Zachary Ford saw an oblong object, green turf, and no one in a Western Michigan jersey.
Four seconds later, the Toledo safety was in the end zone, producing the signature moment in a statement victory for the Rockets, who beat back the impending doom in a thundering 34-15 win over Western Michigan.
The complete performance UT coveted all season was finally claimed out of the lost-and-found bin, as the Rockets reemerged in the chaotic Mid-American Conference West with volcanic force.
“The resolve of our football team and the persistence of our staff is what makes Toledo a special place,” UT coach Jason Candle said.