When Toledo takes the field against Kentucky this Saturday, don’t expect Rockets head coach Jason Candle to deliver a viral pregame speech. That’s just not his style. Instead, Candle leans on the same steady message he’s preached since winter workouts — one rooted in consistency and culture.
That approach has worked. Toledo has become one of the most dependable Group of Five programs in college football, racking up 72 wins since 2016, the most of any MAC team. With one more victory, Candle will pass Gary Pinkel to become the winningest coach in program history.
Now, he’s preparing his team for a chance at one of the biggest upsets of opening weekend. The Rockets head to Lexington as just a 9.5-point underdog against Kentucky — a surprisingly small spread that reflects Toledo’s reputation as a giant-killer. Last season, they stunned Mississippi State 41-17 on the road.
> “We’re pretty process-driven here,” Candle told On3. “If they’re waiting for an epic speech before we walk out on the field, it’s going to be a long day.”
A Culture of Stability
In an era defined by the transfer portal and NIL chaos, Toledo has become an outlier. The Rockets did not lose a single player from their 2024 two-deep to the portal. Candle even jokes that the same SEC teams he schedules every year are also the ones calling his top players once the season ends.
What keeps them together? Stability. Toledo is the only FBS program with its head coach, offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, and strength coach all entering their sixth straight season together. That continuity has helped players buy in — and it shows on the field. The Rockets have produced an NFL Draft pick in four consecutive years, highlighted by cornerback Quinyon Mitchell going No. 22 overall in 2024.
Key Players Return
This fall, Toledo returns 11 starters, including quarterback Tucker Gleason, who has already logged 15 career starts. That experience gives the Rockets confidence heading into Lexington.
> “We’ve established a really good culture here,” Candle said. “When adversity shows up — and it will against a team like Kentucky — our guys know how to stick together and push through.”
The Challenge Ahead
For Candle, Saturday represents more than just another season opener. It’s a chance for his team to showcase its brand on a national stage.
> “The first game is hard enough, let alone going on the road to play an SEC school,” Candle said. “It’s a tremendous opportunity, one our kids look forward to all year long.”
Candle knows the odds. Kentucky boasts SEC talent and depth, but Toledo’s edge lies in its unity, culture, and proven ability to punch above its weight.
> “There’s strength in staying together,” he said. “Every young man who comes into a program is searching for consistency. We’ve built that here, and it gives our guys confidence when they step on the field.”
As Week 1 storylines unfold — from top-10 showdowns to Bill Belichick’s college debut — don’t be surprised if Toledo finds itself in the headlines once again. After all, Candle’s Rockets have made a habit of turning consistency into chaos for the teams that underestimate them.
