Jayhawk Football Team to Host Toledo
Sept. 9, 2004
Mark Mangino Press Conference quotes (Sept. 7, 2004).
LAWRENCE, KAN. — Fresh off its 21-3 season-opening victory over Tulsa, the University Kansas (1-0) football team will host Toledo (0-1) in just the second-ever meeting between the two schools. Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m. in KU’s Memorial Stadium. The Jayhawks are looking for their first 2-0 start since the 1997 season when the team opened the year with three consecutive victories (UAB, TCU, Missouri).
Toledo, which is picked to win the MAC West Division by several preseason football magazines, lost at Minnesota 63-21 in its first game of the year on Sept. 4. The Rockets will play their first three games of the 2004 season on the road as UT travels to Ypsilanti, Mich., next week for a showdown with Eastern Michigan.
Kansas head coach Mark Mangino noted Toledo quarterback Bruce Gradkowski has several options when the junior wants to pass. Gradkowski threw for 3,210 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2003.
“They throw a lot of short passes and quick screens and they like to dump the ball off and move the pocket around,” said Mangino. “A lot of it is short stuff, but he will throw down the field. He can hurt you on the deep routes and does a good job of sitting in there and throwing the intermediate routes. He is a solid guy.”
In addition, several special events highlight the weekend…
Armed Forces Appreciation Day – Veterans and members of the Armed Forces may purchase tickets for themselves and their families for only $10. Saturday’s highlights include a pre-game flyover by the Air Force and an on-field presentation of a giant American flag.
Band Day – The KU Marching Jayhawks and area marching bands will be on Jayhawk Boulevard for a parade through campus beginning at 1:30 p.m. All bands in attendance will perform during halftime of the football game.
Family Weekend – Students are encouraged to bring their parents to campus to share the experience of Jayhawk football and to participate in other activities.
Spirit Day – Youth spirit groups will learn cheers, chants, routines and stunting from KU’s cheer and dance teams. For more information, please contact Kathy Jarzemkoski at 785-864-3002 or visit www.kuathletics.com.
For ticket information, please call 800-34-HAWKS.
