StarBulletin.com

Raiders' scheme doesn't change with Arakawa at QB


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POSTED: Monday, December 01, 2008

Sometimes, defenses will take their chances against 'Iolani.

That will likely include Radford, which plays 'Iolani for the Division II state title on Friday. Because the Raiders employ a no-huddle offense, most defensive coordinators will opt for a quicker lineup. For Punahou, a potent squad that reached this week's Division I state football final, this meant using six to seven defensive backs.

In a game mostly dominated by Punahou, 'Iolani had its moments of great execution. The Raiders had the ball at Punahou's 8-yard line in the second quarter when they decided to go with play-action.

Kellen Imada, 'Iolani's prolific running back, lined up as a slot, or more technically, a wingback. That should've been one tip-off that something was odd.

A triple-receiver formation usually gives the solo receiver on the opposite side single coverage, a green light for the offense and a red alert for any defense backed up to its end zone. However, it was slotback Keenan Hoohuli (4) who went in motion, bringing a defensive back with him.

On the snap, Punahou blitzed linebackers from each edge, giving the defense five pass rushers. In the Pistol formation, quarterback Kela Marciel (10) faked the handoff to the running back going right, freezing the left 'backer momentarily.

The other 'backer had a free route to the pocket because Imada allowed it. The play design was immaculate. With Marciel rolling left, the 'backer had to change direction, but Imada was right there to pin him inside.

The left-side receiver, Trevyn Tulonghari (14) ran a corner route. The opposite receiver, Brandon Ball (23) went deep, as well. That opened the middle of the field for Hoohuli, who ran a smooth drag route into the back of the end zone.

With two safeties converging on the running back, and then spying on the speedy Marciel, Hoohuli beat his man. Marciel delivered a strike to Hoohuli, who made a diving grab for a touchdown.

Marciel is a full-time cornerback and part-time receiver, which begs the question: Will the Raiders call similar play-action with Jarrett Arakawa at quarterback? The junior is a lefty—always an irritation for defenses—and should be comfortable rolling left. Though he's not a scrambler like Marciel, Arakawa is certainly mobile.