Hawaii Warriors
2000 overall record: 3-9
Conference record: 2-6 (t-6th)
Returning starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 5
Kickers: 1
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: James Fenderson (651 yds)
Passing: Timmy Chang* (3,041 yds)
Receiving: Ashlet Lelie* (1,110 yds)
Tackles: Jacob Espiau* (126)
Sacks: Pisa Tinoisamoa* and Chris Brown* (4 each)
Interceptions: Nate Jackson* (7)
What's new
The main emphasis for the 2001 season will be stopping the run. The Warriors ranked 105th in the nation in that area last year, allowing more than 200 yards per game. Defensive linemen Joe Correia and Chris Brown have switched to linebacker to add depth at that position. The results won't be known until the fall because the team didn't do much full speed work in the spring.
Battling it out
Hawaii lost its top two rushers from last season, and Thero Mitchell is the only experienced returner. He has seen limited time as a backup (11 carries with two TDs last year). Redshirt freshman Chad Kapanui, who was recruited as a quarterback, is also in the race along with senior Tui Ala. Incoming freshman Mike Bass could also be a factor in August.
Eye catcher: DE Wayne Hunter
Hunter sat out last season after transferring from Cal. At 6-5, 286, he is a physically impressive player who is expected to have a big impact on the defense this season. He didn't get much contact work in the spring, but was an eye catcher on the scout team last year.
Budding star: G Vince Manuwai
The 6-2, 296-pound junior is a two-year starter and versatile contributor. He played at both guard and tackle last year and was one of two players named as "most inspirational" on the team. He earned honorable mention All-WAC honors and certainly has the talent to be even better than that this season.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
