Jason Rivers

Dave Reardon writes a profile of receiver Jason Rivers, who had a solid 2004 freshman year, couldn't play in 2005 for academic and moped reasons, and is now one of the great receivers in the Warriors' offense once again.

Grice-Mullins said the threat of Rivers catching a deep ball helps the other receivers. So does his willingness to share -- the football, as well as his knowledge.

"He definitely helps stretch the field and he brings a physical game. He and (slotback) Ross (Dickerson) will run right through you," Grice-Mullins said. "The year with him sitting out I think really helped him. He's a totally different guy now. He's more of a team guy. He understands it's not about how many balls you catch or yards you get. He's taken a leadership role."

Rivers was a big part of UH's late-season rallies in 2003 and 2004 that led to winning records and Hawaii Bowl appearances. He said this season is more exciting because of the way the Warriors have played on the road (they finished 3-2 away from home, and clinched a winning record and Hawaii Bowl bid with a 63-10 win at Utah State last Saturday).

"This is better than before because it says a lot about our team, going on the road and winning consistently, putting up 60 points," Rivers said. "That says a lot about us playing to our potential."

I remember getting mad that he fell off his moped because he was ready for a breakout season, but that incident is hardly ever mentioned any more and I'm beginning to think that maybe it didn't happen, or it wasn't as severe as it sounded. In any case, glad he's healthy, both physically and academically. I make a bold prediction that he'll have 100 yards receiving with 2 touchdowns in tomorrow's game!

Reardon also has news that Leonard Peters may not be able to play this week's game.

Miano and defensive coordinator Jerry Glanville said they weren't sure if free safety Leonard Peters' shaky knee would be strong enough to allow him to play tomorrow.

"He worries me. You can't tell him that he should sit out this game, or rest a couple weeks because he's a warrior," Miano said. "It doesn't matter what the doctors say, it doesn't matter what we say. He won't come off the field."

If Peters doesn't play, Mike Malala will.

Rest it Leonard, rest it! I think it would be great to have Michael Malala play and maybe show off more of his kung fu moves. You know, like this one: