Warriors sniff out fake punt

As the Hawaii staff suspected, San Jose State coach Dick Tomey had a surprise in store on special teams, attempting a fake punt on the Spartans' first possession of the third quarter. But the Warriors stuffed the play for no gain, with Jameel Dowling and John Fonoti combining to stop Coye Francies.

Hawaii's kickoff unit held San Jose State to an average of 18 yards on four returns. Punter Tim Grasso averaged 38.2 yards on four punts, killing two inside the San Jose State 4.

Kicker Dan Kelly connected on his first attempt, a 37-yarder in the second quarter. But misfired on a 55-yard attempt in the fourth.

Mixed reviews on third downs

Hawaii worked on third-down conversions for much of its bye week, pitting the offense and defense in competitive drills.

The Warriors entered the week last in the nation in third-down coversions at 15 percent. They had converted just five chances in the first three games and matched that number last night, finishing 5-for-14, but just 2-for-7 in the second half.

Lightsy has happy homecoming

San Jose State backup offensive lineman Steve Lightsy was thrilled to play against some of his former prep teammates.

His journey from Kahuku to Fresno City College and San Jose State came full circle when he returned home last night and played a key role in the Spartans' victory over Hawaii.

“;It's a tough game playing against Hawaii at home,”; Lightsy said. “;Words can't even say what it's like to come here and win.”;

Pollard steps in for injured Lane

When junior wide receiver Malcolm Lane suffered a concussion on the Warriors' first drive of the game, it was up to redshirt freshman Royce Pollard to pick up the slack.

Lane gained 12 yards on a pass from Inoke Funaki on the first offensive play, but admittedly stayed upright trying to break tackles longer than he should have and suffered a hit to the head from a San Jose State player.

“;I was just out of it, I was dizzy and out of it,”; said Lane, who was told he had a concussion. “;I feel OK right now. Pollard stepped in and caught two passes for 30 yards—but he fumbled on his second grab, leading to one of six Hawaii turnovers.

Also injured last night was defensive lineman Rocky Savaiigaea, who had been recovering from a torn triceps over the first few weeks of the season. He played late in the game but left early in the fourth quarter, holding his arm.

Afterward, the junior from Aiea had his arm in a sling.