MAC 2010-Toledo Rockets

  

2009 Record: 5-7 (3-5)
Head Coach: Tim Beckman (2nd season, 5-7)
Offensive Coordinator: Matt Campbell (2nd season)
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Ward (2nd season) and Paul Nichols (2nd season)
2009 Bowl Game: Not close...and not since 2005

Offense: QB Austin Danton was the main relief for the departed aaron Opelt last season, but he was pretty terrible in the spring and as many as 4 other QBs have now puth themselves into position to move past Danton on the depth chart. Expect as many as 4 backs to still be competeing for the starting RB job in fall camp as well. WR Eric Page is a star on offense, but who will get the ball to him ? The other two WR spots are also going to be given to new starters, with Jimmy Davidson and Kenny Stafford both leading the way to take jobs. 4 starters do return on the line, and TE Danny Noble is also back for another go.

Defense: The Rockets run a 3-3-5 set defensively, but lost star saftey Barry Church. The secondary only returns two starters, with CB Daxton swanson and FS Jermaine Robinson returning. Beckman brought in 3 JC players and a transfer from Iowa to try to build depth in the secondary. LB Archie Donald is the main star on the defense (he's the only one). Alex Johnson and Douglas Westbrook return at DE, but both tackles must be replaced.

Special Teams: Two kickers, Ryan Casano and Bret Brodbeck, are battling to be the starting PK, and Bill Claus returns to punt, but he was less than ok last season, averaging under 38 yards a kick.

2010 Schedule

Wins: 10/16 Kent State, 10/23 Ball State, 10/30 @ Eastern Michigan

Toss Up Games: 11/17 Bowling Green

Losses: 9/3 Arizona, 9/11 @ Ohio, 9/18 @ Western Michigan, 9/25 @ Purdue, 10/2 Wyoming, 10/9 @ Boise State, 11/9 @ Northern Illinois, 11/26 Central Michigan

The schedule is very difficult, especially when you understand the state of the Rocket program. 3 or 4 wins would be a success in my opinion.

Outlook: Sometimes you have to step back before you can step up. Toledo is basically being rebuilt, and Beckman should get a few seasons to put his stamp on the program. Don't expect too much from the Rockets, especially with all of the holes and the over ambitious schedule.