The Toledo Rockets held their final practice Thursday in preparation for their game vs. Florida International University at the Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl Friday, Dec. 21.
The game will be televised at 12:30 p.m. on ESPN.
Later Thursday evening, the Toledo band and cheerleaders fired up Rocket fans visiting the island with a pep rally at the Dolphin Cay Lawn at the Atlantis resort where the team is staying.
Head Football Coach Jason Candle said the trip has been a special one for the team.“It’s really cool to take your seniors some place. I think it’s a really special thing to be able to do that out of the country,” Candle said. “It’s been fun to watch them embrace that. It’s been fun to watch them use their platform to give more than they take and to be model citizens. I really appreciate that about our football team.”
Throughout the week, players have commented on the amazing weather and the beautiful Atlantis resort, as well as the native food.
“Aside from the weather, [the best part has] been some of the amazing food and taking it all in,” said Toledo senior wide receiver Cody Thompson. “It’s the first time I had conch — I think that’s how you say it — so I’m going to have to find a place up in Ohio where I can get some of that.”
But Friday, all the focus will be on the game and the Rockets’ opponent.
“They’re a really fast, explosive offense. We have to do a good job of making them uncomfortable and shutting down the run. If we do that, we’ll have a good chance,” said Rocket senior linebacker Richard Olekanma.