Profiles in Awesome

Two great profiles of two unique and inspiring UH football players. Dave Reardon profiles Ikaika Alama-Francis, who gets high praise from the coaches:

"Jerry (defensive coordinator Glanville) and I both said last year we didn't have anyone as good as him in the NFL," Jones said. "I think he's a first-day draft pick."

Defensive line coach Jeff Reinebold said he'd never seen another end with "the combination of speed, size, flexibility and tenacity" in 14 seasons of college and pro coaching.

"It's even more incredible when you break it down by the number of snaps he played going into last season -- less than 50 snaps," Reinebold said. "That is amazing that a kid with that little experience could accelerate to being mentioned among the best at his position.

Stephen Tsai has a Sunday interview with Leonard Peters, who also gets high praise from the coaches:

"Believe me," UH assistant strength coach Mel deLaura said, "Leonard Peters is an unbelievably awesome guy."

Rich Miano, who coaches the UH defensive backs, said: "I could coach another 50 years and never have another player like him both on and off the field."

Last year, teammates voted Peters as defensive team captain.

Defensive coordinator Jerry Glanville, who refers to players by their position and jersey number, said, proudly: "I know his name. 'Leonard Peters' is the only Samoan name I know."

Oh Jerry.

Anyway, if both Leonard and Ikaika have great years, without major injury, that would mean a great year for the UH defense. I'm hoping it'll be an awesome year for these two awesome players. Go Warriors!