Hawaii quarterback Tim Chang practiced today for the first time in 13 days, and coach June Jones said Chang might start Saturday in the Warriors' season-opener Saturday against Eastern Illinois at Aloha Stadium. Chang returns
to practice todayBy Dave Reardon
dreardon@starbulletin.comChang, UH's starter going into two-a-days, broke a bone in the pinkie of his throwing hand in practice during fall camp. He had thrown a football only a few times after the injury before today.
Chang said he felt a little discomfort, but most of his passes were on-target.
Chang used a soft brace on his last two fingers that was to keep pressure off the broken bone.
"You gotta play through those things and I'm gonna try to do that," Chang said. "If he gives me the shot, I'll be willing to take it."
Jones said he would likely start Chang if he is OK, but still play Jason Whieldon, who was moved up to No. 1 quarterback when Chang got hurt.
"They'll probably both get in the game," Jones said.
"I think Timmy will struggle with some things with his hand and the other guy will play some."
Jones said he won't officially name a starter before game-time.
Chang, the Western Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year in 2000, sat out most of last season with ligament damage to his right wrist.
In other news, JC transfer defensive lineman Matt Faga has not completed eligibility requirements and will not play or practice with the team this fall. Also, freshman defensive lineman Mel Purcell has stopped practicing while a waiver request is being put forth to the NCAA regarding high school classes he took in American Samoa. There is no news on the waiver request for freshman defensive back A.J. Martinez. It is likely Purcell and Martinez will redshirt.
Ticket sales up: UH announced it has sold around 24,700 season tickets this year -- an increase of 200 from last year.
"It's a positive response especially because of the pricing changes that were made," said UH athletic director Herman Frazier, referring to surcharges added to season-ticket packages.
Around the WAC: Boise State plans to try junior David Mikell in the backfield together with senior Brock Forsey. Last year Mikell was Forsey's backup at tailback; Forsey rushed for 1,207 rushing yards and Mikell scored three touchdowns on seven receptions and ranked in the top 10 nationally for kickoff returns for the second straight year.
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