2002 Statistics

written by Dave Hershorin

What do you do to improve an offense that averaged 5.1 rushing yards per attempt and ranked 5th nationally in total offense? In Toledo's case (as in most), nothing. Even with stellar QB Brian Jones' stone rolling on, the talent at this position continues. Junior Cedric Stevens has the prerequisite accolades to shine as (possibly more than) Jones did. Bruce Gradkowki will be ready for his instantaneous call-up if/when Stevens struggles. Either is capable of producing the same balanced attack as we've seen now for the two years of OC Rob Spense's tenure. Improvement here could be seen in a larger passing-TD total - 25 six-pointers in 2002 didn't reflect the air superiority demonstrated otherwise.

But often the endzone was ultimately reached; they just handed the ball to then-freshmen Trinity Dawson (12 TDs) or William Bratton (10 TDs). Classmate Astin Martin returns as the team's leading ground gainer. The trio represents an approach often conceived, but rarely pulled off well - they rotate each in for whatever given strength is needed at the time. All return, so look for little change in the Rocket's red-zone philosophies. With no fullback, Toledo still runs the ball regularly. Look for this area to be leaned on more as the air attack develops during season's start.

Their top four receivers all left, so the Rockets revamp here. With a new passer, too, the progress here has to compensate for any shortcomings of the backfield general. The junior trio of starters will get open and supply targets, but accordingly, with the passing game's immaturity, look for shorter routes to be run until everyone involved is on the same page. All-MAC first-team junior TE Andrew Clarke grounds the group as the Rocket's leading returning snarler. DC's had best account for him or get scorched in turn.

Upper classmen are all you will find along the Rocket's front line. Junior Nick Kaczur is the LT all right-handed QBs wish had their back. With senior Erik Fassen bookending this crew, DEs will be hard pressed to succeed to the passer. Interior size and experience assures the Rocket's sophomore running trio of inside yards to be had. This group has to improve only marginally to make this offense again be one of the nation's top 11 scoring units.

OT Nick Kaczur

written by Dave Hershorin

The unusual 4-4-3 defensive alignment Toledo employs means offenses have to inconsistently account for an eighth floater in the box. Often it is even the safety, so this variable affords the Rockets a really confusing TO (27 in 2002) formula. But defensive impact seems real hit-or-miss (no pun intended) - allowing 27 points per tilt while ranking 58th in total defense are red flags needing improvement if the team is to reach any next levels. It will be criminal if the

The line needs to improve on letting opponents get 4.2 yards per run. All starters return, so, with three of them being seniors, look for improvement, accordingly. DE Frank Ofiliz will be the key to increasing the unit's sack total of 23. Look for the line to be an overall barometer for measuring the Rocket's team success.

The Toledo linebackers are going to be hard-pressed to replace the contributions of all-conference talents David Gardner and Tom Ward. But OLBs Brock Dodrill (top returning tackler) and sophomore Keon Jackson seem ready for any task. Anthony Jordan moves back to an inside, upright position after spending 2002 on the line. His ability to bump up to the front - along with their 4-4-3 approach - will trip many OCs up. Watch to see if Jordan and/or others repositioning impacts opposing offenses. The LBs have the athleticism to improve this area considerably.

Ranking 54th against the pass means this facet needs as much improvement as the others if winning is to increase in Rocket Town. Wisconsin-transfer Michael Broussard has the physical package to make him a shutdown corner. His influx will raise the secondary's confidence level, with returning starters Brandon Hefflin (other corner) and junior free safety Patrick Body applying invaluable experience for improved results. Team-interception totals only have to rise above 18 to beat 2002's mark. That stat cries for attention, but allowing 12 yards per catch represents a more focused need Toledo better tweak.

LB Keon Jackson