Battle for the Island Showdown Trophy
By: Big Island Staffer 11/7/24
With the Rainbow Warriors sitting at 4-5 and three games remaining, each week is crucial to keeping their bowl hopes alive. After a slow start to the season with a couple of heartbreaking 4th quarter losses, the resilient Rainbow Warriors have bounced back to win two league games in a row. They look to extend that win streak to three by defeating league rival UNLV who enter the game at 6-2 overall and 2-1 in conference. This game matches up one of the top running attacks in the conference versus one of the top run defenses in the conference.
Dennis Thurman and his defensive crew are giving up just over 119 yards per game which is ranked 35th in the FBS and 3rd in the Mountain West Conference. However, they are coming off a signature win on the road at Fresno State where the defense gave up a total of 176 yards for the game which was their best outing this year. They will have their hands full with the Rebels’ rushing attack orchestrated by former UH coach Brennan Marion that ranks 6th in the nation in average rushing yards per game and 2nd in the Mountain West behind Boise State and Heisman hopeful Ashton Jeanty. Making the matchup a bit tougher for the Warriors is the loss of two regulars on the defensive line in Jamar Sekona and Ezra Evaimalo. Malachi Finau and Daniel “Sauce” Williams have taken on expanded roles and came up big in Fresno accounting for five tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack. Although UNLV features the run game early and often they also have one of the more dynamic receivers in the conference in Ricky White III who has 51 catches for 671 yards and nine touchdowns this year. Cam Stone, the top rated CB in the FBS according to PFF.com will undoubtedly get the assignment to contain White on the perimeter which makes for another intriguing matchup to watch.
On offense the Warriors have started to find their groove in the last two games with a balanced attack that has utilized Senior QB Brayden Schager in more RPO play calls which has kept the defense on its toes. Tylan Hines has also taken on a more expanded role, totaling 15 touches in Fresno splitting time in the backfield and split out as a receiver. The run game has also been bolstered by using tight ends Oakie Salave’a and Devon Tauaefa as blockers to seal edge rushers. A key for Saturday will be the health of top receiver Pofele Ashlock who left the game at Fresno after taking a shot to the head that was ruled as targeting. Starting lineman Zhen Sotelo and Mike Milovale also left the game in Fresno due to injuries and did not return. Luke Felix-Fualalo and backup Judah Kaio came in and the line didn’t seem to miss a beat especially with the two fourth quarter scoring drives to cap off the dramatic win with 15 seconds left.
If the ‘Bows can rekindle some Manoa Magic on Saturday it will pull the team back to .500 at 5-5 and give the team a shot at qualifying for the Hawaii Bowl for the first time since 2019. The game will be televised nationally on CBSSN with the kickoff starting earlier at 4pm Hawaii Time. It will also be Military Night where all active, DOD civilians, reservists and retired members of the military will receive 30%-50% off tickets. Pack the Ching Warrior fans and let’s take back the Golden Pineapple!
📸:WAA Micah Soga
The Chase Game: An opportunity for Hawaii Football
By Brandon Tamanaha 9/17/24
While conference realignment has taken its toll on the University of Hawai’i, there are possible opportunities to get back on a national spotlight.
Currently UH is tied in to a contract from Spectrum Sports that expires July 31, 2025. In the deal UH receives around $3.1 million a year if Spectrum can broadcast at least seven home football games with Pay Per View and 60 other sporting events. UH also receives a fraction of the Mountain West TV media money if the league share is more than what Spectrum is giving.
This would be the year for negotiating any contract extension with Spectrum or seeking other TV networks that could make a better offer. Another option would be for UH to be part of the next Mountain West TV deal that expires in 2026 but will start having negotiations in 2025. Since Hawai’i is a football only member they would receive much less than a full time Mountain West school. This means UH will have to find another network to produce games for their other sports or have Spectrum do it with a new deal but with less money.
There is still an attraction for Hawai’i Football having their own time zone for an exclusive viewing window for TV networks that give the phrase “Hawai’i Test” for folks on the continent staying up late in the early AM to watch the Rainbow Warriors play at home.
Another attraction from a different side is the sports gambling world. The “Chase game” as betters call it to make up for any losses or hoping for one more win with it being the last game of the evening. This could lead to a future partnership with a sports betting company or casinos. Circa Resort and Casino in Las Vegas already dubbed themselves as the “Home for Hawaii Football” in the largest sportsbook venue in the world. Maybe UH can soon cash in on these opportunities.
📸:Circa Sports
Will Hawaii add a 13th game for 2025?
By Brandon Tamanaha 9/15/24
As it gets harder each year to secure non conference opponents in the future due to conference realignment, the University of Hawai’i football team has yet to find a 13th game for 2025.
As it stands right now the Rainbow Warriors open the season Week Zero at home against ACC opponent Stanford on August 23rd. Then there are three more non conference games(8/30 at Arizona, 9/6 Sam Houston, 9/13 Portland State). Since Portland State is an FCS opponent it would be almost certain that UH will not add a second FCS team on their 2025 schedule as a second FCS win will not count towards bowl eligibility.
Thanks to the help of FBSchedules.com, here is a list of FBS teams that need to fill one or more games on their 2025 schedule to make it to the minimum 12 games. Also note all these teams listed except for Ole Miss, Wake Forest, Washington State and WKU have not scheduled an FCS opponent yet.
Hawai’i open dates 9/20,9/27
(11/29 could be an option but unlikely due to conference scheduling and championship games the next week)
As of 9/15/24
App State 9/20
Baylor 9/20,9/27
Cal 9/27
Duke 9/20,9/27
FIU 9/20,9/27
Kennesaw State 9/27
Kent State 9/27
LSU 9/20,9/27
Miami (FL) 9/27
New Mexico State 9/20
Northwestern 9/20,9/27
Ole Miss 9/27
Pitt 9/20,9/27
Rutgers 9/20,9/27
Temple 9/27
ULM 9/27
USC 9/20,9/27
Wake Forest 9/20, 9/27
Washington State 9/20
WKU 9/20,9/27
2024 Receivers preview
By: Westside Trojan 8/22/24 📸:Gavin Yasunari
Throughout the 2023 football season you could see the offensive passing game improve right before your eyes. A lot had to do with the improved running game to finish out the season and an improvement in pass protection. If this year’s edition of the offensive line can improve from last year, this receiving group can be special and be one of the better group in the history of Hawaii football.
Although we may not see Steven McBride this season, we have a very well round and talented receiving that may very well open up some eyes. To begin the season the starting four will be Alex Perry 6’5” 195 wide out who possesses speed, size and athleticism. He’s showed flashes of potential last season and expects to play a big role stretching the field and being a reliable receiver. On the other side will be veteran Jonah Panoke 6’2” 200 senior is very sure handed and very reliable when in the game. If he can stay away from injuries, Panoke will have a career season to cap off his UH career. Returning in the slot positions will be All-MWC receiver Pofele Ashlock 6’2” 175 and Koali Nishigaya 5’7’ 165. Ashlock, coming off a freshman All American season will be leading the receiving group and hopes to improve on his numbers from last year, getting bigger and stronger in the offseason can only propel him to a bigger and brighter future in this offense. Mister Reliable, Nishigaya although on the smaller side, is a great route runner and is very good at finding the open space. If the offense needs a first down, Nishigaya is the player that is very capable of getting the job done.
The receiving group is very deep at every position. Nick Cenacle and Tamaota Mokiao-Atimalala will be rotating in and out with Ashlock and Nishigaya. Both are capable of the big play and will play an extensive amount this season. Cenacle big play ability was displayed versus San Diego State last season as he caught a Schager bomb and took it to the house. Atimalala showed his explosiveness last season vs Colorado state as he took a misdirection sweep and turned the corner for a touchdown verses Colorado State.
Tylan Hines, Spencer Curtis, Dekel Crowdus, Karsyn Pupunu will be rotating on the outside. Tylan Hines will be coming over from the running back position and will be expecting to create big YAC plays for the offense. Hines displays shiftiness and is very explosive off the line, coaches have compared him to a mini Tyreek Hill and big things are expected from him. Spencer Curtis a transfer from Nevada has come in and learned the offense quickly. He’s sure handed and a very solid reliable route runner. Dekel Crowdus, transfer from Kentucky is a great addition to the offense. He’s a very fast and very good route runner, the potential with Crowdus is sky high once he gets a 100% grasp of the run n shoot offense. Last season, Pupunu showed he can be a very reliable possession receiver and will be called upon on a consistent basis.
Alex Perry
#0 SO. 6’5” 195 24 rec, 277 yards, 3tds
Jonah Panoke
#1 SR. 6’2” 200 20 rec, 194 yds. 1 td
Tylan Hines
# 2 SO. 5’7” 175 27 carries, 93 yds. before getting injured.
Nick Cenacle
#3 JR. 6’2” 195 23 rec, 252 yds. 1td
Pofele Ashlock
#5 6’2” 175 SO. 83 rec, 832 yds. 9tds
Dekel Crowdus
#6 5’11” 170 JR. transfer from Kentucky
Steven McBride
#7 6’1” 165 SR. 63 rec, 1024 yds. 9tds
Tamatoa Mokiao-Atimalala
#8 5’10” 190 SR. 4 rec. 24yds. 1td
Spencer Curtis
#14 5’11” 180 GR. Transfer from Nevada
Chad Owens Jr.
#22 5’10” 180 SO.
Koali Nishigawa
#23 5’7´165 SR. 39rec, 322 yds
Jeramiah White
#24 6’0” 180 Fr. Kaimuki HS Multi use All State player (PWO)
Blaze Kamoku
#80 5’8” 170 SO. Transfer from Olivet Nazarene
Maclane Watkins
#81 6’5” 195 RF. Kennedy Catholic HS
Josiah Fetui
#83 6’3” 170 FR. Saint Louis HS
Jarvis “Dino” Heimuli
#84 6’3” 190 FR. Euless Trinity HS (brother of Pofele Ashlock)
Carlito Capanang
#86 5’6” 160 JR. Aiea HS
Armando Lewis Jr.
#88 6’2” 205 FR. Canyon Springs HS, NV
Nick Delgadillo
#89 6’0” 190 Rf. Saint Louis HS
Kayde Mahuka wr/pk
#36 5’9” 180 JR. Transfer from Olivet Nazarene
2024 Defensive Line preview
By: Big Island Staffer 8/20/24 📸:Brandon Tamanaha
Flipping to the other side of the trenches. The defensive line will set the tone for new defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman. His attacking pro style defense will rely on guys up front controlling the line of scrimmage to keep linebackers clean and quarterbacks uncomfortable in the pocket.
There is a lot of experience in the groups with players who have previously played at USC, Cal, Nebraska, East Carolina, UNLV and Nevada.
Daniel “Sauce” Williams, Ezra Evaimalo, Elijah Robinson, Anthony Sagapolutele and Tariq Jones are the returning players who saw the most playing time in 2023. Williams, Evaimalo and Sagapolutele were key pieces in the interior rotation while Jones and Robinson were two of the top edge rushers. Williams, who is one of the strongest Warriors is expected to expand his role and play more downs this year as he has made huge strides in the offseason strength and conditioning program. Evaimalo who led the team in sacks in 2023 with 3.5 is one of the best pass rushers from the interior and hopes to build on last season’s numbers. Elijah Robinson, a transfer from East Carolina who racked up 3 sacks in 2023 is also expected to have a breakout year in his final year of eligibility. Jones, who came on strong in the second half of the 2023 season returns to build on his 2 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss in 2023.
The experienced core group of lineman is joined by a strong group of recruits. Headlining the class are three experienced transfers that will bolster the interior line rotation. Jamar Sekona, a transfer from USC where he saw limited playing time in his three years, hopes for an expanded role with his last year of eligibility. Dion Washington is another FBS transfer from Nevada who will be reunited with Coach Chang and Coach Sheffield who were on the staff at Nevada during his playing time. Jordan Crawford is the lone JC transfer coming to Honolulu from Fullerton College where he helped his team to a 10-1 overall record. In addition to the transfers a handful of pass rushers from the prep ranks joined the team this fall. Alvin Puefua a 3 star recruit with numerous FBS offers headlines the group, at 6’4” 335lbs he will be battling for playing time at the defensive tackle position. Nazaiah Caravallo, Noah Wily and Tristan Waiamau-Galindo are three local edge rushers who pledged to stay home and will bring some speed and athleticism off the edge but may need a year or two to develop. Rounding out the prep recruits are a pair of commits from Samoa who gray shirted and enrolled in spring 2024 after graduating from high school in 2023. Vaifanua Peko graduated from Samoana HS and Lesterleisene Lagafuaina graduated from Tafuna HS. Both will compete at defensive end and special teams this fall.
Rounding out the group of pass rushers are the returning players looking for more prominent roles in 2024. At the top of the list is Wynden Ho’ohuli who is the most decorated recruit coming out of the prep ranks but he has dealt with injuries during his time with the Warriors. A clean bill of health should allow him to showcase the potential that tagged him as a 4 star recruit before signing with Nebraska. Jackie Johnson is a name that has been mentioned frequently during fall camp as someone who fans should keep an eye on. He has been difficult to block off the edge and his stature have drawn comparisons to all-conference player Kaimana Padello. Patrick Hisatake, a transfer from Cal who returned home, brings a long athletic body off the edge and is looking to break into the rotation. Aiden McComber, Zorem Petelo and Malachi Finau are entering their second year in the program. Finau saw limited time as a freshman while McComber and Petelo redshirted to keep their remaining four years of eligibility.
In addition to the new players on the defensive line there are also new but familiar faces leading this group on the coaching staff. Jeff Reinebold returns to the program in charge of defensive tackles after a stint in the CFL coaching special teams with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Jordan Pu’u Robinson also returns after a year coaching the defensive line at The Citadel and will lead the defensive ends.
Defensive Line (alphabetical order)
Nazaiah “Red” Caravallo / 6’2” / 225lbs / Fr. / Campbell HS
Jordan Crawford / 6’2” / 285lbs / So. / Fullerton College
Ezra Evaimalo / 6’2” / 260lbs / Sr. / Kamehameha Kapalama
Malachi Finau / 6’2” / 285lbs / So. / St John Bosco HS
Patrick Hisatake / 6’5” / 255lbs / Jr. / Cal
Wynden Ho’ohuli / 6’3” / 240lbs / Jr. / Nebraska
Jackie Johnson / 6’0” / 245lbs / Jr. / Lawrence Tech Univ
Tariq Jones / 6’2” / 250lbs / Jr. / McDonogh 35 HS
Micah Kaonohi-Kaihenui / 5’11” / 250lbs / So. / Kamehameha Kapalama
Lesterleisene Lagafuaina / 6’4” / 225lbs / Fr. / Tafuna HS
Tevita Loketi / 5’11” / 265lbs / Jr. / Kaimuki HS
Aiden McComber / 6’0” / 275lbs / RsFr. / Bishop Gorman HS
Zorem Petelo / 6’4” / 255lbs / RsFr. / Layton Christian Academy
Vaifanua Peko / 6’1” / 225lbs / Fr. / Samoana HS
Alvin Puefua / 6’4” / 335lbs / Fr. / West HS
Elijah Robinson / 6’4” / 260lbs / Grad / East Carolina
Anthony Sagapolutele / 5’11” / 260lbs / Sr. / UNLV
Josh Sagapolutele / 6’0” / 250lbs / RsFr. / Saint Louis School
Jamar Sekona / 6’2” / 295lbs / Sr. / USC
Tristan Waiamau-Galindo / 6’3” / 240lbs / Fr. / Kamehameha Kapalama
Dion Washington / 6’2” / 290lbs / Jr. / Nevada
Daniel “Sauce” Williams / 5’11” / 320lbs / Sr. / Trinity Valley CC
Travion Williams / 6’4” / 235lbs / Sr. / Stanislaus State
Noah Wily / 6’3” / 200lbs / Fr. / Saint Louis School
Jeremiah Wright / 6’5” / 230lbs / Fr. / Lynden Christian HS
2024 Secondary preview
By: Westside Trojan 8/19/24 📸: Micah Soga
The Rainbow Warriors return a very experienced secondary at corner and safety. Not usually accustomed to depth, Hawaii returns with a secondary that is two deep at every position.
At corner, you will see a rotation of Cam Stone, Caleb "C-bo" Brown, Devyn King and JoJo Forrest, all who have played an immense amount of minutes here at UH. Virdel Edwards is still recovering from a foot injury that he sustained from last year's Oregon game and is getting back into game form hopefully sometime this season.
Cam Stone is assumed to be a lock at the starting CB position and with a great season has the potential to end up on NFL roster next year. Stone finished the season with 24 tackles, six pass breakups and 1 INT. Brown, King and Forrest all have a ton of experienced and contributed heavily in the past. On paper we're expecting a very experienced secondary to cause havoc and give opponents problems this year.
Safety Peter Manuma brings back a ton of experience starting all 13 games last season and led the defense with 87 tackles(60 solo), 5.5 tackles for loss and threeinterceptions. Look for Justin Sinclair, Meki Pel, Kona Moore to try and get the other safety starting position as well as playing time.
At nickelback, sophomore Elijah Palmer should be the starter after appearing in 11 games and starting seven as a true freshman. Palmer recorded 37 tackles and two interceptions one in the UAlbany and the other in the Colorado State game last year.
Fun Fact: Deliyon Freeman won well known YOUTUBE'S Destroying 1 on 1 competition earlier this spring.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xv79TrHkf24
DB 6'0" 195 lbs
1 Peter Manuma
Jr. 'Ewa Beach, O'ahu Campbell HS
DB 6'0" 190 lbs
2 Kona Moore
So. Kapolei, O'ahu Saint Louis School
DB 5'10" 200 lbs
4 Cam Stone
Sr. Angleton, Texas Angleton HS Wyoming
DB 5'10" 185 lbs
6 Justin Sinclair
Sr. East Palo Alto, Calif. St. Francis HS College of San Mateo
DB 5'11" 185 lbs
7 Meki Pei
Sr. Honolulu, O'ahu ‘Iolani HS Washington
DB 5'11" 170 lbs
8 JoJo Forest
Sr. Gardena, Calif. Mission Viejo HS Oregon State
DB 5'8" 175 lbs
9 Elijah Palmer
So. Las Vegas, Nev. Bishop Gorman HS
DB 6'1" 170 lbs
13 Caleb "C-Bo" Brown
Sr. Anniston Ala. Lithia Springs HS Butler Community College
DB 5'11" 165 lbs
14 Jaheim Wilson-Jones
Jr. Yuma, Ariz. Gila Ridge HS West Los Angeles College
DB 6'0" 190 lbs
20 Cam Bell
Sr. Pompana Beach, Fla. Coral Springs HSCollege of the Canyons
DB 6'0" 200 lbs
21 Fabian Ross
So. Las Vegas, Nev. Bishop Gorman HS USC
DB 6'0" 190 lbs
22 Ezekiel Rodrigues
Fr. Kane'ohe, O'ahu Mililani HS
DB 6'2" 215 lbs
23 Virdel Edwards II
Sr. Plano, Texas Prestonwood Christian Academy Iowa State
DB 5'11" 170 lbs
24 Devyn King
Sr. Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif. Junipero Serra HS Maryland
DB 6'2" 180 lbs
25 Matagi Thompson
So. Honolulu, O'ahu Punahou School
DB 5'10" 170 lbs
26 Deliyon Freeman
Rf. Detroit, Mich. East Coweta HS
DB 5'9" 190 lbs
27 Makana Meyer
So. Waipahu O'ahu Mililani HS
DB 6'1" 170 lbs
29 Kilinahe Mendiola-Jensen
Jr. Pearl City, O‘ahu Punahou School UNLV
DB 5'10" 190 lbs
31 Kea Rodrigues
Jr. Wai'anae, O'ahu Moanalua HS Pasadena City College
DB 6'1" 190 lbs
37 Riis Weber
So. Kailua, O'ahu Kailua HS Idaho State
DB 5'10" 165 lbs
39 Brandon Shah
So. Livermore, Calif. Granada HS
DB 5'10" 185 lbs
46 Kellen Robins-Beers
Jr. Makaha, O'ahu Damien Memorial HS Missouri Valley College
DB 5'11" 190 lbs
47 Kimo Holo Holt-Mossman
Sr. Kula, Maui Kamehameha Schools-MauiChabot College
2024 Offensive Line Preview
By: Big Island Staffer 8/16/24 📸:Micah Soga
As we get closer to the start of the 2024 Rainbow Warrior football season we are going to start our position group assessments where games are won and lost, in the trenches.
Starting on the offensive side of the ball, the big hogs upfront return four players who saw extensive playing time in 2023. Maurice Ta’ala (6’1”, 325lbs) and Sergio Muasau (5’11”, 300lbs) saw significant playing time at the guard positions and Kaena Decambra (6’3”, 300lbs) and Luke Felix-Fualalo (6-8”, 310lbs) gained valuable experience at both tackle positions. Decambra had the responsibility of protecting Schager’s blind side last year in 11 of the 13 games he saw action. At the other tackle position, Felix-Fualalo was graded by PFF as one of the top performing lineman in the Mountain West Conference and has been recognized by many pre-season prognosticators as an all-conference type of talent. Ta’ala has routinely been reported as one of the strongest players in the weight room and Muasau started all 13 games last year at left guard. The lone starter that was lost to graduation was Eliki Tanuvasa who was a mainstay at center during his Rainbow Warrior career.
In the offseason the ‘Bows welcomed several recruits to bolster the depth of the offensive line and to provide added competition to the group. Christian Perry (6-8, 300lbs) was literally a big target coming from Riverside CC who is expected to compete for a tackle position this fall. Isaac Maugaleoo (6’8, 335lbs) is a gray shirt recruit who stepped foot on campus in the spring after graduating from Campbell HS in 2023. Tu’i Muti (6’1, 310lbs) was an all-state performer that decided to stay home after graduating from Punahou. Although Muti manned the left tackle position at Punahou he is transitioning to the interior line positions at UH. Boogie Henderson (6’5”, 320lbs) is another big and powerful body from the California high school ranks that has coaches excited. Jay Tauala-Harris (6’2”, 265lbs) rounds out the offensive line recruits which boasts the most size in the Coach Chang era. Two new additions to the offensive line that have been added from the defensive side of the ball are Kuao Peihopa (6’3”, 295lbs) and Dean Briski (6’5” 290lbs). Peihopa will challenge for a spot on the interior of the line while Briski is being developed at the tackle position.
Returning to the line with an additional year of experience is KT Carter (6’4”, 275lbs), Micah Mariteragi (6’4”, 300lbs), James Milovale (6’6”, 330lbs), Zhen Sotelo (6’3”, 305lbs) and Ethan Spencer (6’1, 300lbs). KT Carter’s upside has been compared to current NFL player Ilm Manning due to their similar size, athletic ability and hailing from the Arizona prep ranks.Carter might need another year to develop his body but he looks to be the future at a tackle spot. Milovale, is another long body that redshirted last year to learn the system and transform his body. He will challenge and provide insurance at the tackle position. Sotelo, is a rugged interior lineman that plays with a nasty streak on the field. Mariteragi, brings P4 experience and will compete for time at both tackle spots. Spencer looks to have the inside track at the center position keeping the trend of former Crusaders calling the signals on the line.
Judah Kaio (6’4”, 305lbs), Lautaimi Manuma (6’3”, 270lbs) and Ismail Ganley (6’2”, 280lbs) round out the offensive line group for 2024 as walkons who play a valuable role in preparing the defense for opponents each week.
The offensive line group has the size and experience to do the job and it will be interesting as fall camp winds down on how many lineman will be included in the rotation? We can’t remember the last time UH had this much length at the tackle positions (6’8” Fualalo, 6’8” Maugaleoo, 6’8” Perry, 6’6” Milovale, 6’5” Briski, 6’4” DeCambra, 6’4” Mariteragi, Carter, 6’3”). The options are plentiful and this group will be counted on to keep QB Brayden Schager protected which will allow him to use the many weapons available in the Run n Shoot.
Position Group (alphabetical order)
Dean Briski / 6’5” / 290lbs / So / Samoana HS
KT Carter / 6’4” / 275lbs / Redshirt Fr / Desert Edge HS
Ka’ena Decambra / 6’3” / 300lbs / Jr / Saint Louis HS
Luke Felix-Fualalo / 6’8” / 310lbs / Sr / Utah
Ismail Ganley / 6’2” / 280lbs / Fr / Claremont HS
Boogie Henderson / 6’5” / 320lbs / Fr / Junipero Serra HS
Judah Kaio / 6’4” / 305lbs / Jr / Pacific (Ore)
Lautaimi Manuma / 6’3” / 270lbs / Fr / Campbell HS
Micah Mariteragi / 6’4” / 300lbs / Sr / Virginia
Isaac Maugaleoo / 6’8” / 335lbs / Fr / Campbell HS
James Milovale / 6’6” / 330lbs / Jr / Hartnell College
Sergio Muasau / 5’11” / 300lbs / Sr / Mililani HS
Tu’i Muti / 6’1” / 300lbs / Fr / Punahou HS
Kuao Peihopa / 6’3” / 295lbs / Jr / Univ of Washington
Christian Perry / 6’8” / 300lbs / Jr / Riverside City College
Zhen Sotelo / 6’3” / 305lbs / Jr / Kapolei HS
Ethan Spencer / 6’1” / 300lbs / So / Saint Louis HS
Maurice Ta’ala / 5’11” / 325lbs / Sr / Faga’itua HS
Jay Tauala-Harris / 6’2” / 265lbs / Fr / Lakewood HS
3rd Annual Sistahhood Social 📸:Micah Soga
8/10/24 Scrimmage 📸: Gavin Yasunari
A few takeaways from the 2024 Mountain West Media Days
As hot as it was this summer in Las Vegas, most media agreed that the University of Hawai’i football team will have a cold fall and finish ninth in the preseason poll. But don’t let that bring you down as UH has always finished above one or two spots under Head Coach Timmy Chang. As this is year three of the Chang Era, expectations are high as nine returning offensive starters have finally clicked in the Run N Shoot offense along with eight returning defensive starters in a new attacking defense under Defensive Coordinator Dennis Thurman.
Senior Quarterback Brayden Schager and Junior Safety Peter Manuma were selected to represent the Rainbow Warriors and had a whirlwind experience answering questions from many TV/Radio/Newspaper/Social Media people at the Circa Resort and Casino in Downtown Las Vegas. But they also had fun as they were able to play games with the other teams players, chill at the Stadium Swim and a Peter Manuma “Chee Hoo!” heard around the resort from the photo session.
Listening to Schager, Manuma and Head Coach Timmy Chang, all three are harping that the momentum from winning the last three of four games last season has made the team hungry for more wins in 2024. The uplifting offseason workouts has shown that Hawai’i Football is ready to make that leap and finish in the top half of the Mountain West Conference and reach a bowl game. It all comes down to execution come game day.
Recruiting season is heating up
By: Big Island Staffer
While most spring practices across the nation are coming to completion, the April 16th opening of the transfer portal brings recruiting to the forefront of college football. On the first day of the portal more than 200 FBS football players put their names into the ring and many more are expected to follow in the upcoming days. Last year more than 2,100 scholarship FBS football players entered the portal with nearly 1,400 of them finding a home by the close of the portal window.
For the Rainbow Warriors, who concluded their spring practices early at the end of February, have had a couple of entries the past few days. Offensive lineman Freddie Pelling was the first to enter his name into the portal followed by Eddie Osei-Nketia shortly after. Pelling was an intriguing prospect at 6-10 originally from the UK’s NFL Academy, but he dealt with many injuries in his stay and failed to see much playing time. Osei-Nketia was another prospect that had many fans wondering how his world class speed would translate to the football field. He was used at wide receiver and most recently at running back during the spring practices but was unable to crack the 2-deep depth chart.
With the two departures from the team it opens up a few available scholarships to shore a couple of position groups exiting the spring session. Continuing to build depth on both sides of the line is always a priority as games are won in the trenches. Another seasoned offensive tackle to provide depth and increased competition would be a welcomed addition. Edge rushers who can get to the quarterback are always at a premium and big bodies who can stop the run and command double teams are always on the coaches shopping list. Finally, if there are any playmakers at the skill positions that can change the game in a snap it will warrant a scholarship offer.
With this current staff we have seen them leverage their connections as they comb through the hundreds of players who enter the portal daily. Most notable is the Las Vegas connection with Chris Brown and Bishop Gorman. On the other side of that connection is Chad Kapanui who is an assistant coach at Bishop Gorman and a former teammate of Timmy Chang. You may also see familiar names as the staff re-recruits players who they recruited out of high school but chose other destinations who now have entered the portal.
It’s normally a stressful time for many fan bases as the transfer portal gives and takes from the roster. For Warrior Nation though it seems like the core of the Braddahhood is set and happy in paradise while the coaches use the last remaining scholarships to put the final pieces together for the 2024 squad. Go Bows!
2023 UH Offense personnel
By: WAA Staff
Quarterbacks
Let’s start things off with a bang with the most important position on the football field. The Warriors have six quarterbacks on the roster highlighted by returning starter Brayden Schager. He is back after putting on about 15lbs of muscle to help him handle the rigors of a full year. He continues to learn the Run N Shoot(RnS) concepts and has seen improvement in his deep ball placement earning the name “Schager bombs”. Competing for the backup spot is a tightly contended race between Joey Yellen and Jake Farrell. Both of these QBs have been here for at least a year and are familiar with personnel and have had the summer to work on RnS concepts with the skill position players. Our guess is the nod goes to Farrell if Schager goes down but having two experienced QBs waiting in the wings is not a bad situation. Rounding out the QB group is Jonah Chong, a transfer from Nevada who figures to run the scout team with true freshman John-Keawe Sagapolutele. Dalen Morris is an interesting QB who is experienced and has a lot of potential in the ground game coming from Navy. There is rumored to be a special package for him to use his running ability in short yardage and goalline situations.
Jonah Chong, Jr
Jake Farrell, Jr
Dalen Morris, Grad
John-Keawe Sagapolutele, Fr
Brayden Schager, Jr
Joey Yellen, Sr
Running Backs
The running back group is young but is an electric group with all types of skills and sizes. Entering camp Tylan Hines and Nasjzae Bryant were penciled in as starters depending on the situation. Hines playing the primary back and Bryant coming in for short yardage situations and passing downs where more pass protection is needed. Bryant got nicked up in camp and was a spectator in the latest scrimmage. Derek Boyd II, a promising young back who redshirted last year was also lost for the season during camp with a lower body injury. Those injuries have opened the door for Jordan Johnson, Landon Sims and David Cordero to take more reps during camp. Cordero brings physicality to the run game and Johnson is a smooth runner that possesses explosive bursts through the holes. Sims has moved to the group from the tight end position and brings a bit of power with soft hands coming out of the backfield. A surprise addition to the backfield is Solo Vaipulu who has taken reps as the big back reminiscent of Reagan Mauia, Wes Keliikipi and Avion Weaver. He brings obvious help in the pass blocking scheme but he has also shown some quick feet when given the ball. Rounding out the group is local boy Brock Hedani out of Iolani who figures to play a prominent role on the scout team preparing the defense for future opponents.
Nasjzae Bryant, Sr
Derek Boyd II, RsFr
David Cordero, So
Brock Hedani, Jr
Tylan Hines, So
Jordan Johnson, So
Landon Sims, So
Tight Ends / Slots
In the traditional Run n Shoot offense there are an abundance of small quick slots who are able to run away from linebackers and safeties. However, in the red zone when the field compresses is where the Run n Shoot can sometimes struggle with a lack of spacing and big targets. HawaiI’s Head Coach Timmy Chang time in Nevada showed him how valuable the right type of Tight End could be in a spread offense especially in the red zone. The inside receivers are a mix of the old school jitter bugs who are quick in small spaces and bigger traditional tight end types of targets. Koali Nishigaya and Tamatoa Mokiao-Atimalala have emerged as two of the more reliable guys who fit the mold of the smaller slot receivers of the past. Nishigaya, coming from Saint Louis Schools has a ton of experience in the Run n Shoot offense so it’s no surprise he’s finding a lot of success. The bigger slots have been led by Greyson Morgan who is emerging as one of the starters if they go with a big slot. Steven Fiso and Devon Tauaefa have also displayed a lot of potential to exploit matchups with smaller corners and ability to run past backers and safeties. Oakie Salavea, the transfer from Colorado has a ton of raw potential and is learning the ropes of the Run n Shoot and Travion Williams is a former basketball star that possesses tremendous athletic ability that coaches hope translate to the football field.
Carlito Capanang Jr, Sr
Nick Delgadillo, Fr
Steven Fiso, Sr
Kalanikau Kamakawiwo’ole, Sr
Kila Kamakawiwo’ole, Sr
Tamatoa Mokiao-Atimalala, Sr
Greyson Morgan, Jr
Koali Nishigaya, Jr
Chad Owens Jr, RsFr
Oakie Salavea, Fr
Devon Tauaefa, RsFr
Travion Williams, Jr
Outside Receivers
The X and Z positions is loaded with talent that reminds folks of big physical receivers in the mold of Ashley Lelie, Dwight Carter and Jason Rivers. This group of receivers is very young but they have the potential to be electric with the combination of size and speed that they possess. Our projected starters are Steven McBride and Chuuky Hines who have been the most consistent players throughout the camp. McBride brings a lot of experience coming in the transfer portal from Kansas while Hines is one of the young guns who spent most of last year adjusting to Division 1 football. Jonah Panoke is a returning starter who will definitely be in the mix but he has been bit by some nagging injuries during camp. Nick Cenacle and Jalen Walthall are two other players who received playing time as true freshmen last year who are right on the heels of the starters. Pofele Ashlock and Alex Perry are also in their second year in the program and each of them brings an elite skill. Ashlock is one of the fastest players on the team and Perry at 6’5 has shown the ability to go up and win jump balls in the fall session.
Pofele Ashlock, RsFr
Nick Cenacle, So
Chuuky Hines, So
Steven McBride, Sr
Jonah Panoke, Sr
Alex Perry, RsFr
Karsyn Pupunu, Jr
Jalen Walthall, So
Maclane Watkins, Fr
Interior Offensive Line
The interior of the Warriors offensive line has the most returning experience led by team captain and center, Eliki Tanuvasa. Solo Vaipulu has logged many games at guard in his career but redshirted last year as he recovered from physical ailments.You may see Solo all over the field as he’s taken reps at the H-back position along with his usual spot at guard. Seeing Vaipulu in the backfield for an extra push on short yardage or goal line situations should be interesting to say the least. Sergio Muasau, Maurice Taala, Kauka Umimaka and Zhen Sotelo are guys who saw playing time last year when lineman were rotated or guys went down with injuries. That valuable experience they gained makes the interior line one of the deepest position groups on the team. Arasi Mose is back for his senior year and he brings experience as a player who has been in the program from his freshman year. Ethan Spencer who was a coveted center coming out of Kalaepohaku will challenge for the backup role behind Eliki Tanuvasa. A couple of walk-on freshmen in Ali Jarvis, Pat Mamaia and Naasir Tatum-Asiata will serve time on the scout team as they gain experience transitioning to college football.
Ali Jarvis, Fr
Pat Mamaia, Fr
Arasi Mose, Sr
Sergio Muasau, Jr
Zhen Sotelo, So
Ethan Spencer, RsFr
Maurice Taala, Jr
Eliki Tanuvasa, Sr
Naasir Tatum-Asiata, Fr
Kauka Umiamaka, Sr
Solo Vaipulu, Sr
Offensive Tackles
The two tackle positions are the most important to keeping Brayden Schager healthy and giving him enough time to throw this offense into overdrive. Josh Atkins, Ka’ena Decambra, Luke Felix-Fualalo and Micah Mariteragi were in a battle for the two positions. Mariteragi had some lingering injuries during camp which limited his availability and it looks like Atkins and Decambra will be given the majority of reps with the first team. Felix-Fualalo will no doubt get a lot of reps in games to keep him ready. Fred Pelling has also dealt with some injuries but it looks like he’s still learning the game of football and needs some time to adjust. James Milovale is an imposing human being at 6’6 300lb but he also plans to redshirt if everyone stays healthy. Kaleb Jackson-Carter is the long freshman in the group but he may have the biggest upside and reminds some folks of Ilm Manning. He possesses great athleticism but like most freshmen will spend time with Strength and Conditioning Coach Kody Cooke in the Iron church to add some muscle to his frame.
Josh Atkins, So
Ka’ena Decambra, So
Luke Felix-Fualalo, Sr
Kaleb Jackson-Carter, Fr
Micah Mariteragi, Jr
James Milovale, Jr
Fred Pelling, So
First Day of Fall Camp for UH Football
QB1 Brayden Schager looking to bring this Run N Shoot offense together before the season starts.
Former UH assistant coach Dan Morrison watches the QB group as they do their individual drills. Morrison has been helping all the UH quarterbacks with their technique and bringing his knowledge of the Run N Shoot offense to them.
Head Coach Timmy Chang on the field watching his team during drills.
Defensive backs #0 Cam Stone , #7 Meki Pei and , #9 CJ Williams look to have a breakout season for the Rainbow Warriors in 2023.
Defense(Green) was much more ahead of the Offense(White) on day one with several coverage sacks(non contact), pass breakups and an interception during scrimmages.
During drills the Offense looked good. Receivers were catching the ball and the quarterbacks timed their throws well. When it came to 7 on 7’s or full scrimmage there were many dropped balls and the offensive line couldn‘t give enough time for Schager to throw the long ball.
The offense will keep getting reps in practice and should get better. At least the receivers ran their routes fairly well. When RB Tylan Hines got his carries during scrimmage after the whistles blew he still finished the play and ran 30 yards to the end zone every time.
Senior captain LB Logan Taylor leads a prayer to conclude practice.
UH predicted to finish 10th by MW Media
By WAA Staff
DAY 1
Las Vegas - As Day one comes to a close for the 2023 Mountain West Media Days at the Circa Resort and Casino, Hawai’i was picked to finish 10th by the media.
Boise State was the decided favorite with 28 first place votes with Air Force second which would make them meet in the Mountain West Championship Game. Fresno State was picked third but had the second most first place votes with five. San Diego State picked fourth also had a first place vote as well as UNLV which is surprising since they were predicted to finish ninth just above Hawai’i.
Also for the Preseason Mountain West All Conference selections the lone Warrior on the list was cornerback Cam Stone.
WAA predicts a five win season for UH in 2023
By WAA Staff
Improvement on the field and in the win column is all you can ask for as Head Coach Timmy Chang is building the winning culture back to Hawai’i. It was only four years ago that the Warriors were the Mountain West West Division Champs and playing in the Championship game.
This year’s schedule on paper seems to be easier than 2024 or 2025’s schedule so if UH wants to get seven wins and a bowl berth this is their chance.
Warrior All Access predicts a five win 2024 season but hopes if the team comes together before conference play they can get to seven wins.
Week 0: At Vanderbilt
We aren’t sure how far along the offense will be come August 26th but if it starts clicking right away it could be a shootout.
Prediction: Vandy 31 UH 21 (0-1,0-0)
Week 1: Stanford
The season opener will hopefully be a sellout at Ching Complex now upgraded to 15,300 capacity. For a bottom Power 5 team with a new head coach it’s hard to predict how they will come out in their first game but with UH already playing one it could benefit them.
Prediction: Stanford 28 UH 24 (0-2,0-0)
Week 2: Albany
Traveling 4,951 miles to play any football game is tough especially for an FCS team. We could see an abundance of points on the scoreboard in this one.
Prediction: UH 56 UAlbany 14 (1-2,0-0)
Week 3: At Oregon
In an intimidating environment at Autzen Stadium will create some trouble for the Warriors as well as a Top 25 team they’ll be facing. This one we hope to keep it close and come out fairly healthy.
Prediction: Oregon 52 UH 17 (1-3,0-0)
Week 4: New Mexico State
Gone are the days of thinking well it’s NMSU. Head Coach Jerry Kill is doing a great job in turning around the program. After an embarrassing loss in Las Cruces last year, playing the Aggies at home might have a different outcome.
Prediction: UH 45 NMSU 35 (2-3,0-0)
Week 5: At UNLV
Playing for the Pineapple Trophy(Ninth Island Showdown) has benefited the home team as of late. Unfortunately this year the game is at Vegas. The hope is for Lady Luck to change the narrative and have Hawai’i win at Allegiant Stadium and UH fans win in the casinos.
Prediction: UNLV 35 UH 31 (2-4,0-1)
Week 6:BYE
No competition. Easy win.
Week 7: San Diego State
The Aztecs are on a three game winning streak over Hawai’i but the last two contest seemed winnable. This year SDSU offense should improve but so does UH’s defense so that might make another close game.
Prediction: SDSU 27 UH 24 OT (2-5,0-2)
Week 8: At New Mexico
Being that it’s a road game for UH will not make any prediction solid but since it’s New Mexico who has been struggling more than Hawai’i, the Warriors should come out on top.
Prediction: UH 38 New Mexico 28(3-5,1-2)
Week 9: San Jose State
Homecoming for UH? Homecoming for Chevan Cordeiro? Either way this will be the last time you will see him play college football in Hawai’i. With a depleted Offensive line for the Spartans look for Cordeiro to run for his life again.
Prediction: SJSU 42 UH 35 (3-6,1-3)
Week 10: At Nevada
It was fitting that Timmy Chang got his first MW win over his previous coaching stint in Honolulu last year. No doubt Nevada has loaded from the transfer portal since then but look for another convincing win on the road.
Prediction: UH 38 Nevada 21 (4-6,2-3)
Week 11: Air Force
Since there are no more Mountain/West divisions playing one of the two predicted top teams in the league will be tough even at home. The Falcons will continue to be strong on the ground but look for Air Force to use the Air in their name in this one.
Prediction: Air Force 42 UH 28(4-7,2-4)
Week 12: At Wyoming
There’s nothing like playing at 7,220 feet. There’s also nothing like back to back wins at Laramie after Hawai’i carved up the Cowboys in 2021. This will be another tough road game after what will be already a long season health wise.
Prediction: Wyoming 31 UH 21(4-8,2-5)
Week 13: Colorado State
Making a prediction in July for a game on Thanksgiving weekend seems ludicrous. It will mark the second time HC Chang faces his former boss CSU HC Jay Norvell. While it was a low scoring loss last season for the Warriors on the road, look for a high scoring win to end the season on a high note.
Prediction: UH 42 CSU 31 (5-8,3-5)
Ask the AD with Craig Angelos
