TOLEDO, Ohio - The University of Toledo football team opened its preseason training camp on Friday with just four weeks until the opening of the 2021 season.

The Rockets, who had a pair of split-squad practices Friday morning, have a veteran team with high expectations for the season.

"We had really spirited competition out there today," said Jason Candle, now in his sixth season as head coach. "There will always be some mistakes, some things we'll have to go back and fix. The teaching model of preview, view and review stays in place here. It's not just about making mistakes, it's about trying to get those fixed. We have a lot of competition at a lot of different positions, more guys than we've ever had in camp. We're excited about our football team and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead."

The Rockets will host split-squad practices through Monday, with full-team practices beginning on Wednesday.Toledo opens the 2021 season at the Glass Bowl vs. Norfolk State on Sept. 4, then heads to Notre Dame on Sept. 11 before returning to the Glass City on Sept. 18 to host Colorado State.

Toledo, 4-2 in the abbreviated 2020 season, was picked to finish in second place in the MAC West Division behind defending league champion Ball State. Among the Rockets' 57 returning letterwinners are nine players who have made All-MAC at some point in their career. Six returners made All-MAC in 2020: senior center Bryce Harris (first team); senior safety Tycen Anderson, sophomore safety Nate Bauer, junior defensive end/outside linebacker Jamal Hines and junior defensive tackle Desjuan Johnson (second team); and junior wide receiver Isaiah Winstead (third team). Three other players made All-MAC in 2019­—junior running back Bryant Koback and senior wide receiver Bryce Mitchell (second team), and sophomore offensive lineman Nick Rosi (third team). 

To purchase season tickets or single-game tickets for the 2021 season, order online, stop by the UT Athletic Ticket Office, located in the Sullivan Athletic Complex at Savage Arena, or call 419-530-GOLD (4653).


Head Coach Jason Candle speaks to media after first day of preseason training camp.