Hustle Belt: All Posts by Justin KruseMAC Football, MAC Basketball, MAC Recruiting, MAC Baseball and all of the other #MACtion hijinks in between - hustlebeltblog@gmail.comhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50387/hustle-fav.png2015-12-20T15:42:02-05:00https://www.hustlebelt.com/authors/justin-kruse/rss2015-12-20T15:42:02-05:002015-12-20T15:42:02-05:00Toledo and Temple meet up for Boca Raton Bowl
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<p>The Toledo Rockets will try to secure their first 10 win season since 2001 when they head to Boca Raton to square off with the nationally ranked Temple Owls. </p> <p>Jason Candle will face a formidable opponent in his debut as the head coach of the University of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets" class="sbn-auto-link">Toledo Rockets</a> (9-2) when the midnight blue and gold head to Boca Raton to square off with the nationally ranked <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/temple-owls" class="sbn-auto-link">Temple Owls</a> (10-3).</p>
<p>The Owls will enter the December 22 contest seeking a school record 11th win of the season, while the Rockets pursue their first 10-win season since 2001.</p>
<p>While the 2015 season has been a tremendous success for both the Toledo and Temple football programs, both teams will enter the contest at Florida Atlantic University Stadium following late season disappointment. After an 8-1 start, Temple finished the season 2-2, getting routed by three touchdowns at South Florida and ultimately falling 24-13 to Houston in the inaugural <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/american" class="sbn-auto-link">American</a> Athletic Conference Championship. Meanwhile Toledo suffered the most disappointing of defeats in their season finale, losing at home to Western Michigan 35-30, thus costing the Rockets the opportunity to take on Bowling Green in the Mid-American Conference Championship.</p>
<p>Following the defeat to Western Michigan, Rockets head coach <span>Matt Campbell</span> was named to the same position at Iowa State, taking multiple assistant coaches and staff members with him to Ames. Offensive coordinator <a href="http://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-football/2015/12/2/9836972/jason-candle-toledo-rockets-football-new-head-coach">Jason Candle was named head coach</a>, which should provide continuity for the Rockets that will lean on multiple graduate assistants to fill the gaps created with the coaching departures.</p>
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<p>Regardless of how many coaches the Rockets have at their disposal, they will look to control the game on the offensive side of the ball with the two headed running back combination of <span>Kareem Hunt</span> and <span>Terry Swanson</span>. While Hunt received the bulk of the carries for the Rockets down the stretch of the season, including four straight 100-yard plus rushing performances, Swanson still managed to rush for 870 yards with an impressive 6.6 yards per carry average. As a team the Rockets finished the regular season ranked 26th in the nation in total rushing, averaging over 213 yards per contest.</p>
<p>On the defensive side of the ball, the Rockets will lean on two seniors in defensive lineman <span>Orion Jones</span> and defensive back <span>Cheatham Norrils</span>. Jones led the Rockets in tackles for loss and sacks in 2015 and was named a first team all-conference performer. Norrils, also a first team all-conference selection, led Toledo in interceptions and finished third on the team in total tackles.</p>
<p>For the Owls, the best news following the 2015 regular season is that head coach Matt Rhule will be returning to Philadelphia to lead Temple next season. Rhule was rumored to be a candidate for multiple higher profile positions, but his return should help the growing momentum surrounding the program.</p>
<p>When looking at Temple it starts and ends with an elite defense led by linebacker <span>Tyler Matakevich</span>, who was named a first-team all-American by the Football Writers Association of America. Matakevich, a Connecticut native, leads the team in tackles and tackles for loss and won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Chuck Bednarik Award as the nation's best defender.</p>
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<p>While Matakevich is a national star, the defensive unit as a whole held opponents to just over 19 points per game and ranked in the top 20 in total defense. Defensive linemen <span>Matt Ioannidis</span> and Nate D. Smith anchor a strong defensive front and joined Matakevich as first team all American Athletic Conference selections along with safety <span>Alex Wells</span>.</p>
<p>Offensively, the Owls will feature junior running back <span>Jahad Thomas</span>, who led the team with 1,257 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns and was also an all-conference selection. Statistically, the Rockets were very strong in 2015 against the run, finishing 11th in rushing yards allowed per game at 115.5 per contest. However, Thomas presents a more dynamic threat than the Rockets have faced in recent MAC play and containing the Owls rushing attack will be key for Toledo.</p>
<p>For both teams, a win in the second annual Boca Raton Bowl will finish off a tremendous season, that while the ultimate goal of a conference championship may not have been met, a potential record 11th win for Temple and a 10th win for Toledo means there is plenty at stake.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-football/2015/12/20/10417200/boca-raton-bowl-preview-toledo-rockets-temple-owlsJustin Kruse2015-11-04T13:30:02-05:002015-11-04T13:30:02-05:00MAC Men's Basketball Preview: Toledo Rockets
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<p>After losing three starters to graduation, the Rockets will lean on youth this season </p> <p>The University of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a> were the consensus pick to win the MAC Championship a season ago with aspirations to end an <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/march-madness">NCAA Tournament</a> drought that dated back to 1980. Unfortunately, the Rockets fell short of those lofty pre-season expectations losing to Central Michigan in the MAC Tournament semifinals, thus ending a season that never quite garnered the momentum and results that many expected.</p>
<p>As the Rockets look towards the 2015-2016 season, they will be doing so without the services of many of the key contributors that helped lead the midnight blue and gold to a combined 47 victories over the last two seasons. Lost to graduation are guards Julius "Juice" Brown and <span>Justin Drummond</span> as well as power forward <span>J.D. Weatherspoon</span>.</p>
<p>The trio combined to average over 42 points per game during the 2014-2015 season, which saw Brown recognized as a First Team All-MAC performer and Drummond and Weatherspoon as Third Team All-Mac performers. Brown’s loss will be incredibly challenging to replace as the point guard started all 131 games he participated in for the Rockets and graduated as the schools third all-time leading scorer and ranks second all-time in assists.</p>
<h3>Head Coach: Tod Kowalczyk, 6th Year (85-78, 43-41 MAC)</h3>
<p>After a very successful eight-year run at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Tod Kowalczyk took over as the head men’s basketball coach at Toledo prior to the 2010-2011 season. Following a challenging 4-28 season in his first year guiding the Rockets, "Coach K" has led an incredibly swift resurrection of the men’s basketball program at Toledo.</p>
<p>The Rockets have averaged over 20 wins a season the last four seasons, including a 42-26 record in conference play. While featuring a style that has not been hesitant to push the pace offensively, the Rockets have finished no worse than second in the MAC West during the last four years with appearances in the MAC tournament semifinals the last two seasons. The 2014-2015 season saw Toledo record its second consecutive 20 win season, marking the first time the Rockets had done so since winning 20 or more five straight years from 1976-81.</p>
<h3>2015-16 Schedule</h3>
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<th>Date</th> <th>Opponent</th> <th>Time (EST)</th> <th>Notes</th>
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<td>7-Nov</td>
<td>Hillsdale</td>
<td>2:30</td>
<td>Exhibition</td>
</tr>
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<td>14-Nov</td>
<td>West Virginia Tech</td>
<td>2:30</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18-Nov</td>
<td>Youngstown State</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21-Nov</td>
<td>Loyola Illinois</td>
<td>5:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25-Nov</td>
<td>San Jose State</td>
<td>11:30</td>
<td>Great Alaska Shootout</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27-Nov</td>
<td>San Diego/Loyola Chicago</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Great Alaska Shootout</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28-Nov</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>Great Alaska Shootout</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2-Dec</td>
<td>Cleveland State</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6-Dec</td>
<td>at Green Bay</td>
<td>3:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9-Dec</td>
<td>at Detroit</td>
<td>7:30</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12-Dec</td>
<td>Oakland</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19-Dec</td>
<td>Bethune-Cookman</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21-Dec</td>
<td>North Carolina A&T</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>30-Dec</td>
<td>Northern Kentucky</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<tr>
<td>6-Jan</td>
<td>at Ball State</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>9-Jan</td>
<td>at Miami</td>
<td>3:30</td>
<td></td>
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<tr>
<td>12-Jan</td>
<td>Northern Illinois</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>16-Jan</td>
<td>Akron</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
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<td>19-Jan</td>
<td>at Bowling Green</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>23-Jan</td>
<td>at Northern Illinois</td>
<td>TBA</td>
<td></td>
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<td>26-Jan</td>
<td>Ohio</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>30-Jan</td>
<td>Buffalo</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>2-Feb</td>
<td>Western Michigan</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>6-Feb</td>
<td>at Kent State</td>
<td>TBA</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9-Feb</td>
<td>at Buffalo</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13-Feb</td>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16-Feb</td>
<td>at Central Michigan</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20-Feb</td>
<td>at Eastern Michigan</td>
<td>12:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23-Feb</td>
<td>Ball State</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
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<td>27-Feb</td>
<td>Central Michigan</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>1-Mar</td>
<td>at Western Michigan</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<td>4-Mar</td>
<td>Eastern Michigan</td>
<td>7:00</td>
<td></td>
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<h3>Two Experienced Starters Return to Lead in 2015-2016</h3>
<p>While graduation hit the Rockets hard following the 2014-2015 season, Toledo returns two talented veteran starters in junior guard <span>Jonathan Williams</span> and senior center <span>Nathan Boothe</span>. Williams (#13 in our <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-basketball/2015/10/30/9605504/jonathan-williams-toledo-rockets-mens-basketball">Top 25 MAC Basketball Players Countdown</a>) is an athletic guard capable of playing multiple positions who averaged 10 points per game last season and shot over 36 percent from three point range. As the fourth leading scorer during the 2014-15 season, Williams will be called upon to elevate his scoring and provide leadership for a talented but inexperienced backcourt.</p>
<p>Nathan Boothe returns to anchor the Rockets down low and was a 2014-2015 All-MAC Honorable Mention performer. Boothe also averaged 10 points per game and nearly six rebounds, while displaying an admirable touch from three point range when given the opportunity. Boothe has been a hallmark at the center position for the Rockets during his time in Toledo and early in the upcoming season will exceed 1,000 career points and 500 career rebounds.</p>
<h3>Can Last Seasons' Bench Players Make More of an Impact?</h3>
<p>With three positions in the starting lineup open to competition, the Rockets will need valuable contributions from individuals that saw at times limited action off the bench last season. While sophomore guard <span>Stuckey Mosley</span>, junior guard <span>Jordan Lauf</span> and junior center <span>Zach Garber</span> saw action in all 33 of Toledo’s games in 2014-2015 the trio combined to averaged just under 10 points per game.</p>
<p>Early signs point to Mosley stepping in and filling the role as the starting point guard. Last season Mosley averaged just over 10 minutes per game off the bench and reached double figures in scoring on just one occasion. However, with an increased opportunity in his second season look for Mosley to not only prove to be a capable facilitator at the point position, but also to potentially be the third leading scoring this season behind Williams and Boothe.</p>
<p>Lauf more than capably filled his role as defensive sparkplug and Mr. Hustle off the bench last season, but it is to be determined if Lauf will be able to crack the starting lineup this year. Lauf is versatile enough to guard multiple positions on defense, but will need to contribute more on the offensive end and improve his three point shooting that has been inconsistent in his first two seasons with the Rockets. While capable of starting this season, Lauf may find himself serving as the sixth man off the bench to provide a boost of energy on both ends of the court.</p>
<p>Zach Garber will once again fill in as the backup center behind Nathan Boothe, this season. The 6-10 Garber has proven more than serviceable as a rebounder in previous seasons and displayed a high motor that should lead to increased minutes and opportunities for offensive production this season.</p>
<h3>Plenty of Opportunity and Plenty of Youth!</h3>
<p>Kowalczyk and his staff have brought in six scholarship freshmen for the 2015-2016 season and several of them will be called upon early and often to make large contributions. Early indications are 6-foot-4 guard Jaelan Sanford, 6-foot-9 forward Taylor Adway, 6-foot-1 guard Nick Rogers and 6-foot-8 forward Nate Navigato all could see meaningful minutes immediately for the Rockets.</p>
<p>Sanford, the Evansville, Indiana native is a combo guard who averaged over 20 points per game as a high school senior in being named first team all-state. Sanford has been described as possessing limitless shooting range and depending on lineup formations could be looked at to start immediately. Navigato, from Geneva, Illinois, is a stretch power forward with excellent three point range as well that could also find himself in the starting lineup as the season begins. Navigato ended his high school career as Geneva’s all-time leading scorer and leader in three point field goals made.</p>
<p>Adway, out of Hazel Crest, Illinois (the same high school as former Rocket Julius Brown) should also see immediate minutes at the power forward position and provide a strong presence as a rebounder and shot blocker. Adway averaged 10 rebounds and 5 blocked shots as a high school senior to go along with 17 points per game. The Indianapolis, Indiana native Rogers looks more than capable to serve as the backup point guard and also see impactful minutes to start the season. Rodgers averaged nearly 20 points per game and 5 assists as a high school senior at Traders Point Christian Academy. Rogers attended the Elev8 Institute in Delray Beach, FL, during 2014-2015 academic year.</p>
<p>Coach Kowalczyk may also lean on additional freshmen to make an impact as Chandler White, a 6-2 guard from Fort Wayne, and 6-11 center Luke Knapke from Minster, Ohio, also are in the mix to see minutes off the bench this season. With potentially four freshmen seeing significant minutes from the start of the season, do not be surprised to see Toledo place multiple individuals on the conference all freshmen team as the season concludes.</p>
<h3>Keep an Eye on These Three Players</h3>
<p>Boothe has been a starter and a contributor for the Rockets since the day he stepped on campus. As Boothe writes the final chapter on a very fine career, I would look for him to take the next step and become a dominate all conference big man this season. Boothe is an exceptional interior passer and will be called upon to help drive the Rockets offense not just as a scorer but as a facilitator as well. Look for Boothe to raise his offensive output this season and average over 15 points per game and be a constant threat to pull down 10 plus rebounds a night.</p>
<p>For the Rockets to be successful this season, <span>Jonathan Williams</span> will also need to step up and become an all-conference type performer. Williams has shown the ability to score both as a shooter and possessing a knack for getting to the basket, but for the first time will be asked to lead and serve as the key cog on the perimeter. Like Boothe, Williams will need to find a way to consistently average around 15 points per game, but do not be surprised to the junior pour in more than 20 a night on multiple occasions.</p>
<p>Sanford also is in an excellent position to step up and fill the scoring roles lost to graduation. Rocket fans should immediately be impressed with Sanford’s shooting range and his potential to knock down multiple three point shots a night. Look for Sanford to contribute right away for the Rockets and find himself on the MAC All Freshmen Team at seasons end.</p>
<h3>What to Expect in 2015-2016</h3>
<p>The Rockets were hit hard by graduation, but so too was much of the MAC and moreover the West division as well. Toledo does have the benefit of being able to lean on two experienced players in <span>Williams</span> and Boothe that both appear poised to enter the upper echelon of conference players. However, the success of this season will largely hinge on the ability of underclassmen like Mosley and multiple incoming freshmen to make an immediate impact.</p>
<p>If Mosely and a couple of the freshmen can relieve Boothe and Williams of a portion of the scoring burden, the Rockets should be very competitive in conference play. Central Michigan will be the prohibitive favorite this season to win the MAC Tournament, much as the Rockets were last year, but do not overlook this group from Toledo that brings a nice mix of experience and youthful talent to hardwood this season.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-basketball/2015/11/4/9642550/toledo-rockets-mens-basketball-preview-scheduleJustin Kruse2015-10-15T18:45:01-04:002015-10-15T18:45:01-04:00Rockets, Eagles meet up in Glass City
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<p>The Toledo Rockets look to continue their perfect season in a series they have dominated in recent years! </p> <p>The University of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a> (5-0, 2-0 Mid-American Conference) will look to continue their unblemished season this Saturday as they welcome MAC West opponent Eastern Michigan (1-5, 0-2 MAC) to the Glass Bowl. The Rockets have climbed to No. 22 in the most recent AP poll and No. 25 in the USA Today Coaches Poll. This marks the first time UT has been ranked in both polls since the conclusion of the 2001 season.</p>
<p>For the Rockets, a program known for offensive production, it has been the defense that has stepped up the last three weeks. During that stretch, the Toledo defense has surrendered just one offensive touchdown, while giving up just over 242 yards per game. Leading the way for the Rockets has been senior defensive end <span>Trent Voss</span>, who was just named MAC West Division Defensive Player of the Week, following Toledo's 38-7 victory over Kent State.</p>
<p>Offensively, look for Toledo to continue to lean on the conference's best rushing attack against a porous Eagles defense that has yielded over 40 points per game this season and over 44 points per game during a four game losing streak. The Rocket running back trio of <span>Terry Swanson</span>, <span>Damion Jones-Moore</span> and <span>Kareem Hunt</span> have combined to run for over 800 yards and average over 5.6 yards per carry. The Rocket offensive line has not only been leading the way on the ground, but in pass protection as well, as quarterback <span>Phillip Ely</span> has not been sacked once this season in 172 pass attempts.</p>
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<p>Head coach Chris Creighton's Eagles will enter the Glass Bowl following a demoralizing 47-21 home loss to Akron last week, which followed a very positive showing in a 44-22 defeat at LSU on Oct. 3. On offense the Eagles will look to running back <span>Darius Jackson</span> who is second in the conference with 585 rushing yards while adding eight touchdowns. It is unclear based on Creighton's comments early in the week who will line up behind center for EMU, <span>Brogan Roback</span> or Reginald Bell. Bell suffered a broken jaw in the opening game and Roback has filled in completing 63.8 percent of his passes for 1,242 yards with nine TDs and eight interceptions.</p>
<p>The Rockets have feasted on the Eagles in recent years, winning eight straight in the series by an average of 28.4 points and holding a 14-1 record against EMU since 1999. Matt Campbell's Rockets will take the field for the noon kickoff as close to a 30 point favorite over the Eagles.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-football/2015/10/15/9530207/eastern-michigan-eagles-toledo-rockets-football-previewJustin Kruse2015-09-24T13:24:02-04:002015-09-24T13:24:02-04:00A GoDaddy Bowl rematch
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<p>Arkansas State travels to Toledo to take on the unbeaten Rockets in a rematch of the 2015 GoDaddy Bowl</p> <p>In what can be described as a unique scheduling occurrence, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/arkansas-st-red-wolves">Arkansas State Red Wolves</a> and The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a> will faceoff Saturday night, in a rematch of the GoDaddy Bowl played in January 2015. For the host Rockets, who enter the game at 2-0, they will look for a repeat performance from the January game which saw Toledo run to a convincing 63-44 victory in Mobile, Alabama.</p>
<p>The Red Wolves will enter the Glass Bowl, with a 1-2 record, but their two most recent performances have been very sound. A hard fought 27-20 home loss to nationally ranked Missouri, followed by a dominating 70-7 beat down of FCS opponent Missouri State. Senior starting quarterback <span>Fredi Knighten</span>, missed the Missouri State game with a groin injury, but Red Wolves coach Blake Anderson has indicated Knighten is likely to suit up against the Rockets.</p>
<p>Knighten was tremendous in 2014 for Arkansas State, throwing for 24 touchdowns and over 3200 yards against just 7 interceptions. Against the Rockets in the bowl game, Knighten threw for over 400 yards and 5 touchdowns in defeat and will be needed to perform at a high level in the rematch against a Rockets' defense that has been solid through two games. If Knighten is limited or unable to go Saturday night, freshman <span>James Tabary</span> will once again be called on to start, Tabary has already thrown for over 370 yards in 2015 including 255 yards last week against Missouri State with 3 touchdowns.</p>
<p>The Rockets defense has shown tremendous improvement early in 2015 and they will be called on again against the Red Wolves' hurry-up attack. Jon Heacock's unit has given up just 12 and 23 points respectively against FBS Power 5 opponents Arkansas and Iowa State. <span>Allen Covington</span> returned to lineup against Iowa State after serving a 2 game suspension and immediately made his presence known tying a school record with 5 tackles for loss. Linebacker Jaylen Coleman has been tremendous for Toledo and leads the nation in tackles per game with 14.5, after accounting for 13 at Arkansas and 16 vs. Iowa State. On the injury front, head coach <span>Matt Campbell</span> noted defensive end <span>Trent Voss</span> suffered a hip pointer against Iowa State, but would not commit to Voss' availability against Arkansas State</p>
<p>For the Rockets, it was <span>Kareem Hunt</span> who dominated the game and ran Toledo to victory when these two teams met in January. Hunt rushed for a GaDaddy Bowl record 271 and five touchdowns in being named game MVP. Hunt saw his first action of the 2015 season last week against Iowa State, following a team issued two game suspension, the junior ran for 129 yards against the Cyclones and was named MAC West division offensive player of the week. Hunt's status for Saturday however remains unclear, according to head coach Matt Campbell, as the running back limped off the field during the Rockets final series of the game with a hamstring injury. If Hunt is unable to go or is not at full strength, Toledo will look once again to <span>Damion Jones-Moore</span>, who filled in during Hunt's suspension and scored a touchdown in each of the last two weeks.</p>
<p>Toledo starting quarterback <span>Phillip Ely</span> has put up modest numbers through two games, totaling just 375 yards and two touchdowns, but the box score does not truly reflect Ely's results to date. Critical drops have plagued the Rockets early in 2015 and the receiving corps has been unable on multiple occasions to help out their quarterback when big plays were available. Sophomore wide receiver <span>Cody Thompson</span> dropped what would have been the game winning touchdown on what was a perfectly thrown Ely toss in the first overtime against Iowa State. Ely and his group of talented pass catchers will need to step up against the Red Wolves on Saturday, especially if Kareem Hunt is not able to go at 100%.</p>
<p>The Rockets will be looking to impress national pollsters again this week as the Associated Press media poll gave Toledo 30 points, just five spots outside the Top 25 for an unofficial ranking of No. 30.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-football/2015/9/24/9373767/arkansas-state-red-wolves-toledo-rockets-football-previewJustin Kruse2015-09-18T16:00:02-04:002015-09-18T16:00:02-04:00How will the Rockets fare in the rematch?
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<figcaption>Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Toledo Rockets return home to take on the Iowa State Cyclones and Kevin Fitzpatrick swung by to give an inside perspective on the Cyclones. </p> <p>With the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a> returning home following a tremendous upset of nationally ranked Arkansas, we sat down for a chat with our friends at Wide Right & Natty Lite to help breakdown the upcoming game with Big 12 foe Iowa State.</p>
<p>A big thanks goes out to <span>Kevin Fitzpatrick</span> from Wide Right & Natty Lite for participating, Kevin can be found on twitter @KFitzy87 and his contributions can be read at www.widerightnattylite.com.</p>
<p><b>Hustle Belt: Following a loss to instate rival Iowa in the battle for the Cy-Hawk trophy, how do you feel the Cyclones will respond to a road game against a MAC foe in the Toledo Rockets? </b></p>
<p>Wide Right Natty Lite: So far, the mindset of the players seems to have changed for the better this year. The past couple seasons, a loss like that would have definitely affected their play during the following week. There were reports before this season began that last year's team basically quit trying at a certain point. The chemistry was bad and morale was low... Not a good combo.</p>
<p>Fortunately, this year's squad seems to have much better leadership. I get the sense that they'll be ready to get out there and fight for another tally in the win column. With a daunting Big 12 schedule coming down the pipe, the players know it won't get any easier (well, except maybe against Kansas...), so if they're to have any chance at a bowl, a win against Toledo is virtually required.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Through two games ISU QB Sam B. Richardson has been very solid and developed a nice rapport with sophomore wide receiver <span>Allen Lazard</span>, but the Cyclones have really struggled to develop a consistent rushing attack, what needs to change for offense to develop a more balanced attack?</b></p>
<p>It all starts up front with the offensive line. I'm a big believer that if the O-line is good enough, there should be holes for whoever totes the rock to run through. Our running backs are inexperienced, but they haven't been the problem.</p>
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<span class="blog-links-star"><img src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/assets/3608771/star.png"></span> More Cyclones <span class="blog-links-star"><img src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/assets/3608771/star.png"></span>
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<div class="blog-links-compact-link-container"><a href="http://www.widerightnattylite.com?utm_source=sbnation&utm_medium=bloglinks&utm_campaign=blogs">Iowa St. Cyclones blog Wide Right & Natty Lite</a></div>
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<p>The past few years of fielding a terrible rushing attack is likely what's contributed most to ISU's struggles on the offensive side of the ball. We have the pieces at quarterback and receiver to do damage in the passing game, but they're easily nullified if defenses can stop the run with only a few guys in the box. A lot of our fan base loves to dog on Richardson because he appears to be indecisive in the pocket, but my suspicion is it's because there's a ton of defenders helping out in coverage and he honestly doesn't have many spots to throw the ball.</p>
<p>Coach Rhoads and offensive coordinator Mark Mangino are going to have to figure out if the run blocking issues are a scheme problem or personnel problem, and they're gonna have to do it fast.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Head Coach Paul Rhoads is now in his seventh season and the struggles the last two years are well documented, just how hot is the proverbial "hot seat" for Rhoads and is a bowl game appearance a must in 2015 or will he be shown the door in Ames? </b></p>
<p>Right now, his seat is frying pan warm. If he loses to Toledo or Kansas, it'll be lava warm. I don't think a bowl is necessary for him to keep his job (to the dismay to many of our fans), but this year's team has to prove they at least belong in the Big 12. Last year we were the ugly duckling, and if that happens to be the case again this year when we hit conference play, I think he'll be shown the door at the end of the season.</p>
<p>No matter what, I don't expect him to get fired mid-season.</p>
<p>The good news is, with our two game sample size, the defense has looked like they actually have a pulse this season. The off-season saw a number of JUCO players join the team, and almost all of them have made a positive impact for defensive coordinator Wally Burnham's unit. An improved defense would do wonders for ISU's ability to compete in the Big 12.</p>
<p><b>While Toledo did pull a massive upset in Little Rock against Arkansas last Saturday, do the Rockets have the respect as a program from Iowa State fans and how do the Cyclone faithful feel about playing a road game against an MAC opponent?</b></p>
<p>Toledo certainly has our respect. ISU hasn't experienced enough success recently to overlook or disrespect anyone on their schedule. In fact, many of our fans were picking the game against the Rockets as our one non-conference loss this year. Obviously that theory was debunked with the loss to Iowa, but the point still stands that we know Toledo is going to be a tough MAC opponent.</p>
<p>As far as going on the road, I'd say it's kind of a neutral feeling. We got both of our in-state rivals (Northern Iowa, Iowa) at home before the Rockets, so this road trip will be a nice early season test of overcoming adversity for the Cyclones.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>For Iowa State to reach a bowl game in 2015, does this game become a "must win" situation prior to entering a challenging 9 game Big 12 conference schedule?</b></p>
<p>Yes, I think it is. Looking at the rest of ISU's schedule, it's basically impossible to point out five more wins if we drop the game against Toledo. Even if we win, four more wins is a pretty tall task.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Finally, would you care to offer a couple keys to the game for ISU and a prediction heading into the Saturday night contest?</b></p>
<p>In my opinion, the key to the game will come down to which defense performs better. If Iowa State can stop Toledo from running all over them, I think the Cyclones will be the victors. On the other hand, I think if Toledo can limit ISU's passing game, then the Rockets will come out on top.</p>
<p>I'll stick with the prediction I made for this game before the season:</p>
<p>ISU 21, Toledo 17 in ugly fashion.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-football/2015/9/18/9330925/wide-right-natty-lite-iowa-state-cyclones-toledo-rockets-football-previewJustin Kruse2015-09-10T20:32:02-04:002015-09-10T20:32:02-04:00Toledo plays their first game of the season again
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<figcaption>Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The University of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets" class="sbn-auto-link">Toledo Rockets</a> will hit the road this Saturday against the nationally ranked <a href="https://www.arkansasfight.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Arkansas Razorbacks</a>, in what effectively will serve as the Rockets' second season opener. Toledo led FCS opponent Stony Brook, 16-7 at halftime a week ago, when the game was officially called due to dangerous weather conditions. All statistics from the Stony Brook game were wiped clean and the game was declared a "no contest."</p>
<p>The highly touted Razorbacks will look to continue momentum heading into conference play following a convincing 48-13 victory over the UTEP Miners in their home opener in Fayetteville. The game against the Rockets will however be played at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock as Arkansas continues their commitment moving forward to play one game a season in the state capital.</p>
<p>Toledo will once again be shorthanded this Saturday as all-conference running back <span>Kareem Hunt</span> and starting defensive end <span>Allen Covington</span> serve the final game of a two game suspension for violation of team rules. With Hunt on the bench, significant pressure will fall on the shoulders of starting quarterback <span>Phillip Ely</span> and reserve running back Damion Jones-More, who replaced opening day starter <span>Terry Swanson</span> after Swanson left the opener with an apparent ankle injury. Unofficially Moore gained 70 yards on just 5 carries against Stony Brook. The shorthanded Rockets will be facing an Arkansas defense that finished 10<sup>th</sup> in the country last season in total defense and held UTEP to just 204 yards last week.</p>
<p>While the challenge facing the Toledo offense is significant, the task of stopping the Arkansas offense will be just as formidable for a Rocket defense that has historically struggled against top line opponents. Senior quarterback <span>Brandon Allen</span> leads the Razorbacks, after showing remarkable efficiency in their opener completing 14-18 throws for 308 yards and 4 touchdowns. There will be some familiarity for the Toledo players and staff when Arkansas has the ball as former Central Michigan Head Coach Dan Enos is now calling the plays for the Razorbacks. Enos was 0-5 against the Rockets as the head coach of the Chippewas and 0-3 against <span>Matt Campbell</span>.</p>
<p>Under third year head coach Bret Bielema the Razorbacks have built a reputation for possessing a hardnosed physical running attack. A foot injury to starting running back <span>Jonathan Williams</span>, who rushed for almost 1200 yards in 2014, will likely sideline him for the entire 2015 season has opened the door for junior <span>Alex Collins</span> to take over the bulk of the carries. Collins himself rushed for 1100 yards in 2014 and scampered for 127 in the opener against UTEP on just 12 carries.</p>
<p>This will be the third straight season Toledo will take on an opponent for the SEC following defeats on the road at Florida and at home to Missouri in 2013 and 2014. The "experts" have placed Arkansas as a 21 point favorite over the visiting Rockets, who will have their hands full stopping the potent Arkansas offense and moving the ball against the formidable Razorback defense.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/2015/9/10/9300757/toledo-rockets-arkansas-razorbacks-football-previewJustin Kruse2015-08-02T10:00:02-04:002015-08-02T10:00:02-04:00#32- Phillip Ely (QB- Toledo)
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<figcaption>Raj Mehta (USA TODAY Sports)</figcaption>
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<p>Phillip Ely completed just 41 passes in 2014, but big things are still expected from the Toledo quarterback in 2015 </p> <p>When you project player performance for an upcoming season, a good place to begin is to take a look at what that player accomplished during the past season. Was that player an all-conference performer; a statistical team or conference leader; perhaps an underclassman that jumped on the scene late in the season and big things are expected moving forward? Well, to be frank, <span>Phillip Ely's</span> 2014 season for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a> offers none of those surefire signs that greatness is looming in 2015, so how does a guy that completed just 41 passes last season land at No. 32 on our list this preseason?</p>
<p>First and foremost, Ely came out of the 2014 summer camp as the Rocket's starting quarterback, out-dueling both <span>Logan Woodside</span> and <span>Michael Julian</span> in a contested QB competition. Ely would open the season against FCS power New Hampshire throwing for over 300 yards and 4 touchdowns in in a convincing 54-20 win. However, an ACL injury in just the second game of the season against Missouri derailed what was a promising start for the Tampa, Florida native and transfer from the University of Alabama. Ely would miss the Rockets' last 12 games of the season as well as all of spring practice while rehabbing for the 2015 season.</p>
<p>When trying to project Ely's numbers for 2015, look no further than what backup Logan Woodside accomplished in 2014. With Ely on the sidelines, Woodside admirably filled the starting role, going 8-2 as a starter, while throwing for over 2,200 yards and 19 touchdowns against just 8 interceptions. Woodside concluded the season by leading the midnight blue and gold to victory in the GoDaddy Bowl 63-44 over Arkansas State.</p>
<p>If Ely is named the starter for 2015, he will also benefit from a strong contingent of offensive weapons surrounding the quarterback. All-conference performers including running back <span>Kareem Hunt</span> and wide receivers <span>Alonzo Russell</span> and <span>Corey Jones</span> all return for what should be a potent Rocket offensive attack.</p>
<p>For Ely to fulfill the lofty expectations many Rocket fans and the contributors here at Hustle Belt feel he is capable of, he will first have to once again outlast Woodside as he did in 2014 to be named the opening day starter. Ely will also have to show head coach Matt Campbell that he is fully healed and ready to expand upon what is a very small, yet effective sample size.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-football/2015/8/2/9072883/2015-top-mac-football-players-32-phillip-ely-toledoJustin Kruse2015-07-20T10:00:02-04:002015-07-20T10:00:02-04:00#45-Corey Jones (WR-Toledo)
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<figcaption>Steven Branscombe (USA TODAY Sports)</figcaption>
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<p>In 2015 Toledo wide receiver Corey Jones looks poised to become one of the MAC's elite pass catchers following an exceptional opening season as a starter. </p> <p>As a young wide receiver entering your first season as a starter, all you can really hope for is an opportunity to make plays and stability and reliability in the form of man throwing you the football. <span>Corey Jones</span>, the junior to be at the University of Toledo made plenty of plays in his first season as a starter in 2014, despite the quarterback position proving to be anything but stable. The 2014 season would see the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets" class="sbn-auto-link">Rockets</a> forced suit up four different starting quarterbacks, after injuries to opening day starter <span>Phillip Ely</span> and backup <span>Logan Woodside</span>.</p>
<p>Despite the obstacles faced at the QB position, Jones, the Pittsburgh, PA native out of Penn Hills High School excelled for the midnight blue and gold in 2014. The then sophomore would haul in a team leading 68 receptions for 842 yards and was selected as an All-MAC Second-Team Team performer.</p>
<p>Jones' blend of shiftiness and speed helped to account for five touchdowns last season, including four scoring strikes of over 40 yards. Four times during the 2014 season Jones went over 100 yards receiving in a game, including 12 catches/118 yards at Iowa State.</p>
<p>In 2015 look for Jones to continue his development as a true play maker for the Rockets not just as a wide receiver, but also through touches in the rushing attack as well as the primary punt returner. This diverse skill-set led Jones to be named to the <a href="http://www.utrockets.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18000&ATCLID=210185716">2015 Paul Hornung Award Watch List</a>, an award given annually to major college football's most versatile player.</p>
<p>Jones, along with senior wide receiver <span>Alonzo Russell</span> should combine to form one of the most dangerous receiving duos in the conference. Russell, has pulled in over 160 passes for 19 touchdowns during his first three seasons as a Rocket and both players will provided plenty of big play potential for whomever is lined up behind center.</p>
<p><span>Jones</span> demonstrated a knack to make big plays throughout the 2014 season that should continue into the 2015 campaign. With increased stability at the quarterback position, look for Corey Jones to be once again be a focal point for the University of Toledo on the offensive side of the ball.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-football/2015/7/20/8969877/2015-top-mac-football-players-45-corey-jones-toledoJustin Kruse2015-02-18T22:57:27-05:002015-02-18T22:57:27-05:00Juice with another game-winning shot
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<figcaption>Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Julius Brown has shown the ability in the past to be tremendously clutch for the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets" class="sbn-auto-link">Toledo Rockets</a>, but a fade away game winning jumper to take down the host <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/akron-zips" class="sbn-auto-link">Akron Zips</a> may go down as one of the senior's most brilliant plays. With the game tied at 66, Brown took the inbounds past, dribbled to his left and drilled the high arching jump shot over the outstretched defender with just 1.7 seconds remaining. The Zips would get off a desperation three point attempt from Kwan Cheatham Jr., but that attempt was off target and the Rockets picked up a key road victory 68-66.</p>
<p>With the win the Rockets moved to 9-4 in conference play, which includes a 5-1 record away from home, while the Zips fell to 8-5. With Bowling Green losing at home to Miami, Toledo is once again in a first place tie atop the MAC.</p>
<p>Brown, the Rockets leading scorer, led the visitors with 21 points and Nathan Boothe and J.D. Weatherspoon contributed 16 and 11 respectively. The contributions from both Weatherspoon and Boothe were much needed as Justin Drummond and <span>Jonathan Williams</span> were each held to just 4 points on a combined 2-13 shooting.</p>
<p>Toledo would take a 38-36 lead heading into the halftime break, despite shooting just 1-8 from three point range in the first twenty minutes. The Zips closed the first half on a much needed 15-8 run, after trailing by as many as nine early on.</p>
<p>The second half was closely contested throughout, with both teams exchanging the lead during the course of the final twelve minutes. A Reggie McAdams three pointer with just over three minutes to play would tie the game at 66, but prove to be the Zips final points of the game.</p>
<p>Making his first career start, Zips' guard Antino Jackson would contribute a career high 14 points, but added only 2 points in the second half. Center Pat Forsythe was held to just 8 points for Zips on just 9 shot attempts, while Deji Ibatayo would add 11 off the Zips' bench.</p>
<p>Toledo will look to continue their winning ways away from home as they head to Western Michigan on Saturday, while Akron will host Miami.</p>
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<span class="must-reads-star"><img src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/assets/3608771/star.png"></span>Game Leaders<span class="must-reads-star"><img src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/assets/3608771/star.png"></span>
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<th align="left">Player</th> <th align="center">Akron</th> <th align="center">Toledo</th>
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<td align="left"><b>Points</b></td>
<td align="center">Antino Jackson (14)</td>
<td align="center">Julius Brown (21)</td>
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<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'" bgcolor="#FFFFFF">
<td align="left"><b>Rebounds</b></td>
<td align="center">Isaiah Johnson (6)</td>
<td align="center">J.D. Weatherspoon (7)</td>
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<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'" bgcolor="#FFFFFF">
<td align="left"><b>Assists</b></td>
<td align="center">Antino Jackson (3)</td>
<td align="center">3 tied (2)</td>
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<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'" bgcolor="#FFFFFF">
<td align="left"><b>Blocks</b></td>
<td align="center">B.J. Gladden (2)</td>
<td align="center">none</td>
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<tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="left"><b>Steals</b></td>
<td align="center">2 tied (2)</td>
<td align="center">Justin Drummond (2)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-basketball/2015/2/18/8066633/toledo-rockets-take-down-the-akron-zips-68-66-on-brown-game-winnerJustin Kruse2015-02-12T16:34:02-05:002015-02-12T16:34:02-05:00Can Kent State prove themselves against Toledo?
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<figcaption>Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The surging <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a> (16-8, 8-3) will look to avenge an early season defeat as they host the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/teams/kent-st-golden-flashes">Kent State Golden Flashes</a> (16-8, 7-4) at Savage Arena on Friday evening. The Rockets are riding high, winners of six straight conference games and appear to be regaining the form that made them the unanimous preseason conference favorite. Meanwhile the Golden Flashes look to recapture some of the form displayed early in conference play that saw Coach Rob Senderoff's team jump out to a surprising 6-1 start.</p>
<p>While Kent has lost three of four, the losses included difficult road contests at Buffalo, Western Michigan and earlier this week at arch rival Akron. Compounding the challenging schedule has been the absence of leading scorer and rebounder, sophomore forward <span>Jimmy Hall</span>, who has missed the last three games with mononucleosis.</p>
<p>Hall was averaging 15.1 points per game and 7.5 rebounds per game on the season and just less than 17 points per game in conference play. There still appears to be no set timetable for Hall's return and the flashes will have to lean heavily on senior guard <span>Devareaux Manley</span>, who is averaging 12.8 points per game to pick up the scoring slack. Manley dropped 21 against the Rockets in their first meeting on January 21, leading the Flashes along with guard <span>Kris Brewer</span> who added 18.</p>
<p>For the Rockets, who stumbled out of the gate in conference play with a 2-3 record; a hard fought 92-88 road victory at Buffalo, has the midnight blue and gold back on top of the MAC West Standings. The Rockets have been remarkably balanced during their six game winning streak, as shown on Tuesday against the Bulls when all five starters reached double figures and the visitors made an incredible 12-14 three point field goals.</p>
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<p>Despite an overall balanced attack, senior guards <span>Julius Brown</span> and <span>Justin Drummond</span> have really excelled of late averaging 20.2 and 15.8 points per game respectively over the last six contests to lead the Rockets. Look for Brown and Drummond to seek some personal redemption against the Flashes, as the dynamic guard duo was held to just nine and eleven points in the team's first meeting at Kent.</p>
<p>Helping to fuel the Rockets run of success had been Coach Kowalczyk's team's remarkably consistent performance from the charity stripe during their recent winning streak. Already second in the conference as a team in Free Throw percentage at just over 73%, the Rockets have been tremendously clutch at the line over the last six converting close to 80% of their attempts.</p>
<p>As we head towards the last few weeks of MAC play, this game will be tremendously pivotal for both teams looking to secure byes heading towards the MAC Tournament in Cleveland. The home contest will be key in maintaining momentum for Toledo as they are in the midst of a 4 out of 5 stretch of road games including challenging trips to both Akron and Western Michigan next week. Meanwhile for the Flashes, a road win at Savage Arena would be a huge boost in the standings as they try to remain with in arms reach of East leaders Akron and Bowling Green.</p>
<p>Tipoff on Friday is at 6:00 p.m. and can be seen on ESPNU or streamed online at UTRockets.com.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/mac-basketball/2015/2/12/8026291/kent-state-golden-flashes-vs-toledo-rockets-mens-basketball-previewJustin Kruse