Stallion wrote:This ain't a big surprise. Its more than just a QBHawaii only returned 8 starters-lost 14 starters including every one of the talented receiving corp.
That stat is extremely deceiving, especially on the defensive side of the ball. The D last season was 2 or 3 deep at each position and the backups got significant playing time. For example, David Veikune was a backup DE last season and isn't counted as a returning starter...even though he got starter-level playing time and was All-WAC last season!
On the offensive side of the ball, there were major losses. The OL returned both tackles and the center, plus there were many guards returning that were starters or were near starter level. But the OL, especially the tackles, has regressed with the loss of McKnight and the transition to a new OL coach.
The skill positions suffered MAJOR losses, of course. One slotback is now starting in the NFL. The other slotback is playing in the CFL (he was doing well in the Houston Texans' camp until a hamstring injury). One wideout is on the Bills practice squad right now. And the other wideout was with the Titans but his back problems hampered him significantly. Colt Brennan put up amazing stats in the preseason and has been widely praised by many of his former critics.
Tyler Graunke is a senior and actually started a game last season (Hawaii's only win ever at Nevada)...but he had major problems with suspensions and injuries. The Junior QB Funaki has struggled (I think he played well in some games like the win at Fresno State but concussions and other problems have hampered him). One of the two JC QBs signed by McMackin will probably be the starter for the rest of the season but he still doesn't know the offense. One problem for JC QBs is that it can take a year or 1.5 years to learn the offense, but Alexander only has 2 seasons with Hawaii.
By the way, condolences to JJ and his family. My understanding is that JJ was in Portland to be with his gravely ill mother.
Posted: Sun Nov 02, 2008 6:23 pm