The Toledo Rockets are gearing up to face the Buffalo Bulls in what promises to be an exciting college football matchup on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 12 p.m. ET. The game, set to take place at UB Stadium in Buffalo, New York, is a pivotal moment for both teams as they push deeper into the Mid-American Conference (MAC) schedule.
In this article, we’ll provide comprehensive coverage of how to watch the game, including TV options, live streaming services, a detailed preview of both teams, key players to watch, betting odds, predictions, and everything fans need to know ahead of the big game.
How to Watch Toledo vs. Buffalo
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 12:00 p.m. ET
Venue: UB Stadium, Buffalo, New York
TV Broadcast: ESPN+
Live Streaming: FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, YouTube TV
There are several ways fans can catch this game live:
- ESPN+: ESPN+ is the primary broadcaster for this game. This is a subscription-based service offering live college football games along with a wide variety of other sports programming.
- FuboTV: Known for its focus on sports, FuboTV carries ESPN and offers a free trial for new subscribers. This is a great option for fans looking to watch live sports without committing to cable.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu offers live streaming of sports channels, including ESPN, so subscribers can tune into the game through this platform.
- Sling TV: Sling TV is another cost-effective alternative to traditional cable, offering ESPN in its channel packages.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV also includes ESPN in its lineup, providing another reliable option for live streaming.
Make sure to confirm local listings and set reminders so you won’t miss any of the action as these two MAC rivals face off.
Team Previews
Toledo Rockets
Season Overview
The Toledo Rockets have long been one of the top programs in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), and they’ve maintained that reputation this season. Head coach Jason Candle has built a balanced, high-scoring offense complemented by a solid defense, making Toledo one of the more dangerous teams in the MAC.
The Rockets have navigated a tough non-conference schedule early in the season, and now that MAC play is fully underway, they’ll be looking to secure their position at the top of the standings. With a combination of veteran leadership and exciting young talent, Toledo has all the ingredients to make a run for the MAC Championship.
Offense
Toledo is known for its explosive offensive attack. Led by quarterback Dequan Finn, the Rockets boast a dynamic passing game that has kept opposing defenses on their heels. Finn’s ability to extend plays with his legs and his strong arm makes him a dual-threat quarterback that can create opportunities both in the air and on the ground.
The Rockets’ running game is equally potent, anchored by running back Penny Boone. Boone has shown an ability to break big runs, and his physicality makes him a tough back to bring down. Behind a strong offensive line, Boone should find plenty of room to operate against Buffalo’s front seven.
Toledo’s wide receiving corps is deep, with Jerjuan Newton and DeMeer Blankumsee leading the way. Newton, the team’s top target, has been effective at stretching the field, while Blankumsee provides a reliable option in the intermediate passing game. Tight end Jamal Turner has also emerged as a red zone threat, giving Finn yet another target in crucial situations.
Defense
Toledo’s defense has been solid this season, particularly in defending the run. The front seven, led by Desjuan Johnson on the defensive line and Dyontae Johnson at linebacker, has been effective at controlling the line of scrimmage. Johnson’s ability to shed blockers and disrupt opposing backfields will be a key factor in stopping Buffalo’s running game.
The Rockets’ secondary, featuring standout cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, has been aggressive in coverage. Mitchell’s ball-hawking ability makes him a threat to create turnovers, and his matchup against Buffalo’s receiving corps will be one to watch.
Key Players to Watch for Toledo
- Dequan Finn (QB): A dual-threat quarterback, Finn’s ability to extend plays and make big throws downfield will be critical for Toledo’s offensive success.
- Penny Boone (RB): Boone’s combination of size and speed makes him a dangerous weapon in Toledo’s run game.
- Jerjuan Newton (WR): Newton’s ability to stretch the field and make contested catches will be pivotal for Toledo’s passing attack.
- Desjuan Johnson (DL): Johnson’s presence on the defensive line will be essential in stopping Buffalo’s rushing attack and getting pressure on their quarterback.
- Quinyon Mitchell (CB): Mitchell’s coverage skills and ability to force turnovers will play a key role in limiting Buffalo’s passing game.
Buffalo Bulls
Season Overview
The Buffalo Bulls are in a transitional phase under head coach Maurice Linguist, but the program remains a consistent contender in the MAC. Buffalo has had success in recent years due to their strong running game and stout defense, and despite some early-season struggles, they’re looking to make a statement against Toledo.
Buffalo’s identity revolves around physical football. They prioritize controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, which has helped them remain competitive, even against tough non-conference opponents. The Bulls will need to execute their game plan effectively to take down a high-powered Toledo team.
Offense
Buffalo’s offensive philosophy is built around the running game. The Bulls rely heavily on running back Mike Washington, who has been one of the MAC’s top rushers this season. Washington is a workhorse back capable of carrying the load for the Bulls’ offense, and his ability to grind out yards and wear down defenses will be essential against Toledo’s stout front seven.
At quarterback, Cole Snyder has been a steady presence for the Bulls. While the passing game hasn’t been the focal point of Buffalo’s offense, Snyder has shown the ability to manage games effectively and make key throws when necessary. His connection with wide receiver Jamari Gassett will be a crucial factor in Buffalo’s offensive success, as Gassett has been the Bulls’ primary deep threat.
Buffalo’s offensive line, anchored by Max Okechukwu, will be tasked with creating lanes for Washington and protecting Snyder against a fierce Toledo pass rush. The Bulls’ ability to control the line of scrimmage will likely dictate the flow of the game.
Defense
The Bulls’ defense is led by their front seven, which has been effective at stopping the run and getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Linebacker James Patterson is the heart and soul of Buffalo’s defense, consistently leading the team in tackles and providing leadership on the field. Patterson’s ability to diagnose plays and make stops at the line of scrimmage will be vital in containing Toledo’s dynamic offense.
In the secondary, cornerback Marcus Fuqua is Buffalo’s top defender in coverage. Fuqua will likely be matched up against Toledo’s top receivers, and his ability to limit big plays will be a key factor in the Bulls’ success.
Buffalo’s defense has thrived on forcing turnovers, and they’ll need to create extra possessions to keep pace with Toledo’s high-scoring offense.
Key Players to Watch for Buffalo
- Mike Washington (RB): Washington’s ability to control the game on the ground will be essential for Buffalo’s offensive strategy.
- Cole Snyder (QB): Snyder’s game management and ability to make key throws will be critical for Buffalo’s offense.
- James Patterson (LB): Patterson’s leadership and tackling ability make him the cornerstone of Buffalo’s defense.
- Marcus Fuqua (CB): Fuqua’s coverage skills will be tested against Toledo’s talented receiving corps.
- Max Okechukwu (OL): Okechukwu’s ability to anchor the offensive line and create space for Washington will be key to Buffalo’s success.
Odds and Predictions
As game day approaches, the betting odds are starting to take shape. Toledo, with their high-powered offense and balanced defense, is favored to win, but Buffalo’s physical style of play could make for a closer game than expected.
- Spread: Toledo -6.5
- Over/Under: 54.5 points
Prediction
Toledo’s offense, led by Dequan Finn, has proven to be one of the most explosive in the MAC, and it will likely be difficult for Buffalo to keep pace with their scoring output. The key for Buffalo will be to establish the run game early and control the clock, keeping Toledo’s offense off the field for as long as possible.
Defensively, Toledo’s ability to stop the run and force Buffalo into passing situations will likely tip the scales in their favor. If the Rockets can shut down Mike Washington and limit Buffalo’s offensive rhythm, it’s hard to see how the Bulls will be able to generate enough points to win.
Final Score Prediction: Toledo 34, Buffalo 24
Players to Watch
Toledo Rockets
- Dequan Finn (QB): Finn’s dual-threat ability is what makes Toledo’s offense so dangerous. He’s a capable runner and a smart passer, and his ability to create plays outside of structure will keep Buffalo’s defense on its toes.
- Penny Boone (RB): Boone has been a revelation for Toledo this season, providing a reliable option in the run game and helping to balance the offense. Look for Boone to have a big game if Toledo can control the line of scrimmage.
- Jerjuan Newton (WR): As Toledo’s top receiver, Newton will play a significant role in stretching the field and opening up opportunities for the offense.
- Desjuan Johnson (DL): Johnson’s ability to get into the backfield and disrupt Buffalo’s running game will be crucial for Toledo’s defensive success.
Buffalo Bulls
- Mike Washington (RB): Washington is the centerpiece of Buffalo’s offense, and if he gets going early, he could make life difficult for Toledo’s defense.
- Cole Snyder (QB): Snyder may not have the same flashy numbers as Finn, but his ability to manage the game and limit mistakes will be important for Buffalo’s chances.
- James Patterson (LB): Patterson will be tasked with leading Buffalo’s defense, and his ability to contain Finn and Boone will be key to slowing down Toledo’s offense.
The Toledo Rockets and Buffalo Bulls will collide in a pivotal MAC showdown on October 12, 2024, and the stakes are high for both programs. With each team looking to secure their position in the conference standings, this matchup could have a significant impact on the trajectory of their seasons.
Make sure to tune in to ESPN+ or live stream the game on FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV. Whether you’re rooting for the Rockets or the Bulls, this is a game you won’t want to miss!
