Rockets Open Fall Camp Under First-Year Head Coach Mike Jacobs

TOLEDO, Ohio – At 8:24 a.m. Wednesday, Mike Jacobs stepped onto the turf at the Glass Bowl to lead his first preseason practice as the University of Toledo's head football coach.

Under sun-splashed skies on a crisp 61-degree morning, the Rockets opened fall camp and marked the beginning of a new chapter for Toledo football under its 28th head coach.

Jacobs, who was hired in December after leading FCS Mercer to back-to-back Southern Conference championships, inherited a veteran roster and added the Mid-American Conference's No. 1-ranked transfer portal class. Wednesday's practice was the first opportunity for the staff and players to begin establishing the standard for the season ahead.

"The intensity of our work today was really good," said Jacobs. "There weren't a ton of mental errors today, which is good. I thought our effort was good. I thought our transitions, the pace, the foundation for a strong training camp is there. It's good to see guys flying around a little bit."

The opening workout featured an energetic pace as veterans and newcomers worked through the first installation of training camp. Players moved between position drills, individual instruction and team periods with the focus on setting the tone that Jacobs and his staff expect throughout camp.

"It's awesome. It's good to get out here with the guys and get rolling," said junior quarterback John Alan Richter. "It's exciting where we are and what our future is. It was great. It's good to be out here playing some real football."

Toledo opens the season at Michigan State on Friday, Sept. 4 at 8:00 p.m. on FS1. The Rockets' home opener – "The Biggest Party in Toledo" – against Central Connecticut State is set for Saturday, Sept. 12 at 3:30 p.m. on ESPN+. This is the first time since 2018 that Toledo has seven home games and only the third time in program history.

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 are also on sale.

Players Mentioned

John Alan Richter