The University of Toledo football team opens its home slate by welcoming in FCS opponent Murray State on Saturday night at the Glass Bowl.
The Rockets (0-1) are coming off a season-opening loss at Kentucky, and Murray State (1-1) is coming off a defeat at Georgia.
Here are three things to watch in Saturday's game:
How will Toledo respond after loss to Kentucky?
Toledo found several positive signs in the season-opening loss at Kentucky and had a bye week to correct some of its mistakes on film. Expect the Rockets to be ready to go and to start fast as they return home to play in front of the Glass Bowl crowd. The home opener generally carries some extra excitement and adrenaline right off the bat, and Toledo should be itching to get back on the field after an early bye week. The Rockets were 5-2 at home last season and look to start off the 2019 home season with a win.
Can Toledo get pressure on Murray State quarterback Preston Rice?
Rice was very efficient in the loss at Georgia, completing 20-of-25 passes for 216 yards and a touchdown. He was able to create big plays against a good Georgia defense, including passes of 50 and 60 yards. A good pass rush for Toledo would disrupt the timing of Rice in the pocket and make things tougher on him throughout the game. Pass rushers like Jamal Hines on the edge and Nate Childress in the middle will look to create havoc in the backfield.
Can Toledo win the turnover battle?
Toledo recovered two fumbles against Kentucky but also turned the ball over twice with a Bryant Koback fumble and an interception from backup quarterback Carter Bradley. Toledo has emphasized taking the ball away on defense and protecting the ball on offense. In two games this season, Murray State has one interception and four lost fumbles on offense, while the Racers have created two turnovers with an interception and a fumble recovery on defense. Whether Toledo can come out ahead in the turnover battle against Murray State should be a big key in who wins the game.
First Published September 13, 2019, 4:35 p.m.
