Chawan's Cut, Monico, Gomes, Etc.

Here's last night's Chawan's Cut. Got some WAC news, and interviews with Corey Paredes, Manti Te'o and Billy Ray Stutzmann.



Stephen Tsai profiles running back and special teams ace Jordan Monico.

Monico expected his role this season to be defined by helping the starters prepare for game nights. He'd volunteer to jump in with the scout team during kickoff periods, and impressed the coaches enough to move him over to the kickoff team for UH's opener against USC.

"We were having trouble blocking him on our kickoff return," UH special teams coordinator Chris Tormey said. "He understands football, fits in the right place, has really good size (6-foot-0 and 235 pounds), and he can run. He's a very good tackler. He wraps up and brings his feet on his tackles, runs through contact."

Tsai has news and notes about Lametrius Davis reclaiming his starting left cornerback spot, Rodney Bradley being listed as questionable for the LaTech game, Kamalu Umu moving back to left defensive end, and Jordan Gomes giving up an academic scholarship in engineering in order to continue playing football.

And LaTechSports.com has some game notes.

The Bulldogs depart Ruston Thursday morning after a 6:45 a.m. practice at Joe Aillet Stadium and will arrive in Honolulu at 4:45 p.m. HT/9:45 p.m. CT. After a short practice on Friday at Aloha Stadium, the team will visit Pearl Harbor and the Punch Bowl. Following Saturday's game at Hawai'i, the team will depart Honolulu, stop in Los Angeles for a two-hour layover beginning at 7:35 a.m. PT/9:35 a.m. CT and will finally arrive back in Ruston around 6:30 p.m. CT.

WitP: Ikaika, Mouton, Owens, Sol, Pisa

Miami coach Tony Sparano says the Ikaika Alama-Francis is close to being back in playing shape.

Linebacker Ikaika Alama-Francis will practice today and Sparano said he is "close" to being back to his full weight and being able to play in a game.

Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean writes that Ryan Mouton should be seeing more playing time due to a teammate's injury.

When Jason McCourty suffered a fractured forearm on Sunday, the Titans knew they would be without their starting cornerback for several weeks.

The injury puts rookie Alterraun Verner on the spot. It also moves second-year cornerback Ryan Mouton up in the pecking order. He will be on the field for plenty of snaps this Sunday when the Titans play host to the Broncos.

Chad Owens earned CFL special teams player-of-the-month honors, and Solomon Elimimian was runner-up for defensive player-of-the-month.

Argos kick returner Chad Owens earned the nod as special teams player of the month after tallying 639 kick return yards for an average of 159.8 yards per game and one punt return touchdown. He had 287 yards on kickoff returns, 241 on punts, and 111 on missed field goals.

Pisa Tinoisamoa talks about Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers secretly treating him and his Bears teammates to dinner.

"So I see the [restaurant] guy helping out Aaron Rodgers [to get a table], and I'm like 'This can't be happening.'

"So I walk over, interrupt, and say 'You're not going to sit a Packer down before you sit a Bear down, are you?' The guy was like, of course not, what do you mean...oh, you're Bears player, OK."

Tinoisamoa, Clark and Roach proceeded to exchange pleasantries with Rodgers, before the two parties went their separate ways. The encounter with the rival quarterback faded into the backdrop, until it came time to settle up the tab.

Stay Classy, LaTech Video Department

At the end of their Southern Mississippi highlight video, the Louisiana Tech video department uses a clip of Greg Alexander sustaining the knee injury that ended his season and possibly his career with the words "Now's Your Chance... Beat Hawaii" plastered over it. That's pretty cold.



Via LaTechBBB.com and SportsHawaii.com.

UH vs LaTech Game Previews, Billy Ray Stutzmann

HawaiiAthletics.com has game notes and info for this weekend's UH-LaTech game.

The Sports Network has a game preview.

And Stephen Tsai profiles Billy Ray Stutzmann.

For now, Stutzmann is atop the depth chart at left wideout as the primary injury replacement for Rodney Bradley. Bradley, who is recovering from a strained left hamstring, did not practice yesterday, but is hopeful of being able to play in Saturday's game against Louisiana Tech. He is listed as "questionable."

Stutzmann, who usually plays right wideout, yesterday made an easy adjustment to the left side.

"It was fine," Stutzmann said. "I played everywhere in high school. It was getting the footwork down. Once I did that, basically, it was like second nature."

UPDATE: Forgot to include last night's Chawan's Cut, which includes interviews with Stutzmann.

Na Koa Lunch Report (9/28/10)

Na Koa has this week's lunch report up on their site. This week's featured speaker was Mouse Davis. Here's an excerpt about the defense:

Corey Paredes is second in country in tackles. He is a leader and the most consistent linebacker. He has good quickness and a nose for the ball. Davis showed several plays where Paredes made the tackle. The first play showed Paredes stepping into a hole very quickly, beating the blocker and making a tackle for a loss. The second play showed his quickness to the sideline as he made the tackle for a very short gain on a sweep.

Davis showed defensive back Lewis Walker timing his blitz well and causing the quarterback to fumble. On Jeremy Bryant’s interception, Davis showed that he made a very good break on the pass to make the interception.

WitP: Ikaika Alama-Francis Update, Wayne Hunter, Francis Maka

Omar Kelly of the Sun-Sentinel provides an update on the status of Ikaika Alama-Francis.

Well… turns out the virus Alama-Francis caught the night before the season-opener against Buffalo didn’t just sap him of his energy, and prevent him from retain any food or liquids.

Could Ike Alama-Francis help the Dolphins run support?

But Alama-Francis said he also couldn’t swallow “anything” for about a week, and as a result he lost 15-20 pounds he’s presently struggling to put back onto his 285 pound frame.

Coincidentally, this former defensive end shed 20 pounds during the offseason to make the transition to strong side linebacker. These days he’s force feeding himself everything possible to put the weight back on to crack the gameday roster.

“All the stuff that was off limits for a while I can eat now,” Alama-Francis said, referring to his strict diet. “It’s a free for all.”

Meanwhile, it looks like Wayne Hunter will be out for a second straight week with a massive shin bruise.

It doesn’t appear that Wayne Hunter will be ready for the Bills. Ryan said that Hunter’s swollen shin “doesn’t seem to be getting any better.”

And Francis Maka has signed with the Spokane Shock of the AFL.

DL Maka, 6-2 255, is a rookie to the AFL, but he is no stranger to football. Last season, Maka played for an indoor football league as a member of the Arkansas Diamonds where he recorded 6.5 sacks with 23.5 tackles in only nine games. Before his time with the Diamonds, Maka finished his collegiate career at the University of Hawaii where he recorded 2.5 sacks in two seasons.

Coach Mack Show, Dustin Blount, LaTech on 4th QB, Beer Fest

Hawaii News Now has this week's Coach Mack Show available for viewing up on their website.

Here's last night's Chawan's Cut of local news coverage:



HawaiiAthletics.com has quotes from Greg McMackin's weekly press conference.

Stephen Tsai profiles receiver Dustin Blount, who should be getting more playing time in the upcoming weeks.

Blount has endured a series of obstacles in Manoa. He was held out of the first three games of 2008 while waiting for his junior college transcripts to be processed. By the time he was cleared, "I decided to redshirt," he said.

In the summer of 2009, he went back to Los Angeles to take care of a family matter. Because he did not have access to a computer, he had to take an "incomplete" for an online class. When he finished the work, the fall semester had started. He then suffered a partially torn hamstring. He played four games last year. "It was a bad year," he said.

But he refused to be discouraged. "The love of the game keeps me going," Blount said, "and my father."

Ferd Lewis has some news and notes about UH students receiving free tickets to the games, Brett Leonard getting cleared to play this week, Rodney Bradley continuing to recover from his hamstring injury, and some unfortunate news for running back Hogan Rosehill:

Running back Hogan Rosehill will miss the rest of the season after suffering a noncontact knee injury against Charleston Southern.

That ends plans for running back Jordan Monico to move to linebacker. Monico leads the UH kickoff team with 10 tackles.

Ferd Lewis highlights the two top tacklers in the nation, both from Hawaii.

The two most prolific tacklers atop the statistics this season, the NCAA tells us, are linebackers, and both from here: Notre Dame's Manti Te'o (Punahou) and the University of Hawaii's Corey Paredes (Castle).

They average 13.50 and 13.25 tackles per game, respectively.

Theirs is an impressive distinction, though hardly an anomaly. "What it means," suggests WAC-TV analyst and former head coach Dick Tomey, "is that Hawaii produces some very good linebackers."

Louisiana Tech is having quarterback issues, with Tarik Hakmi becoming the 4th QB to be named a starter this season.

Hakmi becomes the fourth different quarterback to be dubbed a "starter" this season.

"I don't know if anybody has had a similar situation," Dykes said of his dizzying quarterback rotation. "This may be unique to the history of football."

Unique to the history of football??? Well it wasn't so long ago...

And Na Koa reminds us that the Hawaii Bowl Beer Fest is this Thursday, September 30th.

Don’t forget the Hawai’i Bowl Beer Fest is this Thursday at Murphy’s Bar & Grill starting at 6:00 p.m.

One third of this year’s proceeds will benefit Na Koa, so come out and support the Warriors and the Hawai’i Bowl Foundation.

CSU Review, Rodney Bradley, LaTech

Dave Reardon reviews five big plays from UH's 66-7 victory over Charleston Southern in this week's Warrior Replay.

Stephen Tsai has an update on Rodney Bradley's hamstring injury.

"I think I'll be able to go," said Bradley, who suffered what he termed a "strained" left hamstring while running a deep route in the second quarter of a 66-7 victory over Charleston Southern.

Bradley, who limped off the field, said he did not initially believe the injury was a concern. But he said his left hamstring was "sore" yesterday morning.

He said he received ice treatment and electrical-stimulation therapy yesterday afternoon.

"I'll be getting therapy the rest of the week," he said.

He said he received several ice packs that he will use at night. He said a determination on his playing status will be made Wednesday or Thursday.

The Post and Courier has some quotes from Charleston Southern coach Jay Mills.

"Obviously we played a very good football team, a more balanced football team in all three phases of the game," CSU head coach Jay Mills said. "We failed to take advantage of some opportunities early in the game that would have changed the tempo from the outset. Unfortunately, we made some early mistakes that allowed Hawaii to set the tempo and we scrambled to catch up all game long. I thought our players gave a good effort. We played hard, but we just had too many mistakes."

HereComeTheDawgs.com has UH-Louisiana Tech news and notes from the Sports Xchange.

STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL LOOKING GOOD: The Warriors' defense stepped up and turned in an outstanding performance against Charleston Southern, but whether the group can carry that momentum into WAC play remains to be seen. Hawaii held Charleston Southern to 227 yards and grabbed four turnovers.

And Ferd Lewis looks at how the WAC might shape up with Hawaii and LaTech in it.

Video: Charleston Southern Highlights, Interviews

Chawan Cut has a compilation of the local news coverage of the UH-CSU game from today and last night.





Chawan has also updated his spreadsheet of opponent schedules and records.

WitP: NFL Week 3, CFL News

Davone Bess had 6 catches for 86 yards and returned 1 punt for 18 yards, but the Dolphins lost to the Jets 31-23. Ikaika Alama-Francis and Wayne Hunter were inactive for the game.

Travis LaBoy had 3 tackles and Isaac Sopoaga had 1 tackle in the 49ers loss to the Chiefs.

Mat McBriar had 2 punts for a 47.5 yard average, with a long of 59, in the Cowboys victory over the Texans.

Over in the CFL, Ryan Grice-Mullen made his debut with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, returning 3 kicks for 52 yards and 3 punts for 20 yards in a victory over Hamilton.

Solomon Elimimian led the BC Lions with 10 tackles and a sack in a victory over Calgary. Adam Leonard also contributed 3 tackles.

Chad Owens caught 5 passes for 62 yards, returned 4 punts for 29 yards and 1 kick for 15 yards as the Toronto Argonauts lost to Edmonton.

And earlier in the week, CFL.ca had a video interview with Owens.

UH Stats After Week 4

Stats don't mean a thing and can be misleading, but stats are also fun so here's how UH ranks after four weeks.

Hawaii has the #1 passing offense in the nation with 405.5 ypg. UH is also #20 in total offense with 465.25 ypg and #26 in scoring offense with 36.5 points per game.

On the flipside, UH is #80 in total defense with 377.75 yards allowed per game and #88 in scoring defense with 28.75 points allowed per game.

Bryant Moniz is #2 in passing yards per game with 334.25 ypg, #4 in total offense with 343 ypg, #16 in passing efficiency with a 165.43 rating.

Kealoha Pilares is #5 in receiving yards per game with 116.25 ypg and #17 in scoring with 10.5 points per game.

Greg Salas is #9 in receptions per game with 7.75 catches per game.

Corey Paredes is #2 in the nation in tackles with 13.25 tackles per game.

A lot more stats can be found on NCAA.com.

UH vs Charleston Southern Wrap-Ups, Video

Here are this morning's wrap-ups of UH's 66-7 victory over Charleston Southern.

Smothered, by Stephen Tsai

"We always knew we had an explosive offense," Green said. "We finally put four quarters together. We played a full game. It gave us a little confidence. Now we know we have to bring it every time."

The Warriors' defense also was able to quell — for one night — concerns about its ability to slow the rush.

The Warriors, using run blitzes, held the Buccaneers to 52 yards on 41 carries.

With nowhere to run, and their deficit growing, the Buccaneers were forced to pass into the Warriors' active zone defense. Cornerback Jeramy Bryant made the Warriors' first interception of the season, in the first quarter, and linebacker Po'okela Ahmad added one in the fourth quarter."

Moniz was money from the start, by Jason Kaneshiro

It was also the first time UH broke the 60-point mark since a 66-10 win over the Buccaneers in 2007 as the Warriors offense worked out some kinks before entering Western Athletic Conference play this week against Louisiana Tech.

"It was something we talked about all week to get a big win and sharpen up the things we haven't done so good as far as the red zone and the third quarter," Moniz said after passing for a career-high 395 yards.

Hawaii's defense comes out swinging, by Brian McInnis

"We've had great practices, all the way back to spring. All the way back to fall camp," said Aranda, who pointed to himself for defensive letdowns in the first three games. "We've always created turnovers, always gotten sacks, always tackled well. That hasn't shown up in the games, until today. So my hope is, this is the start of how we play."

Mills favors UH '10 over '07 team, by Billy Hull

"I felt like (Hawaii) is a team that I think is more sound in all three areas of the game than maybe the team we played in 2007," Mills said. "Of course, they all had all the accolades with Colt Brennan and so forth, but I've been impressed with the discipline ... and the toughness they have shown (this year)."

No trap for UH to fear in this slap game, by Dave Reardon

Sure, it wasn't much of a game ... it was more like a scrimmage. And that's what UH needed headed into conference play next week.

That just-completed two-week "business trip," well, the Warriors came back from it with what many expected: a win at Army and a loss at Colorado. But because it was in that order — and because UH blew a lead and narrowly escaped at West Point and didn't recover from doing the same at Boulder — there was a great sense of missed opportunity.

There was talk of soft defense and an offense that couldn't score from close range, and a continual curse of being outscored in the third quarter. After last night's domination, that could be forgotten for a while.

Threat to Rolovich's record brought blowout some drama, by Ferd Lewis

Rolovich has repeatedly challenged his players with the record's existence right there by his desk — and on page 91 of UH's official media guide and record book — telling them how it will not fall. To them, especially. And how, by the power vested in him as offensive maestro, he will get the hook out before they can break it.

"We tell him if we get close, he'd better leave us in," said Shane Austin. "But he tells us, 'Nah, I'll take you out before that.' "

So when Moniz's TD totals began to mount with three in the first quarter and two more in the first 7 minutes of the second quarter, eyes began to focus on Rolovich, "Somebody — Greg Salas, I think — started yelling out the numbers," Rolovich said.

Warrior Scorebook, from the Star-Advertiser has stats, news and notes.

Junior center Matagisila Lefiti played for the first time this season when he got in on UH's third drive in the first quarter.

Lefiti, who was slated to start before suffering a foot injury over the summer, had to sit out the first three games of the season as Bronson Tiwanak took over.

"It just felt like ... it was an unexplainable feeling to play football again," Lefiti said. "The foot was great. Just gotta get in condition and work from there."

And here's the post-game wrap-up from CSUsports.com.

Charleston Southern had plenty to boast about despite a 66-7 loss on the road at the University of Hawaii. The Bucs played in front of 27,144 people at Aloha Stadium in a game that started near midnight in Charleston.
Offensively for Charleston Southern (2-2), DeMarcus Moon reached 1,000 rushing yards for his career and A.J. Toscano moved into second all time with more than 3,100 passing yards, while Charles James led the defense, tying the school record with two interceptions.

Hawaii 66, Charleston Southern 7

It was like a flashback to 2007. Offense looked really smooth and the defense was swarming to the ball and making all kinds of plays. Let's hope UH just made it look easy, rather than it just being too easy. Louisiana Tech next week!

ESPN.com has the AP game summary along with a box score and some game photos.

Bryant Moniz threw for 395 yards and six touchdowns -- tying a school record for most touchdown passes in a half -- as Hawaii trounced Charleston Southern 66-7 Saturday night.

Greg Salas had seven catches for 131 yards and two touchdowns.

Here's the HawaiiAthletics.com game summary. It should have links to the official box score as well as post-game notes and quotes later on.

Here's the game summary from The Star Advertiser.

Ways to Follow the UH vs Charleston Southern Game

Being There:

Buy tickets through HawaiiAthletics.com, or at Aloha Stadium. Game starts at 5:30 pm.

HawaiiAthletics.com has info on fan promotions and ticket discounts.

The Aloha Stadium website has directions, parking, shuttle bus and other info.

More bus transportation info on UHFootballExpress.com


Television:

In Hawaii, via Oceanic PPV.

UPDATE: Outside of Hawaii, it looks like it might be on ESPN Gameplan. Check with your local cable/satellite provider.


Streaming Video:

Oceanic Streaming Video. They'll start taking orders one hour before the game. The cost is $12.56.

It also may be available on ESPN3.com for free (if your ISP supports it) but it's not currently listed on their schedule.


Theaters:

On Oahu: at Consolidated's Ko'olau Theatre
On Maui: at Consolidated's Kaahumanu Theatre


Radio:

On Oahu, ESPN 1420 AM. Neighbor islands can listen live on KNUI on Maui, KHLO in Hilo, and KKON in Kona.


Streaming Audio:

Via ESPN1420AM.com


Live Stats:

SideArmStats.com, via HawaiiAthletics.com

ESPN Scoreboard


Blogs/Message Boards:

The Warrior Beat
SportsHawaii.com
WarriorSportsNetwork.com

....

References -- HawaiiAthletics.com

Star-Advertiser

Note: Please comment with any corrections, additions, changes, etc. Thanks!

Game Day: UH vs Charleston Southern

Stephen Tsai has a game day preview breaking down the offense, defense and specialists for both UH and CSU. Here's an excerpt about the UH defense:

It is hoped Falemalu's persistence - "motor," in football parlance - will make him an effective weak-side pass rusher. The Warriors need the boost; they have on sack this season. Defensive coordinator Dave Aranda has emphasized not blitzing more, but blitzing better. Aaron Brown, Richard Torres and Jeramy Bryant are capable zone-dog blitzers. A better pass rush should help the secondary, which has zero interceptions this season.

Here's last night's Chawan's Cut, which includes game previews from KITV, KGMB and KHON.



The Star-Advertiser has some info for those going to the game.

Tsai writes about the studying that the players do before the game.

Miano, whose Warriors play Charleston Southern today, said there might be a correlation between good play and good study habits.

"To be honest, the guys who are starting usually are the guys who have the best grades," Miano said. "This was a few years back, but the (NFL) teams with the most degrees were the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts. Those were the teams that were the most successful at the time. When you are focused, when you are doing the details of your assignments -- and anticipating nuances and checks -- you're probably going to be successful. Smart teams win football games."

David Shelton of The Post and Courier talks to CSU coach Jay Mills about tonight's matchup.

"Hawaii has always been recognized for being able to throw the football and for offensive excellence," Mills said. "We have tremendous respect for their offense, but we really feel we are facing a more complete team this time around. They are still very productive offensively, but they are very good defensively and very sound on special teams. They play very hard. They're not a finesse team by any means."

Joe Ferrer of Ka Leo previews the game, and highlights Kamalu Umu's previous stint with CSU.

Jillian Burmeister of Ka Leo profiles Vaughn Meatoga.

"My mom always said to never be satisfied. Whenever I had a good game she always told me you could have worked harder," Meatoga said. "It brings back the point that there is always room for improvement."
He honors his mom at every game.
"Every time I make a play I point up to the sky for my mom," he said.

And Ferd Lewis has another big wet kiss for former athletic director Herman Frazier.

CSU's deal, valued at upwards of $250,000, is, in some ways, as good as nationally ranked Wisconsin got in 2005 and was originally contracted to get last year. It is on a par with what Navy received last year with a bigger traveling party.

Not only is UH contracted to provide the buses to take the Buccaneers to and from the airport, practices and games, but, according to the contract, "Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay and possible luau," too.

You may recall that Frazier had lollygagged on putting the 2007 football schedule together and then suffered some reversals. At one point he was looking at three openings on a 13-game schedule with less than seven months before the kickoff of Colt Brennan's much-anticipated senior season.

The Buccaneers called with an interest and were willing to take him off the hook for one of those games -- but at a price.

Herman Frazier -- the gift that keeps on giving.

Ahmad, Brown, Jay Mills, Pilares, Umu

Jason Kaneshiro writes about the increased workload for linebackers Po'okela Ahmad and Aaron Brown.

Ahmad and Brown also had to wait for their chances to make an impact on defense. While Ahmad waited his turn behind starters such as Adam Leonard and R.J. Kiesel-Kauhane, Brown's patience was tested by a hamstring injury that led to a redshirt year last season and an ankle injury that kept him out of fall camp.

Brown recovered to make his first career start last week and finished with eight tackles, including one for loss, against Colorado.

"It hurt him not being around for (camp) so there's still some learning and some reps he needs to get under his belt and we're doing that as we go," Aranda said.

"There's certain guys when you blitz them, things happen. (Brown's) one of those guys, we want to put him where the action is. Po'okela has shown he can be one of those guys."

And Stephen Tsai talks to Charleston Southern coach Jay Mills.

And here's last night's Chawan's Cut, with KITV profiling Kealoha Pilares and KGMB profiling Kamalu Umu:

CSU Notes, Greg Salas, Siasau Matagiese, Chawan's Cuts

CSU Sports has released some game notes and info.

Stephen Tsai writes about Greg Salas helping the other receivers get open.

Despite fewer pass-catching opportunities, Salas is creating problems for defenses. He often draws extra coverages, opening the way for right slotback Kealoha Pilares, who is having a breakout start, and wideouts Rodney Bradley and Royce Pollard.

Salas also has become a punishing blocker. He served a pancake block on a Pollard reception.

Tsai has news and notes about the Warriors practicing in the rain and defensive tackle Siasau Matagiese joining the team.

The Waimea High graduate played for Portland State last year, and began pondering a transfer after the Vikings' coaching staff was fired in December. He participated in spring training before requesting -- and receiving -- a release from his football scholarship.

At Portland State, he played defensive end in the 3-4 scheme. In UH's base 4-3 alignment, he is a defensive tackle.

Matagiese said he is 6-foot-2 and 280 pounds.

He has to sit out this season in accordance with NCAA transfer rules. After that, he will have three seasons of eligibility remaining.

The Sheraton Hawaii Bowl has come out with an interesting pledge that benefits UH.

Wherever the shifting college landscape takes the University of Hawaii football team, "We have your back," the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl pledged yesterday.

That means as long as the Warriors are bowl eligible -- whether they're in the Western Athletic Conference, another league or an independent -- they will be assured of a place in their backyard bowl through at least 2013, under a three-year extension announced by the title sponsor and ESPN Regional Television, the game's owner-operator.

Perhaps they know something, hmmmmm?!?!?!

Either way, that's nice of them.

Ferd Lewis writes about the UH athletic department's finances.

Football turned a $3.89 million profit, but if the University of Hawaii's sports teams were individual companies, women's volleyball would have been the school's best per-dollar moneymaker in the last fiscal year.

For each dollar spent, the Rainbow Wahine returned $2.02 in gross revenue to the athletic department, according to figures made available by the school.

Football brought in $1.50 gross revenue for each dollar spent and men's volleyball $1.35.

David Kawada of the Hawaii Sports Examiner has an interview with former UH safety/QB Blane Gaison.

And Chawan Cut is back from his globe-trotting trip, and that means the return of Chawan's Cuts!!!

Na Koa Lunch Report (9/20/10)

Na Koa has posted this week's Lunch Report up on the NaKoa.org website. Defensive coordinator Dave Aranda was the featured speaker. Here's an excerpt:

The defensive front didn’t play well while the secondary did. This is the opposite of the Army game where the front played better than the secondary.

Coach Aranda said the poor tackling, yards after contact and alignment and assignment issues are happening when we are “not playing on our terms”. When things are going well, the defense plays well. But when things are not going well such as in a sudden change situation, we don’t play well. We don’t have the attitude that is needed to make a stand. The coaches need to develop the confidence in the defense that they can make a stand. They will work on developing that attitude by challenging the players with competition in practice.

Defense, Paipai, Injuries, CSU

Stephen Tsai writes about some changes to how the UH defense practices as well as Paipai Falemalu's move back to full-time defensive end.

After bulking up to 260 pounds early this summer, Falemalu was told he would be used in the hybrid linebacker/end position. He then was forced to lose weight.

"Honestly, I can gain and lose weight as I choose," Falemalu said. "If I want to gain weight, I eat more than I usually do and work out more. To lose weight, I run more instead of lifting more."

When Aaron Brown missed most of the preseason because of a sprained right ankle, Ahmad received the bulk of Brown's duties in nickel packages. After Brown recovered, it was decided to keep Ahmad in the rotation. That meant Falemalu was not needed at linebacker.

"We felt (Falemalu) could be best served getting all of his reps in one spot," Aranda said of the decision to play Falemalu full-time at right end. "He doesn't have to learn two or three different positions. He can learn one position -- where he can play fast."

Tsai writes that Matagisila Lefiti returned to practice and should be able to play against Charleston Southern, but probably won't start. He also notes that Brett Leonard is on track to receive medical clearance next week, Spencer Smith hopes to be back in five weeks, and Malosi Te'o will join the Warriors in January.

Dave Reardon writes about the difficulties playing at altitude.

A guy who says he's a physician e-mailed me insisting oxygen debt is all in the head at a mile above sea level. When I asked, he provided references and everything.

Ashley Lelie, who played four seasons with the Denver Broncos concurs -- yes, it is in the head ... and in the lungs, and in the sinuses, and in the legs.

And Jeff Hartsell of The Post and Courier writes about Charleston Southern's trip to Hawaii.

More than just a game awaits Charleston Southern's football team this week as the Buccaneers make their second trip to Hawaii in four years.

"It's not just about the game, but a cultural and educational trip as well," CSU coach Jay Mills said Tuesday. "We're going to Pearl Harbor, we'll have a luau and we will take the guys snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean before we head back."

Mills also hopes the Bucs are better equipped to handle the football part of the itinerary. On CSU's last trip to the islands, the Warriors handed the Bucs a 66-10 whipping in 2007.

WitP: Chad Owens, Travis LaBoy, Isaac Sopoaga

Chad Owens was named CFL Special Teams Player of the Week.

Argonauts WR/KR Chad Owens has claimed his third CFL Player of the Week award this season! The “Fly’n Hawaiian” has been named the CFL Special Teams Player of the Week for his inspired and game-changing effort against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Sunday afternoon at Rogers Centre.

Owens was unstoppable as a returner this weekend totalling 218 kick return yards and scoring his third kick return touchdown of the season. All told, he returned a single-game career-high eight (8) punts for 125 yards, 15.2 AVG, including an 80-yard punt return touchdown, with 4 kickoff returns for 93 yards, LG 30, 23.2 AVG.

Dave Allen of the Marin Independent Journal profiles Travis LaBoy.

LaBoy had the 49ers' lone sack in last week's loss at Seattle, but he managed just one assisted tackle Monday. With the game remaining close and the first-string defense asked to contain the Saints' dangerous offense time and again, LaBoy's contributions were limited. Still he spent a little less than half the game on the left corner rushing the passer.

"I play my role as a backup," said LaBoy, who rode a stationary bike on the sidelines when the 49ers had the ball throughout the first quarter. "I gotta keep warm - doing my Tour de France."

Isaac Sopoaga had 3 tackles in the game.

And Chawan Cut just happened to be at yesterday's 49ers game. Here's some of his photos.

UH vs CSU Game Notes, Coach Mack Show, Other News

HawaiiAthletics.com has game notes and info for this Saturday's UH vs Charleston Southern game.

HawaiiNewsNow.com has this week's Coach Mack Show up online.

Stephen Tsai wrote about the return of Matagisila Lefiti.

Lefiti suffered a fracture in his left foot during the Warriors' spring scrimmage, then underwent surgery. Lefiti, who began working out a few weeks ago, received approval to compete in this morning's practice.

"I'm ready to put on the pads and crack some heads," he said.

Also from the article, Tsai writes that there may be a smaller rotation on the defensive line and notes that Darius Bright will most likely redshirt this year.

Tsai has some observations from today's practice.

It appears, for now, Paipai Falemalu and Elliott Purcell are the No. 1 defensive ends. That could change, of course.

• Aaron Brown, George Daily-Lyles and Corey Paredes will be the starting linebackers.

• John Hardy-Tuliau and Lewis Walker are competing for the job as No. 1 nickelback.

Tsai profiles Corey Paredes, who has played every snap this season.

"Rest is all fine and dandy, but I'm trying to help my team," Paredes said. "The best thing I can do is stay on the field and make plays."

Paredes averages 13.0 tackles per game.

He also plays on the punt team, as the right guard.

Despite the workload, according to defensive coordinator Dave Aranda, "We haven't had a play where he's been cruising or anything. He plays hard all of the time."

Yesterday, Tsai wrote about Dave Aranda's response to the play of the defense.

Hawaii defensive coordinator Dave Aranda vowed to "fix" the defensive problems incurred in Saturday's 31-13 football loss to Colorado.

The Warriors (1-2) returned early yesterday from a 12-day road trip during which they defeated Army in West Point, N.Y., but lost in the mile-high elevation in Boulder, Colo.

After reviewing video of Saturday's game, Aranda said: "What really puts a bad taste in my mouth is, one, losing the game and, two, the last two touchdowns that were given up. Those were really kind of inexcusable things."

And Ferd Lewis wrote that UH got a taste of life as an independent.

Worn by the travel, weary from criss-crossing time zones and tired of sharing practices with parachutists and romping buffaloes?

Well, welcome to a taste of life as the University of Hawaii football team will likely know it should the Warriors choose to go independent in football.

Only instead of one set of back-to-back games on the mainland a season, buckle up and get ready for the possibility of doing it twice a year.

Help Vote for the UH marching band's Hawai'i 5-0 video!

CBS has a promotion to award the winning band $25,000 for their rendition of the song for the new show. Please help vote the University of Hawai'i band's video!!!! This is OUR song. No one else should be even considered! Make it happen Warrior fans!

Warriors in the Pros: NFL Week 2, Chad Owens 80-yard Punt Return for TD

Chad Owens did it again, returning a punt 80 yards for a touchdown as Toronto beat Winnipeg 17-13.

Owens' third return TD of the season was the first big play of the game for the Boatmen, who got an earful from head coach Jim Barker at halftime. It put them ahead 7-6, and they never trailed again.

"We needed a spark, someone to get us started and the best thing was C.O. got everyone fired up," said receiver Jeremaine Copeland, whose touchdown catch in the fourth quarter helped seal the deal. "This was the start of us getting into the playoffs.

Here's video of the TD. Mighty Mouse finished with 4 kick returns for 93 yards and 8 punt returns for 125 yards.

For the second straight week, Ikaika Alama-Francis was placed on the inactive list as he continues to recover from some sort of stomach bug. The good news is that he did practice on Friday so he should be good to go next week, if he didn't lose too much weight and/or strength.

Ikaika's teammate Davone Bess caught 1 pass for 12 yards in the Dolphins victory over Minnesota.

Pisa Tinoisamoa had 5 tackles as the Bears defeated the Cowboys. Mat McBriar punted 3 times for a 37.3 yard average.

Samson Satele got the start at center for the Oakland Raiders after being benched in Week 1. Raiders beat the Rams 16-14.

And Kristian R Dyer of the New York Times' Fifth Down blog profiles New York Jets offensive/defensive lineman Wayne Hunter.

It wasn’t an error in the game notes or a mistake on the part of the television or radio announcers. Jets lineman Wayne Hunter was really checking into the game on defense.

Hunter, a seventh-year pro who plays on offense as a tackle and occasionally sees snaps as a blocking tight end, came in for a goal-line stand to try to help stuff Baltimore late in the second quarter of Monday night’s game. Hunter helped the unit on two stops before the Jets conceded a touchdown.

The defensive side of the ball is not, however, a new position for Hunter.

At the University of Hawaii, Hunter played defensive tackle for the Warriors before switching to offense for his final two years.

UH vs Colorado Wrap-Ups

Here's last night's local news coverage from Hawaii News Now

Rebuffed, by Stephen Tsai

"We were right there, inside the 5 twice, and came away with nothing," Moniz said. "It's really embarrassing. Really. ... If we walk away with 14 points right there, it might be a whole different story."

Instead, it became the game's story line.

"I don't think we can let opportunities get away," Rolovich said. "That's the fatigue: knowing we left 14 points right there. That starts to wear on you when things start to get close."

Defense keeps Buffaloes alive until offense starts connecting, by Dave Reardon

On the game's second play, Smith ran from the other side of the field to tackle UH's Kealoha Pilares at the CU 3, ending an 80-yard gain on a pass from Bryant Moniz. The touchdown-saver turned out to be huge, as Colorado then made the first of two first-quarter, goal-line stands.

"For (Smith) not to quit, that was big," Hawkins said. "(Pilares is) not slow. That guy can roll."

It fired up the rest of the defense.

Reaching the Dead Zone dampens last week's road win, by Dave Reardon

If UH doesn't get stoned at the goal line those two times, Colorado couldn't do what it did in the third quarter. It wouldn't have relied strictly on its ground game to pound the oxygen-starved Warriors defense into submission. But chasing a mere 10, the Buffs went to their strength as Hawaii's stamina melted away.

"Those guys were gassed and our offensive line was blowing them 6 or 7 yards off the line," Colorado receiver Scott McKnight said.

UH's McMackin making a habit of helping coaches stick around, by Ferd Lewis

These are the kind of sliding opponents that good teams jump on and fatten up with. UH, meanwhile, seems to trip over too many of them. And, sadly, it is part of what is keeping the Warriors from being more than a .500 program.

Yesterday it was the difference between UH being 2-1 and 1-2. It was the difference in perception between a team ascending and one taking a step backward.

The Warriors were well on their way to the former until they got within sniffing distance of the goal line.

Pilares' draft stock rises despite loss, by Stephen Tsai

Left slotback Greg Salas, UH's All-America candidate, has received most of the attention from National Football League scouts.

But NFL scouts attending yesterday's game said Pilares, the starting right slotback, has generated a buzz.

Pilares gained notice when he had two long scoring plays in the fourth quarter against Southern California. Pilares has been praised for his first-step quickness, sure hands and what is regarded as "miss-ability."

Warrior Notebook, from the Star Advertiser

UH assistant coach Chris Tormey, who coordinates the special teams, said poor field positioning could be traced to blocking problems in the front line of the kick-return unit.

The Warriors were whistled for three holding penalties -- one of which was declined.

"Our front line wasn't very effective blocking their cover guys," Tormey said.

He said the blockers need to be more "physical at the point of attack."

Boos don't get to Buffaloes, by Arnie Stapleton of the AP

CU defense keeps Hawaii in check, by Ryan Thorburn of The Daily Camera

"It gave us momentum throughout the whole game because it gave our D-line confidence that they could stop them," CU cornerback Jimmy Smith said. "They had all the momentum at that point, and we stopped them so close."

CU football- tale of two halves, by Michael Krumholtz of the CU Independent

Buffs wake up, rip Hawaii in second half, by Tom Kensler of the Denver Post

And CU linebackers B.J. Beatty and Michael Sipili, who both played high school football in Hawaii, got back at their old buddies by keying the early goal-line stands that might well have saved the day for the Buffaloes.

"Lord knows we have had our share of adversity," Hawkins said. "To (his players' credit), they have never bagged it. They have never quit."

Beatty contributes two key tackles on goal-line stand, by Tom Kensler of the Denver Post

Buffs gain ground in the second half, by Natalie Meisler of the Denver Post

"The running game was crucial," Lockridge said of the running-in-place start for a 10-0 halftime disadvantage.

After just 69 yards on the ground in the first half, the Buffs finished with 252 yards on 52 carries. It was the Buffs' biggest day rushing since the 2007 game against Nebraska (a 65-51 win) when CU had 277 yards on 52 carries.

CU needs to hurry its plans, by Woody Paige of the Denver Post

Then, Hawkins said, CU "threw a rock on the gas pedal." Presumably, he meant the Buffs switched to the no-huddle, no-cuddle, no-fumble, no-crumble offense.

What took so long, Dan?

Colorado 31, Hawaii 13

Argh, that sucked. Not being able to capitalize on early scoring opportunities probably hurt UH in the end, though the way the Colorado offense moved the ball in the second half would've still made it a tough game.

The Good:

Bryant Moniz was 27 of 41 (66%) for 330 yards and 1 TD.

Kealoha Pilares had 6 catches for 117 yards and a 1 TD while Greg Salas had 9 catches for 94 yards.

The offensive line had a good game in pass protection.

Alex Dunnachie had 4 punts for an average of 44 yards, including a 61-yarder.


The Bad:

Red zone offense. UH could not punch it in from 1st and goal from the Colorado 3 twice in the first quarter.

Another substitution penalty on defense. This happened when Colorado went into a hurry-up offense.

UH's rushing offense. The talent is there, but UH's rushing offense can't seem to get going. While UH had 330 yards passing, they only had 7 yards rushing.


::::::

Game summaries and articles to be added as they become available:

The Star-Advertiser has a game summary.

Here's a wrap-up from The Denver Post.

ESPN.com has the AP wrap-up with some stats.

Here's an article from The Daily Camera.

And here are the releases from CUBuffs.com and HawaiiAthletics.com.

Ways to Follow the Hawaii at Colorado Game

Bumped. GO WARRIORS!!!!!!

Television:

Fox College Sports Central. Check local listings.


Streaming Video:

For whatever reason, Fox College Sports doesn't have streaming video of the game, unless I missed it. If you see any links, please note them in the comments.


Theaters:

On Oahu: at Consolidated's Ko'olau Theatre
On Maui: at Consolidated's Kaahumanu Theatre


Radio:

On Oahu, ESPN 1420 AM. Neighbor islands can listen live on KNUI on Maui, KHLO in Hilo, and KKON in Kona.


Streaming Audio:

Via ESPN1420AM.com

Via CUBuffs.com


Live Stats:

CUBuffs.com

ESPN Scoreboard


Blogs/Message Boards:

The Warrior Beat
SportsHawaii.com
WarriorSportsNetwork.com

....

References -- HawaiiAthletics.com and CUBuffs.com.

Game Day: UH at Colorado

Stephen Tsai has a game day preview with a breakdown of the offense, defense and specialists for both teams. Here's an excerpt about the UH defense:

With UH's multiple schemes and packages, there are 18 defenders who are considered to be starters. In the basic 4-3, Elliott Purcell and Kawika Ornellas will make their first starts of the season, and Richard Torres, who is usually the nickel back, slides over to strong safety, replacing injured Spencer Smith. In schemes involving five defensive backs, Torres stays at safety and Lewis Walker or John Hardy-Tuliau becomes the nickel back, or Torres goes to nickel back and Kenny Estes plays strong safety.

Tsai writes about the Warriors getting to meet Colorado's mascot Ralphie the Buffalo, who happens to be sponsored by Outback Steakhouse. Mmmmmmm, buffalo.

Even though the Buffaloes have their version of the haka, CU's quarterback Tyler Hansen explains why they won't do it for this game.

“That’s only a spring game deal, I guess,” CU junior quarterback Tyler Hansen said this week. “That’s (Hawaii’s) thing to intimidate us.

“We’ve seen it before. We’ve done it before. We know what it is, and it’s pretty cool to see. But we’ve got to come out and control what we can control.”

I don't understand what he's trying to say.

Kyle Ringo of The Daily Camera previews the game, and notes that the Buffaloes are wearing throwback jerseys for their home games this season.

This season`s team is honoring that era by wearing 1990 throwback jerseys in each of the six home games this fall. Players already know they need to make drastic improvement over last week`s performance, but the privilege of wearing the 1990 jerseys adds another level of responsibility for some.

I also hope it means that they'll be wearing those circa 1990 gigantic shoulder pads.

Tom Kensler of the Denver Post writes that this is a very important game for Colorado.

It doesn't take tea leaves — or access to the private thoughts of Colorado athletic director Mike Bohn — to know that anything shy of a convincing victory today over visiting Hawaii would render an uncertain future for the Buffaloes' season and the coaching staff.

This is a crossroads game for the Buffs. The psyche of the team, bowl aspirations and Dan Hawkins' job security are on the line this afternoon at Folsom Field.

Dave Reardon writes that this is a very important game for UH.

If UH is a program to ever be taken seriously on the national scene, this is the kind of game it needs to win, at least once in a while. Catching a big name like Colorado during a down cycle is a gift, but one UH has rarely cashed in on.

The Longmont Times-Call has another article about how important this game is for CU.

There’s no question this is a big one.

Hawkins needs this game. He is 17-34 at CU and simply can’t afford to have a non-ranked opponent from the Western Athletic Conference come into Boulder and beat his team. All signs point to him needing a winning season to keep his job for 2011. Lose today, and the chances for a winning season drop dramatically.

The team needs this game, too. Once this one is over, the Buffs take a week off before hosting perennial national power Georgia. The last thing CU needs is to stew over two straight losses for the next two weeks.

“It would really help us out in terms of positive momentum going into the following week,” McKnight said.

And from a couple days ago, more video previews from KHON and KGMB.

Video: Colorado Previews

Chawan Cut apologizes but there will be no Chawan's Cuts for the next few days. In the meantime, here's tonight's news from the source: KHON's Rob DeMello and HawaiiNewsNow's Liz Chun.

WitP: Solomon Elimimian

Gord McIntyre of The Province has a Q&A with Solomon Elimimian. Here's an excerpt:

Q: Your older brother Abraham was an all-WAC cornerback at Hawaii. I take it he was someone you looked up to?

A: For sure. He went to Hawaii and I followed in his footsteps. He played in NFL Europe and he played in the NFL and right now he's coaching at SMU [with former Hawaii coach June Jones].

He's definitely a figure I've looked up to, a role model. He always encouraged me to do the right thing.

I think if my brother wasn't doing the right thing, I probably wouldn't be talking to you right now. But the fact he was doing the right thing, I wanted to be like him, I wanted to be a success.

Allen Sampson, UH-CU Previews, Analysis, Kamau, Benson

Stephen Tsai writes that Allen Sampson is UH's #1 kick returner.

As a member of Plant (Fla.) High's team, Sampson was timed running 40 yards in 4.39 seconds.

While his speed earned him a scholarship, his best assets might be his eyes and heart.

"He has really good vision," Tormey said. "He makes those blockers look good If they can just get on someone, stick on someone, he'll make a play. With his speed, quickness and vision, he can see what he needs to do, and he can do something about it."

Brian Howell of the Longmont Times-Call previews the UH-Colorado game.

“I know what they’re capable of,” CU head coach Dan Hawkins said. “I think they’re probably, in some respects, as dynamic as they’ve ever been.”

That’s saying a lot, because in recent years, Hawaii has featured Colt Brennan, whose 186.0 passer rating and 58 touchdown passes in 2006 are both NCAA records, and Timmy Chang, whose 17,072 career passing yards is an NCAA record.

This year, the Warriors are led by junior quarterback Bryant Moniz. Through two games, he’s thrown for 612 yards and four touchdowns. He has yet to be picked off. Moniz is also a threat running the ball.

“He’s a fast dude,” CU linebacker B.J. Beatty said. “He can move. He can throw the ball. He’s a dangerous tool for them.”

Dave Reardon highlights former high school foes Beatty and Moniz as well as the other CU players with Hawaii ties. Reardon also has notes about Riley Wallace visiting practice, and Alex Dunnachie punting in altitude.

Kyle Ringo of the Daily Camera writes about the CU secondary facing Moniz.

"Their quarterback is the No. 1 dude who stands out because of how fast he is and how much he is accurate throwing the ball and how much they throw the ball peri-od," cornerback Jimmy Smith said. "That`s definitely going to be a game for the secondary."

Coach Dan Hawkins identified the secondary as the strength of the 2010 Colorado team when he was asked about it way back in July at Big 12 media days in Dallas. That theory will be put to the test and then some against the Warriors.

Michael Krumholtz of the CU Independent looks at what the Buffaloes hope to do vs UH.

To help, CU will count on the little back that could, junior Rodney Stewart, whose longest rush of the season is only 10 yards. A good amount of prolonged runs can also help the offensive line get some confidence back.

“They’re sick of whether it be guys in the locker-room or people from the outside saying it’s their fault,” said senior receiver Scotty McKnight. “It’s never solely on one position, but I think that did get under their skin a little bit. They want to let Tyler feel comfortable in the pocket and let the team know they’re going to do a good job.”

Hawaii’s defense has yet to force an interception and has registered one sack in two games. This first game at Folsom presents a golden opportunity for the offensive line to recuperate from the beating Cal gave them.

Chris Dempsey of the Denver Post has more on the CU offensive line.

At practice this week players reported seeing a more aggressive attitude from the line. Wide receiver Scotty McKnight, whose production depends on a quarterback who has enough time to deliver the football said: "They are sick, whether it be guys in the locker room or people on the outside saying it's their fault. It's never solely on one position, but I think that did get under their skin a little bit, and they want to let Tyler feel comfortable in the pocket and let the team know they are going to do their job."

Tom Kensler of the Denver Post writes about a CU pass rusher the UH offensive line might have to watch out for.

Top pass rushers often rely on a favorite technique to get past the offensive tackle. A native of Long Beach, Calif., Uzo-Diribe grew up with a love for basketball and did not start football until his junior year of high school. But he already has an effective spin move from around the edge.

Uzo-Diribe twirls almost 360 degrees to break free from the block and seemingly does not lose a step.

The Ralphie Report has a game preview with a look at key matchups.

Greg Salas vs. Paul Vigo & the Colorado Safeties

-Salas had 1,600 yards last season. He is good. He will make some catches tomorrow. All we can hope is that Vigo, Polk and Perkins can limit his big plays. If they can keep Salas in front of them, Hawaii's Offense will be easier to handle. It will not be easy. Salas is a crafty Senior with much more experience than the guys who will be covering him.

Dave Reardon profiles team manager Kyle Kamau.

The work day for Kamau and most of the other 20 students, volunteers and professionals who make up the support staff on the road begins at least an hour before the team's practices, which are usually early in the morning. And it doesn't end until long after practice, with preparations for the next day completed.

"He's a tremendous asset to the team," said Lori Figueroa, who is the UH football team's travel group coordinator. "He never complains, never gives a hint that he might think something is not within his job description."

And John Henderson of the Denver Post talks to WAC commish Karl Benson.

He said it's a "100 percent slam dunk" a judge will rule in his favor and keep Fresno State and Nevada around next season, since they missed the July 1 deadline to inform him of their departure. But that's only a Band-Aid for a gushing wound.

His rescue plan isn't terribly appealing. He met Wednesday with Larry Coker, the former Miami football coach taking over Texas-San Antonio's program, which begins next season, and his athletic director. Benson said Texas State is contemplating a move up from FCS.

Benson wouldn't confirm other potential additions, but it's believed Montana, Portland State and Sacramento State are considering similar moves and the WAC has plenty of seats available. Portland State and Sacramento State? Tough to get excited about those.

John Hardy-Tuliau, Vegas, Moniz, CU

Stephen Tsai has an excellent profile of John Hardy-Tuliau.

Indeed, the freshman's play has given the coaches reason for pause.

His play also has earned him a special role as a defensive back for Saturday's road game against Colorado.

"I like everything about him," UH head coach Greg McMackin said. "I like his speed. I like his smarts. He's tall (5-foot-11), and he's quick, really quick. He has agility. You name it. He has those qualities."

Tsai writes about the Warriors keeping up with their academic responsibilities on the road.

For this three-city, 13-day road trip, the Warriors worked out assignments with their professors in advance. The lessons are online, and homework is submitted through e-mail. There are academic advisers traveling to administer tests. Study halls are mandatory.

"You have to keep up," said Allen Sampson, a freshman receiver. "Coach (Greg McMackin) makes sure that school comes first. A lot of times, he'll cancel meetings so we can study."

Tsai also notes that Aaron Brown returned to practice yesterday, and center Matagisila Lefiti has been cleared for practice. The coaches have a dilemma when they get back since Bronson Tiwanak has been doing so well.

Ray Brewer of the Las Vegas Sun writes about UH's stopover in Summerlin.

“This is a great situation for us,” Hawaii coach Greg McMackin said. “We have great kids. People think I am crazy for bringing the kids to Vegas, but we’ve had no problems here. There are no distractions. We treat this like a business trip.”

John Henderson of the Denver Post profiles Bryant Moniz.

It's a good thing Bryant Moniz doesn't have his old job anymore.

Imagine how long it would take if every person he meets realizes the guy at the door delivering their pizza is the quarterback credited for Hawaii's current football revival.

The pizzas in the truck would've gone cold by the time he escaped the first porch

Apparently, UH better keep Colorado to less than 200 yards rushing.

There is plenty of evidence to suggest the Buffs could put themselves in position to win much more often than they have been winning lately if they can build a stronger running game. According to research from the CU sports information department, the Buffs are 79-5-1 since 1989 when rushing for more than 200 yards in a game. They are 127-14-3 when out-rushing an opponent in that same time.

In Hawkins' career as a head coach, his teams are 38-1 when rushing for 200 or more yards in a game, including a 6-1 mark at CU.

"We do practice it," Hagan said of the running game. "It's not an excuse for us not to be a dominant team. When we call it, we should expect more. (Last week) is only one game and things will get better from here. I believe that."

On the flipside, it might be a good time to unleash the Alex Green and Chizzy Dimude Show.

Considering that Hawaii has passed for 802 yards and run for only 139 in two games, expect CU to retain the extra defensive back for a majority of the plays.

Dave Reardon profiles CU coach Brian Cabral, who has hopes to be a head coach some day.

And finally, a Colorado student wants the school to reimburse him for his trip to California.

"I was just so disappointed by our team, again, and I wanted to make a point to the athletic department about it," Lounis said.

And a statement was definitely made when Lounis sent an e-mail to the athletic department requesting reimbursement for his ticket and travel expenses.

"That does not even deserve a response," CU athletics spokesman David Plati wrote in an e-mail Tuesday.

Video: Colorado, Altitude

Here's tonight's Chawan's Cut. KITV and KGMB preview the Colorado game. Liz Chun interviews UH players and coaches about getting used to the dry air and altitude.

WitP: Ikaika, Bess, Pisa

MiamiDolphins.com has an update on Ikaika Alama-Francis.

Alama-Francis was so looking forward to last week’s game at Buffalo, especially because he knew he had a good chance of starting, but a virus that he woke up with on Saturday morning prevented him from taking the field. He was made inactive 90 minutes before the game as he was being treated by different doctors, but today inside the locker room he said he feels better, even though he didn’t practice.

“You’re working so hard during camp and preseason games and everything, and the first regular-season game you’re so excited and I was ready to play, too,” Alama-Francis said. “Just certain circumstances happen and I got sick and that’s what happened. I don’t know when it happened but it was bad and my fever was pretty high. It just takes time to get rid of.”

Ikaika's teammate Davone Bess talks about what's become his specialty as a Dolphin -- converting on third down:



And Chicago Bears GM Jerry Angelo likes what he saw out of Pisa Tinoisamoa and the rest of the Bears linebackers this past Sunday.

“I thought our linebackers played exceptionally well, all of them. I don’t remember a game where all of them had stellar performances like Sunday. I think Lance Briggs is one of the best short-yardage linebackers in all of football. It’s amazing how many great plays he’s made in those situations. He made a play on the goal line in a very tough spot of the field where linemen typically don’t allow penetration. Pisa attacked and disrupted plays throughout the game. We also saw the old Brian Urlacher. It was great to see him out there making plays, hustling, and bringing all that energy to the unit. It was just a great day for our linebackers.”

WitP: RGM

Craig Slater of The Leader-Post profiles new Saskatchewan Roughrider Ryan Grice-Mullen.

Grice-Mullen's elusiveness is one of his greatest strengths as a player. His speed and quickness will likely be added to the Riders' special teams in the coming weeks, if not in time for Friday's showdown with the visiting Calgary Stampeders.

"He has an explosive burst to him and I think he gives you, as he gets familiar with things, a real threat in a return game," Riders' special teams co-ordinator Jim Daley told the media on Wednesday.

Riders defensive back Lance Frazier is confident in Grice-Mullen's abilities, especially his speed in the return game.

"He makes an impact on special teams, which we really need," Frazier told the media. "He's replacing a guy who was supposed to be the guy (Dominique Dorsey), so I'm sure he has something to prove.

"He's a threat and he can blow the top off the defence."

Colorado, News and Notes, Etc

The Sports Network has a UH vs Colorado preview.

Brian Howell of the Longmont Times-Call writes about Colorado's hopes to bounce back from the loss to Cal.

By Tuesday, the Buffs were angry. And ready to play another game.

“The confidence isn’t down,” senior receiver Scotty McKnight said. “It’s almost a little more fire. We know that game shouldn’t have gone the way it did.

“We have confidence and we know that we can be a very, very good football team.”

“I think we need to come out here and win,” McKnight said. “I think a little bit of that is gaining support back from fans. I think people are kind of down generally (about) the team. This is a big game for us. Not to say that the other games aren’t, but this is one of those things that we can use for positive momentum.”

Stephen Tsai writes about UH's moves on defense.

Richard Torres, the No. 1 nickelback, will replace Smith as the strong safety in the base 4-3 defense.

In schemes involving five defensive backs, the coaches are mulling whether to keep Torres at safety or move him back to nickelback. If Torres is at safety, then Lewis Walker, Jordan Gomes or John Hardy-Tuliau will play nickelback. If Torres moves to nickel, then Kenny Estes or Gomes will play strong safety.

Aranda said that Kawika Ornellas, a sophomore walk-on from Mililani High, now is "bracketed" with Lametrius Davis at left cornerback atop the depth chart. Davis started UH's first two games. Both will play against Colorado.

Elliott Purcell is projected to start at defensive left end. Liko Satele, who started UH's first two games, will split time with right end Kamalu Umu. The coaches want to ease the burden on Umu, who is averaging more than 50 defensive plays per game.

Tsai has some news and notes about Kealoha Pilares being a gunner on punt coverage, John Hardy-Tuliau blocking kicks, and David Graves practicing at QB and safety.

"It was a good first day," said Graves, who played safety through his junior year of high school before moving to quarterback as a senior. "I was listening to coach Miano while he was coaching up the guys for the game plan this week. It was making a lot of sense to me."

And Ferd Lewis and Dave Reardon have articles about the WAC, the lawsuits, the hurt feelings, etc.

WitP: Chad Owens, Solomon Elimimian, David Veikune

CFL.ca sportswriters gave out their mid-season awards and a couple of ex-UH players were recipients.

MOST OUTSTANDING SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER

Stein’s pick: Chad Owens (TOR) – I would pay money to see Chad Owens play football. He is exciting, electrifying and game changing whenever he is on the field. He brings a crowd to its feet and creates a buzz in the stadium whenever he touches the ball on a return. Even when he doesn’t return the ball he is a factor – see Ryan Christian’s return for a touchdown against Montreal. Owens is averaging 11.2 yards per punt return, which is tops in the CFL among players with more than 12 returns. Owens has also added a spectacular 117 yard touchdown on a missed field goal return – a play that makes teams think twice about attempting a long field goal.

Mitch’s pick: Chad Owens (TOR) – Agreed. No brainer on this one. Owens has been outstanding this year. Every time the ball touches his hands you expect something big to happen.

MOST OUTSTANDING ROOKIE

Stein’s pick: Solomon Elimimian (BC) – Defensive players often get less of the spotlight than their flashy offensive counterparts. That is why I’m giving the nod for Most Outstanding Rookie to the B.C. Lions’ Solomon Elimimian. All season long he has demonstrated a fearless attitude on the football field while making plays for B.C.’s strong defence. The fact that Elimimian cracked such a veteran line-up is all the more impressive. He plays a lot bigger than his 5’11”, 225 lbs. frame and represents a great find by the B.C.’s scouts.

And David Veikune worked out for the Philadelphia Eagles yesterday.

Tonight's local news: Vegas! Torres! Graves! Sue Sue Sue!!

Hearing from KHON, KITV and KGMB/KHNL from Vegas. Replacing Spencer Smith with Reggie Torres and David Graves.
And the WAC sues Fresno, Nevada and the MWC. Go get em Karl!

UH vs Colorado Game Info

Here's the weekly press releases with game notes and info from HawaiiAthletics.com and CUBuffs.com.

The teams have met once with Hawai‘i winning 13-0 on Jan. 1, 1925 in Honolulu. UH is 2-12-1 all-time against current members of the Big 12 Conference and have not played at a Big 12 school since playing at Nebraska in 1978.

UH is in the midst of a 13-day road trip which covers 11,184 air miles and takes the team to eight cities in five states and four time zones for non-conference games at Army and Colorado.

Blaze tries out for the Bears

Blaze Soares had a tryout with the Chicago Bears today.

Perhaps in anticipation they will need to consider adding a linebacker, the Bears worked out four free-agent linebackers at Halas Hall on Tuesday, according to a source with knowledge of the situation. Marcus Buggs (Vanderbilt), Blaze Soares (Hawaii), Nate Triplett (Minnesota) and Donovan Woods (Oklahoma State) all had tryouts.

It would be awesome if they picked him up. GO BLAZAH!

WitP: RGM Signs with Roughriders, Mauia a Cardinal again

Ryan Grice-Mullen has agreed to terms with the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL.

And Reagan Mauia has re-signed with the Arizona Cardinals. I believe this is the third time in about a year that Mauia has signed with the Cardinals. He was waived the previous two times. The Juggernaut cannot be stopped!

The Cardinals made a roster move Tuesday, bringing back — yet again — fullback Reagan Maui’a and releasing fullback Jerome Johnson, who lasted all of a week.

Coach Mack Show

Woo hoo, looks like Hawaii News Now will be making the Coach Mack Show available online, or at least they did this week. This week's episode is a review of the Army game and a look ahead to the Colorado game.