Toledo, Ohio - The University of Toledo football team began its quest for a 2019 Mid-American Conference Championship today when it opened the spring practice season with a morning workout in the Fetterman Training Center. 

Head Coach Jason Candle was pleased with what he saw on Day One.

"It's great to get back out on the field," said Candle, who is entering his fourth season at the helm for UT. "We had a lot of energy out there today. We're just trying to gel and maybe get a preview of what we could be some day. There are 12 opportunities in a football season, more if you're good, in which you ultimately get evaluated on. But there are a lot of other days when you're not playing a game. If we can be really good on those days, then I think we'll have a shot to be pretty good this year."

The Rockets were 7-6 last season, and earned a trip to the Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl. Candle said that while his team is not focused on looking backward, they are motivated to improve upon that record.

"Last season is over. The past is the past," said Candle, who is 28-13 as Toledo's head coach. "But we're foolish if we can't learn from it. A year ago we were coming off an 11-3 season and we were trying to learn from those three losses. It's no different this year. I don't want guys going out thinking we have to win every game because that's a results-oriented way of looking at it. That's not who we are. We're process-driven; the day-to-day has to look good for us to achieve our goals."

A total of 14 returning starters are among the 50 letterwinners returning from last season's 7-6 squad, seven on offense, five on defense and two special teams players. Candle said battles for playing time are open at all positions. "We roll out the ball and the best man wins the job. That's true at every position."

The Rockets will have a total 15 practices this spring, culminating with the annual spring scrimmage on Friday, April 12 at the Glass Bowl at 7:00 p.m. 

Toledo opens its 2019 season at Kentucky on Aug. 31. The home opener is Sept. 14 vs. Murray State.

Season tickets are on sale now. Go online or call 419-530-GOLD (4653) for more information.


Head Coach Jason Candle first practice interview.