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2009 Toledo College Football Predictions

Written by Jimmy Boyd

toledo-61209The Toledo Rockets were the cream of the crop in the MAC in the first half of this decade, winning two conference championships and four MAC West Division titles from 2001-05. Those days seem pretty far removed following a 3-9 2008, but in comes new head coach Tim Beckman preaching change. Find out where I have the Toledo Rockets finishing in the MAC West in this college football betting preview. MAC fans should bet the MAC at BetUS to receive up 145 percent in sign up bonuses!

Offense – While new head coach Tim Beckman is known for his defensive mind, he plans on putting his fingerprints on the offense as well. He’s all set to install his version of the spread offense with an emphasis on tempo and speed. Beckman will have the luxury of having a three-year starter under center in year one to help make the transition to the modified offense a smoother one.  I’m, of course, referring to QB Aaron Opelt, who threw for 2,176 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2008. And the numbers don’t even come close to showing how valuable this kid is in terms of his leadership qualities and football IQ.

The passing game benefits from Toledo’s strong running attack led by the dynamic duo of DaJuane Collins and Morgan Williams. Collins rushed for 700 yards before going down with an injury and Williams led the Rockets with 1,010 yards as a true freshman. Williams was remarkable in a November win over Miami Ohio when he rushed for a school record 330 yards.

There must be something with the Williams name in Toledo as Stephen Williams is a two-time All-MAC wide receiver. He finished the 2008 season with 71 receptions for 781 yards and 8 scores.

The offensive line is in pretty good shape with senior Jared DeWalt and junior Nate Cole at the guards, and sophomores Mike VanDerMeulen and John Morookian at the tackles. Junior Kevin Kowalski and senior Buster Garrett both have what it takes to play the center spot. This experienced group should make sure the running game stays formidable.

Defense – This side of the football has struggled, ranking 97th in the nation in points allowed in 2008 (31.4). That’s why Toledo has turned to a defensive minded coach to get the ship sailing in the right direction. The defensive line has been a major weak spot for the Rockets. The line allowed teams to run all over them to the tune of 178.3 yards per game (96th in the nation) and it only managed 10 sacks all season (last in the MAC). Beckman is putting an emphasis on rushing the passer, but I’m not sure he has the horses to get in done on the outside. At least seniors Skylaar Constant and Maurice Hill are back at the tackles to provide some experience and leadership.

Senior linebacker Archie Donald, who led the team in tackles with 119 last season, is the heart and soul of this unit. Beckman expects Donald to be the coach of the defense on the field. The most highly touted Toledo defender is safety Barry Church, who is a three-time All-MAC performer and a candidate for the Nagurski Award.

Prediction: 4th MAC West – I expect continued improvement from the Rockets this season under their new head man, but a defense which ranked 97th in the country in points allowed in 2008 will continue to hold them back. Our readers receive a 20 percent cash sign up bonus at Boomaker!

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Written by Jimmy Boyd on June 12, 2009 · Filed Under College Football Betting Articles, News & Previews 

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