June Jones built this program into a title contender and Greg McMackin continues the tradition by keeping the program competitive as they prepare to make a move up to the MWC in 2012. In the meantime the Warriors are trying to win the WAC one last time as they head for the exit door.
Hawaii runs a potent offense known as the run and shoot. The formation consists of one running back and between two and four wide receivers. This system makes extensive use of receiver motion (having a receiver suddenly change position by running left or right, parallel to the line of scrimmage, just before the ball is snapped), both to create advantageous mismatches with the opposing defensive players and to help reveal what coverage the defense is using.
The Bows are led by QB Bryan Moniz who happens to be the best QB in the WAC. He leads an offense that only returns three starters. The Warriors need to rebuild their entire offensive line and most of the sill positions. Reviews were mixed this spring with the defense dominating the offense.
RB Joey Iosefa impressed this spring and should be the starter this fall. Sr WR Royce Pollard will be Moniz's favorite target but Hawaii needs to replace three of its top four receivers. Keep an eye RS 6'3 230 Darius Bright was very impressive and physical this spring. SR OT Austin Hansen is the lone returning starter on the offensive line.
Hawaii returns six starters on defense. Tackles Vaughn Meatoga and Kaniela Tuipulutu have the talent challenge the Washington offensive line. Aaron Brown and Corey Paredes are both solid and experienced LB's who move well. Hawaii needs to replace find replacements at corner but they return Richard Torres and John Hardy at safety.
Washington Vs Hawaii
The Rainbow Warriors are getting a lot of love in the preview magazines this spring. Bryan Moniz is a polished senior QB with NFL potential. Hawaii has a lot of holes to fill but the word on the street is that they have the horses to get it done.
Getting it done probably doesn't mean starting the season with victories over PAC 12 members Colorado and Washington. I think a split is about the best they can hope for. Even though Washington will be breaking in a new QB I really don't see a single position where the Bows have an advantage over the Huskies.
Hawaii has a history of poor performances on the mainland. I think that trend will continue at Husky Stadium in September.
Washington 31 Hawaii 17