Toledo Football Announces Game Themes for 2026 Season

TOLEDO, Ohio – The University of Toledo Athletic Department is excited to unveil its promotional themes for the 2026 home football season at the Glass Bowl, featuring fan-favorite traditions, special recognitions, giveaways and celebrations throughout the year.

Rocket fans can look forward to themed experiences for every home game, beginning with the Biggest Party in Toledo and concluding with the annual Battle of I-75 rivalry matchup against Bowling Green.

Saturday, Sept. 12 vs. Central Connecticut State, 3:30 p.m.
Biggest Party in Toledo
Greek Day
First Responder Appreciation Day

The Rockets open the home slate with the Biggest Party in Toledo, welcoming students, alumni and fans back to the Glass Bowl. The game will also celebrate members of the Greek student life community and honor first responders in recognition of the 25th anniversary of 9/11.

Saturday, Sept. 19 vs. Temple, 3:00 p.m.
Band Day
Dance Clinic Pre-Game Performance

Bands from across the area will join the Rocket Marching Band for Band Day festivities. Young dancers participating in the Toledo Football Dance Clinic will perform prior to kickoff.

Saturday, Sept. 26 vs. San Diego State, Time TBA
UToledo Family Weekend
Youth Sports Day

Family Weekend returns to the Glass Bowl as Rocket families and supporters gather on campus. The game will also feature Youth Sports Day, recognizing young athletes from throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

Saturday, Oct. 10 vs. Buffalo, Time TBA
Homecoming
T-Shirt Giveaway

One of Toledo's most anticipated weekends of the year returns with Homecoming festivities, as the day will begin with the annual Homecoming parade. Fans attending the game will receive a special Toledo Football T-shirt giveaway while supplies last.

Saturday, Oct. 24 vs. Western Michigan, Time TBA
Senior Day
Rocky's 60th Birthday Celebration
Oktoberfest at the Glass Bowl

The Rockets will honor their senior class before kickoff and celebrate the 60th birthday of beloved mascot Rocky. Fans can also enjoy a pre-game Oktoberfest celebration outside the Glass Bowl featuring food, beverages and entertainment.

Wednesday, Nov. 11 vs. UMass, 7:00/7:30 p.m.
Salute to Service

Toledo Football will recognize and honor members of the United States Armed Forces during its annual Salute to Service game. The evening will feature military-focused activations and tributes throughout the pre-game and in-game experience.

Friday, Nov. 20 vs. Bowling Green, 7:30 p.m.
Battle of I-75
Special Edition Challenge Coin Add-On

The regular-season home finale brings the intensity of the Battle of I-75 rivalry to the Glass Bowl. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase a special-edition rivalry challenge coin as part of the game-day experience.

Ticket Information
Additional details regarding ticket packages, promotions, giveaways and game-day activities will be announced throughout the season.

Toledo enters its first season under Mike Jacobs with four returning offensive linemen who have starting experience. Junior quarterback John Alan Richter has thrown for 699 yards and seven touchdowns over the past two seasons.

The Rockets also added one of the MAC's top transfer portal classes, highlighted by 11 all-conference selections from previous schools, including 2025 FCS Defensive Player of the Year Andrew Zock.

Season tickets for the 2026 season are available online, by calling or texting 419-530-GOLD (4653), or by visiting the Rocket Ticket Office at the Sullivan Athletic Complex. Three-game mini-plans go on sale in June 8.

Players Mentioned

John Alan Richter

Andrew Zock