Friday, October 12, 2001
Doak Walker Award candidate Chris Porter of Texas El-Paso is out with a dislocated elbow, but that doesn't ease Kevin Lempa's mind as his Hawaii defense prepares for the Miners on Saturday at Aloha Stadium. Warriors’ defense has
legitimate concerns
about UTEP backupBy Dave Reardon
dreardon@starbulletin.comThe Warriors are 7-point favorites, but the Hawaii defensive coordinator is worried about Porter's backup, Sherman Austin. Lempa has had scout-teamer Michael Brewster don the yellow jersey as a featured opponent this week, simulating Austin.
"He's the guy who hurt us last year. He's got a lot of ability and they use him in a lot of capacities," Lempa said. "As a wide receiver, in the backfield. He's a versatile athlete. That's why we've got No. 3 over there for us, Michael Brewster. He can do all those things, too. He gives us a great picture of what we'll be up against."
Austin, a 5-foot 8-inch, 180-pound junior, leads UTEP with 56 carries and 246 rushing yards. He's scored four rushing touchdowns and one receiving TD this season.
All-American Brian Natkin has completed his eligibility, but the Miners are still strong at tight end with senior Joey Knapp.
"He had some catches and blocked well against us last year," Lempa said. "This team likes to feature the tight end. But don't forget about Lee Mays. Other than (UH's) Ashley Lelie, he's the best wide receiver in the league."
QB choice on game day: Yesterday, after Tim Chang threw well in his first 11-on-11 drills since he sprained his wrist nearly two weeks ago, coach June Jones said his quarterback could be ready to play tomorrow.
But no decision will be made until tomorrow, prior to the game.
"He looked like normal. I'm sure it's still a little sore, but he threw it and he threw it good," Jones said. "We don't do a lot of throwing (in Friday practices) so we'll watch him in pregame warmups."
Backup Nick Rolovich looked sharp, too.
"He's had a good week of practice," Jones said. "The success last week helped him."
For the needy: The Hawaii Foodbank, along with the UH athletic department and the St. Francis Imaging Center, will be collecting canned goods, peanut butter and rice tomorrow as they ask Warrior fans to "share the tailgate" with Hawaii's hungry.
UH Athletics
Ka Leo O Hawaii