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TOLEDO -- The rumor mill had been swirling for a week and Friday it became official. University of Toledo head football coach Tim Beckman is leaving to take the same position at Illinois. 

"I really wish Tim, on behalf of the entire University of Toledo family, the very best at Illinois. He'll do great," said Toledo Athletic Director Mike O'Brien.

Beckman informed the team Friday morning of his departure. Offensive coordinator Matt Campbell has been named interim head coach and will coach the Rockets at the Military Bowl vs Air Force on December 28th.

"I learned about it this morning from Mr. O'Brien," said Campbell, regarding his interim tag. "I look forward to the opportunity, the challenge...because it will certainly be that."

Although the announcement wasn't official until Friday, most of the players suspected something was going on at Thursday's practice.

"Right before practice, someone had it on their phone..there was an article," said senior cornerback Desmond Marrow. "After practice there was reporters and people outside and we saw it all over Twitter and the ticker on ESPN and that's when we knew there was some truth to it."

O'Brien said the search for a new head coach will likely begin on Monday, but their is a possibility of a hire from within.

"It's always been a dream of mine to be a head football coach and I've certainly had the opportunity to be a part of the University of Toledo and I love what Toledo stands for. My sole purpose right now and focus is these young men and preparing this staff and these young men to go play a great game here on the 28th of December," said Campbell on the possibility of being the next UT head football coach.

What are you feelings on coach Beckman taking the Illinois job? Who would you like to see become the next head football coach?