David Graves‘ first act as Hawaii’s No. 1 quarterback was a stretch.
"I really believe in flexibility," said Graves, who will make his first UH football start in Saturday’s game against Tulane. "I love to stretch a lot. That’s the most important thing."
After rushing for a touchdown and throwing for two more in a relief appearance against Fresno State, Graves was promoted to starter for the final two games of the regular season. He opened the year No. 3, behind Bryant Moniz, who suffered a season-ending broken ankle, and Shane Austin.
"We identified our starter, and he needs to get as many reps as he can with the starters," head coach Greg McMackin said.
On Tuesdays, the team spends an hour in video sessions and strategy meetings, and an hour practicing. There are 2-hour practices scheduled for today and Thanksgiving.
"It went quickly," Graves said. "I look forward to (Wednesday’s) practice. I love playing football. It’s so much fun for me. I’m excited to go out there."
‘The Warden’ locks down nickelback spot
These days, the "Warden" is patrolling the defensive secondary.
"They call him the ‘Warden’ because he locks people down," associate head coach Rich Miano said of sophomore Dee Maggitt.
Maggitt was recruited as a cornerback in 2010, but did not break into the starting lineup until last week, as a nickelback. The Warriors employ nickel coverages, which involve five defensive backs, about half of the defensive plays.
"I’ve been waiting for my time," Maggitt said.
Maggitt gained notice on special teams.
"Coach Miano said most people don’t just come in and play right away," Maggitt said. "You have to prove you can run and tackle on special teams. I was doing that on a consistent basis."
As the nickelback, Maggitt serves as a pass defender against the inside receiver, and as a blitzer, where he aligns in the tackle box.
"I had to learn on the fly," Maggitt said of playing near the line of scrimmage.
"He’s learning a lot," Miano said of Maggitt. "He’s been a big help."
Maggitt might be on the move again. Next season, he might compete at cornerback — Tank Hopkins is a senior — or safety.
"We’ll see," Maggitt said.
Warriors scrambling in coaches’ booth
Already short-handed on the field because of injuries, the Warriors now are understaffed in the coaches’ booth.
Video coordinator Chris Williams is on personal leave. The Warriors have had to scramble to produce video cut-ups. McMackin said a video specialist will be brought in from the mainland.
