Blaze might miss the UNC game

About how Blaze's injured hamstring might cause him to miss the UNC game, JJ said:
"If he's not ready to go, I'm just going to hold him (from the game). We've got a tough couple of road games after this one, and we've got to have everybody available." (HA)

HA Note: "If Soares is unavailable to play this week, Brad Kalilimoku will start at strongside linebacker. UH's base defense employs three linebackers. But defensive coordinator Greg McMackin said the Warriors have four No. 1 linebackers — Soares, middle linebacker Solomon Elimimian, weakside linebacker Adam Leonard, and Kalilimoku."


About whether or not Blaze will play in the UNC game, GM said:
"If it's close, we're not going to play (Soares). I don't know that he's ruled out, we'll know more (today). If a guy doesn't practice ... We don't want to hurt him for the season. You always miss a guy like Blaze, but we've got a lot of guys, we've rolled those guys since spring as four starters. We're blessed with some good guys behind them." (HSB)


About Kalilimoku stepping in for Blaze, GM said:
"If one guy is out, the next guy will step up. That's the way we are. That's the name of the game." (HA)

HA Note: "McMackin praised Kalilimoku, who has played all three linebacker positions and strong safety during his UH career."


Praising Kalilimoku, GM said:
"Kalilimoku is outstanding. (Linebacker coach) Cal Lee has done a great job with him. Kalilimoku is an outstanding hitter who can run. He gives you speed, and he'll hit you. He's a smart player." (HA)