Fun time is finished, now it’s show time

By Dave Reardon and Paul Arnett
dreardon@starbulletin.com
parnett@starbulletin.com

NEW ORLEANS » As Georgia loosened up a bit yesterday, Hawaii tightened its collective chin strap.

The Warriors enjoyed Wednesday and Thursday nights without curfew. By yesterday, lethargy caused by jet lag or Bourbon Street revelry were no longer valid excuses -- as if the latter ever was.

"It's time to draw down and focus on the game," junior defensive end David Veikune said. "After two days, (defensive coordinator Greg) McMackin said after that stop messing around and partying."

Yes, the Warriors know they're playing in the biggest game of their lives tomorrow when they take on Georgia in the Sugar Bowl.

"Everybody's serious today," senior captain and defensive tackle Mike Lafaele said. "A little intensity and kick to our step. We can't wait 'til Tuesday."

Neither can another of the three captains, starting left guard Hercules Satele.

"It's been a long week; long practices and we are just ready for the game. We have been ready for the game ever since we arrived here in New Orleans," Satele said. "It's been a long week for us and we loved it over here, but it's time to get down to business."

Kicker's delight

UH's Dan Kelly said he likes kicking indoors.

"It's so much easier because you don't have to worry about the elements. Field goals are like a dream," Kelly said. "I told Coach (June) Jones I want to be drafted by an NFL team that plays in a dome.

Let's go see LeBron

The Georgia football team did a little bonding Saturday night as they spent the evening watching the New Orleans Hornets knock off the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Redshirt freshman running back Knowshon Moreno said watching LeBron James play basketball was everything he and his teammates expected it to be, although the Cavs, fresh off a big win at Dallas, didn't play particularly well.

"I could tell at one point he was going to get hot," Moreno said of James' slow start. "You could see it on his face. He was getting a little bit upset. It was definitely a good time just getting out and seeing a little basketball.

"I love basketball. It was the first time I got to see LeBron, so it was great. I didn't wear any of my Nets stuff (Moreno hails from New Jersey). It was great being out there with the team and all."

Georgia head coach Mark Richt decided to stay home with his family. He had thought about going out to bowl or maybe take in a movie, but instead watched some bowl games on TV.

From the area

William Monteilh, the father of UH safety Keao Monteilh, was born in Levau, La., a town between New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

"I've been away a long time," said the elder Monteilh, whose family moved from this area when he was "4 or 5" years old.

Keao Monteilh is not expected to play tomorrow due to a midseason shoulder blade injury.