The Rockets needed a change from “Toledo Tom” (former coach Anstutz) and in 2009 Tim Beckman brought new enthusiasm, accountability and discipline. Unfortunately that led to a 5-7 record, their fourth losing season in a row.

Eric Page led the nation's freshman in 2010 receiving yardage.
Despite a very effective offense and freshmen star Eric Page, the defense was lousy 116th nationally in scoring (37.7 points per game) and the team turned the ball over far too much. While four-year starter QB Aaron Opelt has graduated, the offense could be stronger behind a solid O-line and talented RBs.
For any chance at a winning season, the defense needs to be vastly improved after giving up 30-points or more in ten of twelve games.
The Team
The offense returns five starters and several proven backups. While Toledo likes to pass the ball, look for Morgan Williams to lead an active running game backed up by Adonis Thomas, Jake Walker and Darius Reeves. QBs Austin Danton, Alex Pettee and David Pasquale make plays but neither has proven himself to be the undisputed starter. Page is a special player at WR and led the nation’s freshmen last season with 82 catches for 1,159 yards, but star WR Stephen Williams graduation means Kenny Stafford or new freshman James Green need to hit the ground running.
The defensive line has more size than years past but is still unproven; guys like DE Alex Johnson and DE Douglas Westbrook will need to step up this year. True freshman Jayrone Elliott could contribute immediately as a pass rush specialist. Archie Donald is a solid MLB and Dan Molls is quickly becoming a stable too at LB. The safeties can make plays while the CBs will need much improvement. Outside of return specialist Eric Page, the special teams are not too special.
The Verdict Read the rest of this entry →
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