Great Expectation as Toledo Football Set for Grand Opening as Head Coach Makes Major Declaration

Toledo Football is gearing up for an electrifying start to its 2024 season as the Rockets prepare to face off against Duquesne this Thursday night. The much-anticipated showdown kicks off at 7:30 p.m. at the Glass Bowl, a venue that’s poised to be packed with fans ready for “The Biggest Party in Toledo.” The atmosphere promises to be buzzing with pre-game festivities including live music, a vibrant beer garden, and an impressive fly-over by the 180th Fighter Wing, making for a spectacular night of football and entertainment.

Toledo, under the guidance of Head Coach Jason Candle, is set to launch its season with a fresh roster but high expectations. Despite several new faces in the lineup, the Rockets are determined to uphold the high standards they’ve set in recent seasons. After an impressive run over the past two years, including a Mid-American Conference (MAC) title in 2022 and consecutive trips to the MAC Championship Game, Toledo is poised to continue its winning tradition. The Rockets were picked to finish second in the MAC coaches’ preseason poll, signaling that expectations remain high for this storied program.

Among the notable returners are six All-MAC players from last year’s 11-3 squad. Wide receiver Jerjuan Newton, kick returner Jacquez Stuart, and safety Maxen Hook, who were named to the first-team All-MAC, are back to lead the charge. They are joined by tight end Anthony Torres, placekicker Luke Pawlak, and defensive tackle Darius Alexander, who earned second-team and third-team honors respectively. This core of experienced and talented players provides a solid foundation as Toledo looks to build on its recent successes.

A key component of Toledo’s offense this season will be junior quarterback Tucker Gleason. With his experience and a roster full of highly regarded young talent, Gleason is expected to play a pivotal role in steering the Rockets’ offense. His ability to lead and perform under pressure will be crucial as Toledo aims to enhance its already impressive track record.

On the other side of the field, Duquesne, a competitive NCAA FCS team, is coming off a strong 2023 season. The Dukes secured a Northeast Conference (NEC) title with a 6-1 record in the league, although they fell short in the FCS playoffs against Youngstown State. Senior quarterback Darius Perrantes, a standout performer last season, returns to lead Duquesne. Perrantes earned first-team all-conference honors and was a finalist for the Walter Payton Award, which recognizes the FCS National Offensive Player of the Year. His impressive performance, including 2,324 passing yards and 21 touchdowns, makes him a formidable opponent for the Rockets.

The matchup between Toledo and Duquesne will be the first meeting between the two programs, adding an element of intrigue to the game. For Toledo, this encounter represents a chance to establish dominance early in the season and demonstrate their readiness to tackle both conference and national challenges.

The Rockets have a strong history against FCS schools, boasting a 28-2 record since the NCAA’s Division I split in 1978. Their only recent defeats to FCS teams came against McNeese State in 1980 and 1988, so Toledo’s track record suggests they will approach this game with confidence and determination.

Toledo’s impressive consistency is highlighted by their streak of avoiding losing seasons since 2009, which is among the longest in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Since Jason Candle took over as head coach in 2016, the Rockets have achieved the most wins in the MAC, showcasing a program that has consistently performed at a high level. Candle himself is on the cusp of becoming Toledo’s all-time winningest coach, needing just nine more victories to surpass Gary Pinkel’s record of 73 wins.

This season, the Rockets’ fans can look forward to seeing an exciting blend of seasoned veterans and promising new talent. The return of All-MAC players and the leadership of experienced quarterback Tucker Gleason are set to energize the team and its supporters. The coaching staff, led by Candle, has been preparing since mid-January, and there’s a palpable sense of confidence and readiness in the air as the team approaches this opening game.

As Coach Candle remarked, “It’s week one and obviously there are lots of challenges that come with that. New season, new players, new team. But this group has been hard at work since mid-January and I’m confident in where we’re at right now. We need to make sure we have a great week of practice to prepare for what I believe is a really strong and well-coached Duquesne team.”

The excitement surrounding the game is not just about the competition but also about the festive atmosphere that accompanies the season opener. With a near-capacity crowd expected, the Glass Bowl will be the epicenter of college football excitement in Toledo. Fans can look forward to a thrilling game, vibrant pre-game celebrations, and a chance to see how the Rockets will navigate their way through the 2024 season.

However, Toledo’s 2024 season opener against Duquesne is set to be a thrilling spectacle. With high expectations, a talented roster, and a passionate fan base, the Rockets are ready to make a statement as they embark on a new season. The game will be a key test for both teams and a chance for Toledo to demonstrate its readiness for the challenges that lie ahead. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, Thursday night promises to deliver an unforgettable experience of college football action.