Hawaii is expected to be without two of its most dynamic performers when the Warriors face Washington State tomorrow.

UH head coach Greg McMackin said running back/slotback Kealoha Pilares and defensive back Ryan Mouton won't play against the Cougars (2-10), with the Warriors (6-5) one win away from clinching a bowl berth.

Mouton suffered a sprained ankle in Hawaii's win over Idaho last week and Pilares continues to recover from a foot injury. Safety Erik Robinson also hasn't practiced this week while resting a tight hamstring, but could be available tomorrow.

With Mouton out, senior Desmond Thomas returns to the starting lineup at free safety, while freshman Richard Torres moves up to the first nickel back. Thomas was involved in two turnovers last week, causing a fumble that Mouton recovered and intercepting a tipped pass.

“;Desmond Thomas has to step up and he did last week, he was our defensive player of the game,”; McMackin said.

“;(Running back) Daniel Libre will step up for Kealoha and Aaron Bain at slot has been playing great. It's a tough game and guys get injured, and the next guy just has to step up. ... We don't want to hurt (Pilares and Mouton) more. “;

Mouton has started every game this season, at three different positions: cornerback, slotback or safety. Pilares missed two games with the sprained foot and leads the Warriors with seven touchdowns (five rushing and two receiving).