Football fans, get ready for the start of the 2022 college football season. Fans, coaches, and players can’t wait for kickoff. Hawaii football fans won’t have to wait any longer to see their team play. Hawaii plays Vanderbilt Saturday in Honolulu, Hawaii. The game will be played at Clarence TC. Ching Athletics complex at 4:30 p.m. Hawaii standard time.
Both teams enter the season looking to avenge their records from last season. Hawaii was 6-7 and Vanderbilt was a woeful 2-10.
Saturday’s matchup will be Hawaii’s first meeting with an SEC team in nine years. The Rainbow Warriors beat Alabama 37-29 during the 2003 season.
Hawaii Preview
Head Coach Timmy Chang
Timmy Chang enters his first season as head coach for Hawaii’s football program. Chang is a household name and holds multiple records from his playing days. This is Chang’s first head coaching job, and he has connected with his team over the offseason.
Offense
According to football outsiders, Hawaii’s offense ranked 109 nationally out of 130 qualifying teams. The Warriors averaged 28.7 points per game, 142.8 rushing yards per game, and 262.1 passing yards per game. If Hawaii wants to win, they must improve on third-down. Hawaii only converted 35 percent of the time on third-down. Converting on third-down keeps drives alive and helps offenses score points.
The biggest question mark for Hawaii is who will start at quarterback. Coach Chang hasn’t announced who will start at quarterback. Hawaii’s quarterbacks are Jake Farrell, Cammon Cooper, Brayden Schrager, Armani Edden, and Joey Yellen. Whoever starts will have to have complete command of the offense and limit turnovers.
Defense
Hawaii must improve its defense, as it was ranked 113 nationally. Additionally, Hawaii allowed 31.4 points per game,446 yards per game., and 14 takeaways. Defense will be the key to securing a victory. Hawaii must create turnovers and limit explosive plays.
Vanderbilt Preview
Head Coach Clark Lea
Clark Lea enters his second season as coach for Vanderbilt. Lea had a tough season in 2021 and looks to have a successful season in 2022. Vanderbilt must start the season strong. Over the last four seasons, Commodores are 11-35.
Vanderbilt plays in a tough SEC division and winning the first game would help them. Coach Lea’s team can build momentum and become a winning football program.
Offense
Vanderbilt’s offense ranked 118 nationally. Additionally, Vanderbilt averaged 123.3 rushing yards and 189.3 passing yards. The Commodores will try to attack Hawaii’s defense and show versatility. Vanderbilt has a strong offensive line, good-skill players, and a dynamic quarterback in Mike Wright. If Vandy can control the clock and win in the trenches they can win the game.
Mike Wright Jr is a dynamic quarterback who can lead Vandy’s offense. Wright can pass the ball and use his legs when running the ball. Vanderbilt can use his athleticism to create mismatches against Hawaii’s defense.
Defense
Vanderbilt allowed 457 yards per game in 2021. In order to start the season right, Vandy must limit Hawaii’s offense. Coach Chang said Vanderbilt has a good secondary that can make plays. Limiting big passing plays and staying disciplined will be key for Vanderbilt.
Final Thoughts
Saturday’s game will be physical and exciting. The game comes down to who can execute on offense, defense, and special teams. Coach Chang’s players must show that the stage isn’t too big for them. Coach Lea’s team must put 2021 behind them and compete to their best ability. Let’s kick off the season!!
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