancz at center, there is a lot of speculation. The one certain thing about the offensive line is: there will be big shoes to fill on that offensive line in 2015.

2) After an injury-plagued & dismal season in 2014, how will the secondary respond in 2015?
Dismal. Depressing. Unbearable. Mind boggling. Those are brutally honest words and descriptions of the Toledo pass defense in 2014. However, let's make it well documented that those struggles (let's hope) were due to the losses of veteran leaders Cam Cole and Cheatham Norrils in the secondary. There's nobody to truly blame for how bad the secondary was last season as we can attribute that to the youth and inexperience of the cornerbacks. True freshman Treyvon Mathis was pressed into duty right away at Toledo, not as a nickel or dime corner, but as the main lockdown defender, which clearly didn't work. Despite the youth and struggles last year, Mathis was still one of the biggest bright spots towards the end of the year for the Rockets. Aside from Mathis, sophomore cornerback Jordan Martin was also rushed into play in 2014 due to injury. The Toledo defense also ranked 126th in the country in passing yards allowed per game with 291, but let's move on from last year - there are brighter times on the horizon.

In 2014, true freshman Treyvon Mathis found himself starting
for the Rockets after an injury-plague first few games.

Forget about last year, it was defensive coordinator Jon Heacock's first season implementing his system and style of defense and with the young and inexperience, there were going to be some struggles. This season, Toledo will be without graduated safety, Jordan Haden who was All-MAC a season ago. Despite that loss, the Rocket defensive secondary should be much improved. With the return of seniors Cam Cole and Cheatham Norrils, expect more man-to-man coverage. Cole and Norrils will have help over the top as well as University of Alabama-Birmingham transfer, Rolan Milligan will take over safety duties aside senior Chaz Whittaker and junior Dejuan Rogers. This season, Jordan Martin and Treyvon Mathis will be the third and fourth corners for the Rockets rather than first and second, which is huge as well.

In the MAC, you get used to poor defense and offensive shootouts, but this season should be a solid one for the Toledo secondary. Yes I'm serious. With the injured veterans returning and transfer Rolan Milligan, who is eligible immediately after UAB shut down their program, the future is bright for Jon Heacock and his defense in 2015.

3) Can Kareem Hunt Remain Healthy for Big Games in 2015?

Toledo runningback Kareem Hunt is beginning to receive
well-deserved national attention.

The secret is out, Toledo has one of the most explosive athletes and one of the best runningbacks in all of college football in junior Kareem Hunt. Hunt rushed for 1,631 yards with nearly eight yards per carry and 16 touchdowns in just ten games. The 5'11", 215-pounder is quick and shifty but will run directly through opposing defenses as well. The only question with Hunt is his ability to remain healthy. Despite not having major issues last year, Hunt was still sidelined for three games with a foot injury. Obviously, that foot healed extremely well as we could see from the 271 yard, five touchdown performance in the GoDaddy Bowl on national television, but it could still be a concern.

The first few weeks of 2015, expect Kareem Hunt to be as good as advertised, but can he remain healthy for long amounts of time? For instance, Toledo's four biggest in-conference games are the final four weeks of the season, when everyone is banged up to some extent. The Rockets can't afford to have No. 3 sidelined for any reason when they take on Northern Illinois, Central Michigan, Bowling Green, and Western Michigan. Those four games are as tough as it will get in the Mid-American Conference and without Kareem Hunt, Toledo is a different team. I'm not saying Toledo can't win without Hunt, but teams will adjust their defensive gameplans without Hunt running the football.

Runningbacks take more of a beating than anyone on a football field, which is why NFL runningbacks have an average of a three-year career. This is the reason why Rocket fans should be concerned about Kareem Hunt, we all know he's far from human, he's more of a monster on the football field than a human, but injuries happen to anybody.

4) How does Toledo replace the best kicker in MAC history, Jeremiah Detmer?

Honestly, the loss of Jeremiah Detmer could be Toledo's
biggest going into the 2015 season. Yes, seriously, a kicker.

You know who gets zero love? Absolutely none whatsoever? Kickers, punters, and snappers - otherwise known as specialists. Jeremiah Detmer was a tremendous specialist and was recognized as one of the best kickers in MAC history, if not the best. Detmer was 17-of-22 on field goals in 2014 but was a 84.4 percent career kicker, the best mark of any kicker in MAC history.

Not only kicking, but special teams in general are underrated. Several college football games are decided by kickers and whether they can, or can't, hit a clutch game-winning field goal from whatever distance. With Detmer, you absolutely had one of the best and most-clutch kickers in the nation, but now the questions will arise.

Toledo welcomed in Georgia-native, Jameson Vest in the 2014 recruiting class and while Vest will get a chance to earn the kicking job this fall, the Rockets are more likely to go with Sam Vucelich, a sophomore out of Powell, Ohio. Not only is the field goal job a major question mark, but kickoffs are as well. Nearly every kickoff Detmer kicked in 2014 went for a touchback if he truly wanted it to (sometimes it's a better strategy to pin an opponent deep rather than a touchback). Now, Toledo could be losing a lot of field position if Vucelich, Vest, and punter Nick Ellis or Michael Julian are unable to kickoff with the authority of Mr. Detmer. Pay attention to special teams in 2015, seriously - the difference between the opponents beginning at their own 25 yard line compared to their 35 yard line - is major.

5) With the graduations of Dwight Macon & Justin Olack, who steps up as No. 3 Receiver?

Toledo wide receiver Corey Jones is on the Hornung watch list
for the country's most versatile player in 2015.

It seems like this is a growing trend - who is going to step up at wide receiver? In 2013, the graduation of Bernard 'Speedy' Reedy had everyone wondering, so Corey Jones filled in for him in 2014. Now, it's happening again with the combined production of Justin Olack and Dwight Macon, both of whom graduated. Obviously, Toledo has senior Alonzo Russell, one of the best receivers in the MAC along with Corey Jones, who nearly led the MAC in receptions a year ago. With Russell and Jones leading the way, the third and fourth wide receiver roles will be a nice and easy position for whoever would like to fill it.

A year ago, Russell and Jones combined for 1,612 receiving yards, which was nearly 53% of Toledo's yardage through the air. Besides them, Justin Olack and Dwight Macon carried a lot of the slack as well. Olack was a big 6'4" possession receiver who the Rockets will dearly miss. Now, the Rockets will obviously be using a lot of junior, Kishon Wilcher in the slot. In fact, head coach Matt Campbell called Wilcher one of, if not the fastest player that he's every coached. Wilcher recorded 270 receiving yards a year ago and will be dangerous in the slot in 2015.

Aside from Wilcher, the tight ends are becoming more prominent in the Toledo passing game. Senior tight end Alex Zmolik could be a nice fourth option in the spread offense. Zmolik had just 204 receiving yards as a junior in 2014, but will grow this season. Digging deeper, sophomore Cody Thompson will certainly see the field frequently in 2015 along with redshirt freshmen Jon'vea Johnson and tight end Davion Riley, who could also be in the mix. Thompson, out of Huron, Ohio, played quite a bit his true-freshman season in 2014 despite not being a big name on the stat sheet. Despite the lack of stats, Thompson caught the Rockets' only touchdown in their spring game as well. All in all, Kishon Wilcher, Cody Thompson, and Alex Zmolik will most likely see the field the most aside from Russell and Jones, but look for the Rockets to use a big-time rotation at the fourth receiver slot in 2015 which could include Zach Rogers and Zach Yousey as well.





5A) One Last Question - Not One To Worry About

Toledo quarterback Philip Ely is ready to win
his job back in 2015.

Let's talk quarterbacks. Last year, it was a big quarterback competition between Alabama transfer Philip Ely and Logan Woodside. Ely won the job, but suffered a season-ending injury against Missouri in the second game, which opened the door for Mr. Woodside. In reality, Woodside played extremely well last season with 2,269 passing yards, 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Yet, I've heard that Philip Ely is a better overall fit in the offense and can run the offense a lot better. My mentality, however, is if it isn't broke, don't fix it. Woodside proved himself a year ago, but I'm not a Toledo football coach. In reality, either quarterback would do a tremendous job running the Rocket offense, which is why the quarterback battle really isn't a question and something to worry about.

Ely will be ready for fall camp as I've heard and Woodside has been training extremely hard, obviously not ready to give up his position just yet. In their shadows is true freshman quarterback, Mitch Guadagni. Let me tell you, Guadagni is a natural athlete and an absolute stud. In fact, don't be shocked if he's one of the best quarterbacks in Toledo history once his career is over. Expect him to redshirt in 2015, but once Ely and Woodside are gone, no worries. Now let's que the quarterback competition.

Thanks for Reading! Interact with Zach - Questions/Comments/Talk about Toledo Football? On Twitter: @ToledoZach

Mid-American Conference - 12 Players to Watch in 2013

Northern Illinois quarterback, Jordan
Lynch is looking to have another great
season as a senior.
Picture Courtesy: ESPN.com

1. Jordan Lynch, QB, Northern Illinois: Who can easily forget the memorable junior season from Jordan Lynch last season? Not only did he total for nearly 5,000 yards of total offense, but he led the Huskies to the Discover Orange Bowl, the first BCS bowl game in Mid-American Conference history. Lynch alone rushed for 1,815 yards, setting a new FBS single season record by a quarterback. However, that was only Lynch's junior season. This year, Lynch is a senior with raised expectations. After finishing seventh in Heisman voting last season (which I felt should have been higher), he'll be looking for more success this season in DeKalb with his teammates growing older around him. As if Lynch isn't a big enough weapon alone, the Huskies also return the two top wide receivers from their stellar season last year in Martel Moore and Tommylee Lewis. Look for even more success this season for last year's MAC MVP. 
2. David Fluellen, RB, Toledo: A 1,500 yard rushing season as a junior along with thirteen rushing touchdowns made Toledo running back, David Fluellen an All-MAC First-Team selection last season. This year, the Rockets may lean on Fluellen once again. Obviously, the Toledo up-tempo offense is difficult for defenses to defend, especially when you spread four wide receivers wide and hand the ball to Fluellen, who has the ability to hit the hole with speed. Fluellen was also a threat in the passing game, catching 32 passes for 246 yards. Despite the receiving success, Fluellen averaged 5.8 yards a carry last season which made short third downs an easy decision for the Rocket coaching staff. Recently, Fluellen was named to the Doak Walker preseason watch list, and he won't disappoint that selection, look for a tremendous season for the Toledo runnig back.
3. Dri Archer, RB, Kent State: A true all-around star is the first thing you think about when it comes to Golden Flashes running back, Dri Archer. He'll make impacts in the rushing game unlike many can as shown by his 1,429 yard rushing season as a junior last year. Other than the run game, Archer is a tremendous threat out of the backfield, he recorded 561 yards on 39 receptions and four touchdowns a season ago. This year, the sky is the limit for this Kent State running back, he's elusive and a speed threat and he's also had another year to grow and get stronger. Watch for big things from Archer in the Golden Flashes uniform for the final season.
4. Bernard Reedy, WR, Toledo: The reason I have Reedy on this list is due to the fact that he is on

   

   Toledo wide receiver, Bernard Reedy should find the
   endzone several times this season as a senior.
   Picture Courtesy: Baynews9.com

   pace for a breakout season. With fellow senior, Terrance Owens returning at quarterback, this duo will find the endzone several times this year. Last season, Reedy was named to the All-MAC offense first team after a season which he totaled 89 receptions, 1,105 yards, and six touchdowns. The reason why Reedy is so impactful is because the Rockets have yet to find wide receivers number three and four. Reedy and Alonzo Russell have been a great duo together in the receiving core, but other than those two, there is not much to report. Owens and Reedy will be hooking up several times this season, so watch for Reedy to find the endzone several times during his senior campaign. 
5. Khalil Mack, LB, Buffalo: What a season last season for Mack. Not only did he rack up 90 total tackles, but he also recorded eight sacks and was a bright spot for the dim Buffalo Bulls program. This season, Mack is on the Lombardi, Butkus, Nagurski, and Bednarik award watch lists. Mack is a dominating presence who has been anchoring the Bulls linebacking core for the past three seasons. Mack made an impact during his freshman, sophomore, and junior seasons. However, this season the spotlight is on for Mack to really build a name for himself at the next level.
6. Keith Wenning, QB, Ball State: A player on the 2013 Maxwell watch list is Ball State quarterback, Keith Wenning. Wenning has proved that he can carry the work load for the Cardinals, after all he has started 33 straight games. After attempting 71 passes last season against Northern Illinois, you could tell the coaches trusted him completely. With returning weapons at wide receiver, I expect even bigger things from Wenning during his senior campaign. After throwing for 3,095 yards along with 24 touchdowns last season, he was named to the All-MAC second team. Despite the excellent season last year, Wenning had the spotlight stole from him by Jordan Lynch, who was well deserving. However, this season Wenning will need to outperform Lynch if he wants more national attention.
7. Willie Snead, WR, Ball State: A stellar sophomore season for Willie Snead gained him national attention a season ago. Last season, Snead made a name for himself after totaling 89 passes for 1,148 yards. Not only that, but Snead was tied for first in the nation with 58 players of 10 yards or more. Now, Snead is looking to build off of that for his junior season. Not only is Snead returning, but his quarterback is as well. Ball State returns quarterback Keith Wenning, who was one of the top quarterbacks in the conference last season, which can only help the outlook for Snead this season.
8. Zurlon Tipton, RB, Central Michigan: As I've said before, I don't base this list off of what these players did last season, this is for the upcoming 2013 season. With that being said, there is no limit for Zurlon Tipton of Central Michigan this season. Last season, with Ryan Radcliff as the starting quarterback, Tipton rushed for 1,492 yards. This season, there is a quarterback controversy in Mount Pleasant. With that, expect Zurlon to carry the load, that means big time numbers from him once again. Tipton is a senior this year, and one of the only offensive skilled position seniors, which means even more carries and more leadership upon his shoulder. Expect at least a 1,500 yard season and several All-MAC awards coming his way at season's end.
9. BooBoo Gates, DB, Bowling Green: Last season was a solid season for Gates, who anchored the 

   

   Bowling Green defensive back, BooBoo Gates will be
    a top defender in the Mid-American Conference this year.
   Picture Courtesy: ToledoBlade.com

   Bowling Green defense. However, this season I fully expect him to be in the running for MAC Defensive Player of the Year. During Gates' junior season he totaled 41 tackles and two interceptions, just two stats that should be greatly on the rise this season, that is if MAC offenses even want to throw his way.
10. Justin Cherocci, LB, Central Michigan: This confuses me. Explain to be how a guy who records 132 total tackles as a sophomore doesn't make an All-MAC defensive team and only gets named to the 2013 All-MAC defensive third team watch list? No. That's a joke! Justin Cherocci is a beast, he reads plays like very few can in the Mid-American Conference. Cherocci was fifth in the MAC with his 132 tackles and ranked 19th nationally, but can't even get mentioned as a top player in the conference? Well here it is, I'll be the one to give Cherocci some love. Not only did he record triple digits in tackles, but he had eight games this season in which he recorded double digits in the tackle column. This season, as only a junior, look for him to emerge as one of the top linebackers in the conference as a truly underestimated player.
11. Tyler Tettleton, QB, Ohio: The reason why Tettleton is on this list and not other great MAC 
    quarterbacks? The pass proficiency. 18 touchdowns versus four interceptions, that stat really stands out. Tettleton takes care of the ball, while being extremely productive for the Bobcats. Tettleton was hiden behind three MAC quarterbacks last season in Jordan Lynch, Keith Wenning, and Zac Dysert of Miami. However, this season, that will change. Tettleton threw for 2,844 yards last season with the 18 touchdowns that I mentioned, and now is a redshirt senior who is looking for some of the MAC spotlight. Ohio will be a dangerous team in the Mid-American Conference, and guess who the leader of the Bobcats is? That's right, none other than Tyler Tettleton.
12. Gabe Martin, LB, Bowling Green: Originally, I wanted the list down to ten, however, it's hard to leave a player like Gabe Martin off of the list. The reason you see Martin's name on this list isn't because of last year's production. It's because of the production he can have this season. Martin had a good redshirt sophomore season recording a team-high 70 tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Along with BooBoo Gates, the Bowling Green defense had a great season last year, but looks to become even better this season. Martin has a talent to get into the backfield and blow plays up, which is why I fully expect him to improve off of his All-MAC defensive first team season a year ago.

Questions? Comments? Contact me on Twitter: @ZHarig23

Toledo Rockets Season Preview 2013

Head Coach: Matt Campbell (10-4 in one season)
2012 Record: 9-4 (6-2 in Mid-American Conference, second in the MAC West division)
Offensive Starters Returning: 9
Offensive Starters Lost: 2
Defensive Starters Returning: 4
Defensive Starters Lost: 7
Lost Leadership: LB Dan Molls, LB Rober
t Bell, S Mark Singer, S Jermaine Robinson
Key Returnees: QB Terrance Owens, RB David Fluellen, WR Bernard Reedy, WR Alonzo Russell, DB Cheatham Norrils, DB Junior Sylvestre, LB Trent Voss, DL Jayrone Elliott

What They're Saying: USA Today has ranked the Toledo Rockets as the 44th best team in the FBS in their 2013 preseason rankings.

The Toledo Rockets will have a difficult non-conference
schedule, opening at Florida and Missouri.
Picture Courtesy: UTRockets.com

Last Season's Summary: A 9-4 overall record last season was highlighted by a monumental victory on October 20 against the 21st-ranked Cincinnati Bearcats. Despite the prestigious victory, the Rockets still lost two of the bigger conference games on their schedule to Ball State and Northern Illinois, each by a touchdown. The Rockets would ultimately finish behind Northern Illinois for the third consecutive season as the Huskies headed to a BCS bowl game. Despite the two loses, the Rockets would still find themselves in the Idaho Potato Bowl against Utah State. Rarely will you see a Matt Campbell coached offense only put up fifteen points, but that's exactly what the Rockets did in the bowl game, losing 41-15 to the Aggies to finish the season.

Last Season's Team Statistics: (Source: NCAA.com)
Total Offense: 446 yards per game, 31st Nationally, 3rd in Mid-American Conference
Passing Yards: 252 per game, 48th Nationally, 5th in Mid-American Conference
Rushing Yards: 193 per game, 35th Nationally, 4th in Mid-American Conference
Red Zone Defense: Opponent Red Zone percentage: 69%, 11th Nationally, 2nd in Mid-American Conference

2013 Offensive Outlook:

You can't spell TOLEDO without the T and the O. Terrance
Owens should have a tremendous season for Rockets once
again.

Strengths: You can't look at the Toledo offense without noticing they'll have nine returning offensive players,  and bring back many skilled position players. Among those returning, are three seniors who all had breakout junior seasons. Quarterback Terrance Owens will return after a junior season which included passing for 2,700 yards and 14 touchdowns. Along with Owens, running back David Fluellen also returns. After rushing for nearly 1,500 yards and 13 touchdowns last season, he was named to the Doak Walker preseason watch list. As if those two returnees aren't enough, Toledo also brings back their number one wide receiver, Bernard Reedy. Reedy recorded 88 receptions for 1,100 yards and 6 touchdowns during his junior campaign, and you can
only expect that number to rise this season. Toledo head coach, Matt Campbell has been known for his explosive offenses during his time both as the Rockets offensive coordinator and his one season at the helm, and expect this season to be no different. Not many teams can say that they have three senior starters at all three offensive skilled positions, but it's something the Rockets can say. Look for Fluellen to be a huge factor in Campbell's spread offense once again, but Terrance Owens is also poised for a breakout season if Reedy can remain healthy and if the Rockets can find more weapons behind him at wide out.

Weakness: The Toledo Rockets struggled to find wide receiver depth behind Bernard Reedy and Alonzo Russell last season. Reedy and Russell combined for a bit over 2,000 receiving yards during the 2012 campaign, which is over two-thirds of the Rockets passing total. Other than Reedy and Russell, the Rockets tried several other receivers such as Justin Olack, Cassisus McDowell, and Dwight Macon, who all struggled to get consistent receptions. With the Toledo offense featuring four wide receivers in several offensive sets, the Rockets will need to find at least a third productive receiver, and Justin Olack could be that guy. Olack made nineteen catches for 260 yards last season, but needs to be more consistent this season. If the Rockets get Olack going, it will just add another weapon to Terrance Owens' disposal, which could be lethal to MAC defenses.

2013 Defensive Outlook:

Toledo defensive end, Christian Smith is
looking for a productive senior season.

Strengths: With only four returning starters, the Rockets need to fill some holes on defense. However, a lot of productivity will return on the defensive line. Among the returning players is defensive tackle, Elijah Jones. Jones was a consistent run stopper on the Toledo defense last season, recording 31 tackles in the thirteen games. Along with Jones on the defensive line, is one of the defensive leaders on the 2013 squad, Christian Smith. Despite the large expectations for Smith, he is coming off of a knee injury which kept him out during the final eight games of the 2012 season. However, if he can stay healthy this season, Smith can provide the pass rushing defensive end that the Rockets need. Despite Smith getting most of the attention at defensive end, opposing offenses won't be able to relax on the other side of the defensive line either. Despite a lackadaisical 2012 campaign, Jayrone Elliot will return on the other side of the defensive line. Elliot has a chance to be extremely productive in his senior season, a chance to improve off of the 18 tackles and six sacks that he recorded last season.

Weakness: Look at all of those question marks in the secondary and at linebacker. The Rockets are going to have some problems filling the experience and production need gfrom last season, specially at linebacker. Last season's Rocket linebacking core were led by Dan Molls and Robert Bell, who are both trying to make NFL rosters right now. This season, sophomore Trent Voss will be leaned upon. Voss had a productive freshman season at Toledo after recording 13 tackles against Coastal Carolina and 12 tackles against Akron. However, what about around Voss? Dawalyn Harper will be seeing the field a lot more this season, if he doesn't find himself in a starters role, despite not playing often last season. Inexperience could be an issue with the Rockets defense this upcoming season, especially with the added expectation and leadership placed on sophomore linebacker, Trent Voss.

Bottom Line: It should be a great year for the Toledo Rockets. The returning offensive lightning will be crucial due to the inexperienced defense. The object of the game: score more than the other team, and Toledo's offense will be great at doing that with Owens, Fluellen, and Reedy returning. On defense, look for Trent Voss to breakout and hope for a productive year from the seniors on the defensive line. The secondary will be under a lot of stress, as they typically are in the Mid-American Conference. Jordan Haden will also be leaned upon in the defensive backfield and we'll see his leadership grow throughout the season. Toledo is a serious MAC contender this season, and November 20th against the Northern Illinois Huskies may just decide the MAC West again this season, as it typically does. Also, I'm a serious believer in the Rockets against the Florida Gators in week one, it'll be a closer game than most expect.

Schedule/My Predictions:

August 31 - @ Florida - L 31-45

September 7 - @ Missouri - W 34-27

September 14 - Eastern Washington - W 48-21

September 21 - @ Central Michigan - W 38-31

September 28 - @ Ball State - W 31-24

October 5 - Western Michigan - W 38-24

October 19 - Navy - W 31-17

October 26 - @ Bowling Green - W 38-35

November 2 - Eastern Michigan - W 45-14

November 12 - Buffalo - W 38-20

November 20 - Northern Illinois - L 24-38

November 29 - @ Akron - W 35-24

Overall: 10-2 MAC: 7-1