OFFENSIVE LINE (OL)
GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE@STARBULLETIN.COM
Senior right tackle Dane Uperesa is one of three starting offensive linemen who hail from the North Shore of Oahu.
|
|
The big kids of 2003 are all grown up now
Three years ago, Tala Esera, Samson Satele and Dane Uperesa were part of a major rebuilding project. The Hawaii offensive line lost Vince Manuwai and Wayne Hunter to the pros in the 2003 NFL Draft, and a bunch of freshmen were being asked to fill their cleats. In Esera's case, it was without even the benefit of a redshirt year to learn the craft, since he came to UH as a defensive lineman before being switched after his first spring camp.
Over the years they've developed into the foundation of what the Warriors hope is an unyielding wall, with Esera at left tackle, Satele at center and Uperesa at right tackle.
The three seniors have all started since they were freshmen, blocking for NCAA record-setter Tim Chang, Alabama-beater Jason Whieldon, and now, the current run-and-shooter, Colt Brennan.
UH expects to allow fewer than the 38 sacks of last year. It was an uncharacteristically high number for the Warriors, but not unexpected with a new quarterback.
Satele's move to the middle means his cousin, Hercules Satele, gets a chance at left guard. John Estes, a freshman who impressed in spring practice, emerged as No. 1 at right guard. Both will be pushed hard by undersized but athletic and versatile senior Marques Kaonohi.
Unit at a glance
Moving 1 spot over instead of 1 level up
You know the one about the best move often being the one you don't make?
Samson Satele hopes it's true in his case.
Hawaii's best offensive lineman was tempted to test the NFL Draft after three years in the college trenches. But, to the relief of Warrior fans and coach June Jones, Satele decided to stick around and pick up a degree and hopefully a WAC title before moving on to professional riches.
The Outland Trophy nominee, however, gladly made one move that will undoubtedly help his future -- as well as the Warriors' chances to win this season. Satele, who started out as a tackle and played guard the past two seasons, is now UH's starting center.
It gives the 6-foot-3, 298-pound Kailua graduate more opportunity to project his leadership skills. It also increases his stock in the eyes of NFL decision-makers.
In a few months, it will be their move.