Warriors’ Purcell
questionable for
Florida Atlantic game

The junior defensive end is recovering
from a sprained ankle

Hawaii junior starting defensive end Mel Purcell has been evaluated by the UH training staff as questionable for Saturday's season-opening game against Florida Atlantic at Aloha Stadium.

Purcell suffered a sprained right ankle toward the end of Saturday's practice. He had just returned to full participation after a left foot injury Aug. 19.

Defensive line coach Vantz Singletary said he believes Purcell will be ready to play in Saturday's game.

"It looked like someone stepped on his foot during the 2-minute drill, but Mel was all right," Singletary said. "I think it's OK. He won't do everything (in practice), but he should be ready to play."

If Purcell can't play, UH's starting defensive ends will likely be juniors Kila Kamakawiwo'ole and Tony Akpan.

Two other defensive starters, senior cornerback Abraham Elimimian and senior outside linebacker Paul Lutu-Carroll, did not practice Saturday. Elimimian had a sore neck, and Lutu-Carroll a knee he sprained early in training camp. Also, senior safety Leonard Peters, battling to keep his starting position, participated on a limited basis with a bruised shoulder. All are expected back to practice this week in time to play Saturday.

On offense, junior slotback Nate Ilaoa and senior running back West Keli'ikipi are expected to miss the game as they continue rehabilitating injured knees.

Senior receiver Britton Komine has missed considerable time with a tight hamstring, but will likely be ready to start.