The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors begin training camp with some key positions to watch. Hawaii begins camp on July 27 and coach Timmy Chang said there are three positions for fans to watch. Running backs, wide receivers, and defensive backs will be under the spotlight as Hawaii prepares for the 2022 season.
Chang spoke with Hawaii football reporters on ESPN Honolulu’s podcast. Hawaii’s head coach said there are a lot of young players in the secondary who will be called on to help Hawaii’s defense. Chang also said players on offense have an opportunity to become household names.
What’s so significant about the skill positions?
Hawaii currently has 11 wide receivers and seven running backs on its roster. Coach Chang is offensive-minded and has depth on his roster. The depth at both positions is significant because Hawaii does not have a lot of highly ranked skill players. However, having depth will come in handy during the regular season. Wide receivers Jonah Panoke and James Phillips were ranked as 3-star athletes. Additionally, running backs Tylan Hines and Derek Boyd Jr. were ranked as 3-star athletes.
Depth at skill positions will help Hawaii build on its strong offense from the 2021 season. Hawaii averaged 405 yards per game in 2021. The Warrior’s offense also averaged 281.7 passing yards and 142 rushing yards per game.
The Warriors Secondary?
The most attention will be on the secondary. Twenty defensive backs are on Hawaii’s roster. If Hawaii wants to have a successful season, they must improve their defense. In 2021, the warrior’s defense allowed 446 yards per game. A surplus of players in the secondary will help Hawaii limit opposing teams passing attacks.