University of Hawaii Warrior Football

In a decisive move last Tuesday, Greg McMackin was hired as UH's new head coach. Among fans and the state, this was the popular move. I did mention that Norm Chow would be a great hire, and in an unusual coincidence, Chow was fired from the Titans the same day that interviews began. However, it was too little too late, since among the many applicants, only George Lumpkin and McMackin were interviewed. McMackin was immediately offered the job, and he subsequently accepted.

Chow would have been a good back up, and might have been better for the long term. He would have instantly removed the 'system offense' stigma, and would be able to operate in the Hawaii community, being a Punahou graduate. His resume certainly is the most impressive. Chow has since accepted the job as offensive coordinator for UCLA under Rick Neuheisel.

What the McMackin hiring does do that a Chow hiring would not, is maintain continuity. The defense is the same, and the offense is more or less the same. Many of the coaches would remain, allowing for a smooth transition out of the June Jones era. Also, this helps the recruiting situation immediately, since most of the kids getting recruited are coming into a situation that isn't a complete 180 from what they were expecting. Even Brian Morris interviewed in an early entry is still interested in coming to Hawaii. So for the short term McMackin was the obvious choice. No rebuilding required, and any risks from doing so.

Ron Lee will now take over play calling duties as the offensive coordinator. What you will see more of however, is a balanced attack. The passing game is the same, but the ratio will feature more running plays. Ron Lee was McMackin's OC when he was HC at Oregon Tech where they led the nation in offense.

Cal Lee gets promoted to Defensive Coordinator and maintains a nice local recruiting pipeline. Already Geordon Hanohano of Saint Louis School and Haku Correa of Damien Memorial School, who were recruited to UH, have committed.

Another valuable coach who will remain is Rich Miano, who has been Hawaii's strongest recruiter outside of June Jones.

The rest of the staff will be fleshed out over the course of the next few weeks. Apparently it may include former UH Quarterback standout Nick Rolovich.

New AD Too
Herman Frasier's contract was bought out, and is interviewing for the Miami job. Carl Clapp is the interim Athletic Director, who has already shown the expeditiousness to hire McMackin, and turn his attention to the facilities and the schedule. It seems like they may remove the 'interim' tag if Clapp continues to show the competence and fortitude to man the position, since he has been asked to hold the position indefinitely and there has been no signs of an aggressive search for a replacement.

Commitments
In addition to the Defensive Linemen mentioned above, cornerback Lewis Walker, from Judge Memorial High in Salt Lake City, accepted a Warrior scholarship offer.

All-State Saint Louis offensive lineman Tui Tuiasosopo verbally committed to UH.

And Damien safety Christian Vasconcellos who previously committed, maintained that he will still go to UH.

Greg McMackin has reportedly shown interest in the UH head coaching job. While it's not the splash of a Norm Chow, it would be a good hiring. He's both a coaches coach and a player's coach. While soft spoken, he's gotten his unit motivated with juicy locker room material through media fodder. It's likely that the team may shift to a more balanced one as he's a defensive coach, while maintaining the run & shoot which Ron Lee would run. The only time Greg McMackin has been a head coach was at Oregon Tech. The rest of his career he's been a Defensive Coordinator and Associate Head Coach.

Other coaches who have thrown their names out is former Michigan State Coach, John L. Smith, citing his 18 year coaching experience. That experience is no doubt invaluable, however his connections to Hawaii are minimal. If he were to succeed here, he needs to flesh out his staff with people who understand the politics in Hawaii, and listen to their input.

Frazier Down for the Count
After being touted as a hero by former UH President Evan Dobelle, Frazier is officially out as UH Athletic Director. Too little too late after the following

- Botching the football Schedule for 2007
- Dragging on the hiring process for Basketball Head Coach, hurting recruiting in the process
- The Sugar Bowl ticket Debacle

among other things.

UH Seeks $400K from June Jones
Because of a clause in his contract, the university is seeking $400,008 for not fulfilling the terms of his contract. Maybe they can use that money for a new head coach. Or renovating the new head coaches office.

What a difference a few days makes. The University of Hawaii and the entire state has gone from the highest of euphoric highs with the football program, and tumbled completely down. There's a sense of being just sucker punched in the gut. Let's get one thing out of the way, any anger felt towards June Jones is unwarranted. In light of the situation, you can't really blame him for his decision. Apparently, he was promised many things, in return for the success he could bring to the program. June held up his part of the bargain, the athletic department and the university did not hold up theirs. If anything they took for granted his extreme love for Hawaii and the players. In essence it's like a wake up call that things need to change in Hawaii. Like they would never take June seriously until he finally left. And now the pressure is on. The state population is in an uproar, and Herman Frazier is going to be the first sacrificial lamb. Hopefully June Jones departure will make those responsible take the football program more seriously.

The Replacement
When I first heard of the distinct possibility that Jones was out, two names came to mind. Norm Chow and Cal Lee. Norm is the obvious winners choice. His resume and Hawaii ties make him the perfect choice. However he's the expensive choice because of that resume. The cheaper alternative is Cal Lee, and would provide the smoothest transition out of the June Jones era. I thought of bringing Mouse Davis back, but he's awfully close to the end of his career. He also doesn't have that same connection that June had with the people of Hawaii. A few more names have come up, several recommended by June Jones himself.

Dick Tomey
June is high on Tomey, but I don't know about him. He's got experience for sure, but his more recent work isn't exactly jaw dropping.

Norm Chow
I honestly believe Norm's the best man for the job. He can continue the high powered offensive legacy, and he has the local ties to know how to operate in this state. Sure the red tape is a real hindrance, but hopefully June's sacrifice will make things easier for the next head coach. What may even make Norm an even better Coach than June is the fact that the 'system' moniker gets automatically removed. Norm Chow runs a pro-style offense, and that stigma would not be held over Hawaii's head when it came to asking for respect in the BCS, Heisman votes, and in getting players to the NFL. Like I said earlier however, the price will be the biggest obstacle. Chow is already making 2 million for the Titans, the final offer to Jones was not even close.

Duane Akina
I believe he's an excellent candidate. He's been in a high position for a big program in Texas. That should help in recruiting the fertile Texas area. He's also local which I can't emphasize enough how important a credential this is.

Cal Lee
The positives with Cal Lee is that there would be a little continuity with the program. The big plus is that I think he's the best candidate to keep the Hawaii High School Players home. The only bad thing is that he wouldn't be the big splash hire that would alleviate the sting of losing June Jones. That's no fault of his own though, but he would be under immense pressure.

Kevin Gilbride
His ties to Hawaii isn't as strong, but he's got a nice resume. His only ties is that his son played for Hawaii and he had June Jones on his staff with the Chargers before June took over. He's coached in the NFL, his ties to June Jones would help with the transition. His offense is a pro-set.

Dirk Koetter
He was not recommended by June Jones and has little or no ties to Hawaii but he's got a pretty good resume. He coached Arizona State last year when Hawaii defeated them in the Hawaii Bowl. He's also a big reason for the resurgence of the Jaguars success as their offensive coordinator. Seems like a long shot though.

On the Bobby Curran show this morning, Bobby interviewed defensive line coach Jeff Reinebold. What a great attitude he has. He would be the biggest long shot, but his love for Hawaii and the kids would make him a really good dark horse candidate.

It was a painful ending for all of us. Most of all to the players and a tearful Colt Brennan. This will never take away from what a great season this was. For me, they won when they were able to break the barriers to get into the BCS. This team was special and will be the greatest Hawaii team of all time.

Mahalo Warriors.

Thanks for the great season.

Aloha,
DB

Congratulations to Samson, who makes one of the first team All American teams at Offensive Guard.

2007 FWAA All-America Team

Also amidst all the national championship talk, Hawaii Representative Neil Abercrombie will propose a bill that would declare the Bowl Championship Series as unconstitutional and call for a playoff system.

BCS Unconstitutional

uhwarriors.net predicts Heisman winner and runner ups.

1. Tim Tebow
2. Darren McFadden
3. Colt Brennan
4. Chase Daniel

If somehow Colt Brennan wins, it will be because of a lot of Closet Brennan fans, and an 11th hour change of heart for voters. Since as it stands, the media has been pumping Tebow in our ears for the last few weeks. Even the mention that he's a sophomore isn't really an argument. It's used as a qualifier for the Tebow fans to temper their unabashed infatuation with the Read Option system Quarterback.

The biggest proponents of Brennan are Skip Bayless, J.A. Andande, Peter King, Michael Wilbon, Neal Everett, Bill Plaschke, and whatever ESPN play by play team had the privilege of calling a Hawaii game. They may have been skeptical, but they left believers.

Great points why people won't vote for Colt, and why they're full of it.
A Vote For Colt Brennan is A vote for America

As if Herman needs any more ammo to his already weak Non-Conference scheduling which had fans calling for his firing, the UH Athletic Director returns 4,000 of the Hawaii allotment of tickets to Georgia. The underlying reason was that there was no belief that Hawaii could sell the tickets.

Colt Brennan will not win the Heisman trophy, so let's call this for what it is, a free trip for Brennan to New York. Here's why it's flawed. Voters will make up their own agenda to pick who they want to be the Heisman winner. Then they will pick and choose whatever negative reasons to dock who they don't like. Last year, the choice was Troy Smith. The reasoning? Because he was the so called best player on the best team. Ohio State was undefeated at that point so he won the award. Never mind the unbelievably ridiculous stats Colt put up, including the 58 touchdown passes. Okay, so let's try to go by that criterion this season. Colt Brennan is the best player on the only undefeated team. Now the choice is Tim Tebow, who had lost three times this season, but voters conveniently ignore that, sighting his 'unbelievably good' statistical season. Come on now, these stats are nothing compared to what Colt did last year, but we change the criteria so we can select him? Media like to sight the 'system' which results in Colts numbers, and conveniently ignore the fact that Tim Tebow's touchdowns are a product of a 'system' that allows him to do that.



The truth is there's a bias that will simply disallow people to accept that Colt was deserving of the award both last year and this year. The few people who actually have watched Colt Brennan are sold, he can play, and is deserving of it. So really the people who admit to not seeing Colt Brennan and touting McFadden or Tebow as their choice are admitting that they have not done their due diligence to actually study what Colt has done and use arguments of Andre Ware and David Klingler and Timmy Chang to dock him. Hello! Does this make sense to anyone? You've seen Andre Ware and Tim Chang, so you don't have to look at Colt Brennan? Can you say, lazy?


Skip Bayless is a believer. I think the 'gimmicky' offense argument is cute. Last I check, Tebow's offense is pretty gimmicky.

Can we shut up with the Tim Chang comments? This is a little too convenient, at least people in Hawaii understand that Tim also set the NCAA all time interception record. Colt throws the ball a ton, but he doesn't throw many INT's.



Amazing! Another person who only had to watch Hawaii play in person, and they're a believer. Let's hurry up and get the ignorance off the air. It will certainly help Hawaii.


Thank you Bill Plaschke, at least he's consistent with the criteria. The BCS recognizes Hawaii. Why doesn't the Heisman voters?

Tom Cowlishaw: "I can't get over the 51 touchdowns"
Well I can't get over the 63 from Colt last year.

Jay Marrioti: "I love how June Jones says [Tim Tebow's] not that accurate." Then spouts off his numbers.
June should know. Colt's accurate when everyone knows he's going to throw it. The defense has no idea if Tebow will throw it or not. That really is a product of the system he's in. Believe this though, Tebow could not make the throws Colt could. Nor would his accuracy be that high if he had the same pass/run ratio that Colt has.

Then there's the whole conference arguments. If Hawaii had an SEC schedule blah blah. Which is retarded. They're making excuses for the Tebow and McFadden losses. When clearly, in any other year, those losses would have left them out of the Heisman conversation.


Colt talks about his Heisman selling points, and makes a great statement about being called a 'system' quarterback. It has burned Hawaii QB's and yet they stay quiet and go about their business. Finally June Jones turns the table on the national darling and shows them what they've been doing to Colt all along.

June Jones explains himself and gets a lot of flack for his comments on Tim Tebow at yesterday's official Media Presser.

I did some national shows today. I may get some more (heat) from that. My intent on what I said was not to demean Tim Tebow in anyway. I said this on ESPN Today The media picks the Heisman Trophy winner. No longer will it go to a guy like it did years ago on a 3-8 team. It just doesn't happen. My point was that my quarterback has been labeled a `system quarterback' for three years. He is the best passer in college history. He is. There is no question about it. Tim Tebow is in a system. The last quarterback who was in that system, if you had asked me about Alex Smith, he was a system quarterback I thought when we were watching him. Talented. But I didn't see him in an NFL passing (system). Colt Brennan plays in an NFL passing game. You can dial it up and see that it is not a system. Tim Tebow's system is a college system. He is a great quarterback who'll probably win a national championship. He's competitive; he's all those things. But a lot of his stuff comes off little dives, fades, things he is not going to do in the National Football League. That's my point. I think Jake Locker (from Washington) is a great athlete. I'd love to be a part of coaching a kid like that. But I said what I said and I mean it. I said this too on national radio today and probably take some heat from it. (his phone rings) Look, here is an 847 area code right now. On ESPN GameDay, they are promoting Tim Tebow to win the Heisman, which he'll probably win. My quarterback is the best player, trust me. But they (ESPN GameDay) said, and we watch at the hotel and listening to it for last six weeks, they said as they were going off the air 'Tim Tebow has accounted for 53 touchdowns in one season, the most in college football history.' I said you guys just told a lie. Last year, my quarterback threw for 58 touchdowns and ran for another (five). I got my point across. You guys ripped me a knew one yesterday, and I'm going to say it again and stand by what I said, my quarterback is the best college football player in America. I did not add Tebow's team has three loses or is not in a BCS game. I wish I had that info, why didn't you call me? The bottom line is I irritated them because they knew I was right. But I did get a whole bunch of emails and calls from Florida State people that said 'Thanks for finally saying that.

Make no mistake his comments have ruffled many feathers, especially in Gainesville. Interestingly it's his intent, so he can get some publicity for his QB.

I would be very surprised if he is not among the finalists. Hopefully, my comments yesterday will get him some publicity. I'll be honest with you. It would be a long shot (if Brennan won) because of the (national) media attention giving to other players. He not only deserves to be there, but he deserves to win it. Just look at what he has done.

If you look at the underlying reasons however, June is 100% correct.
- Tim Tebow will win the Heisman. Correct.
- Colt Brennan is a better QB than Tim Tebow. Correct.
- Tim Tebow is more of a system QB than Colt Brennan. Correct.

Let's clarify on the last point. Usually, the 'system' moniker is used in a derogatory manner to deduct points from a college quarterback's ability to translate his game to the NFL. Has the run & shoot affected players jump to the NFL? Yes. However it's a system that in part or whole is or was in the NFL. Warren Moon and Jim Kelly were the most successful Quarterback in the system. There are variations of it run by the Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots and the Detroit Lions today. The read option however? It simply does not exist in any way shape or form in the NFL. Run first, pass second quarterbacks do not exist successfully in the NFL today. Even quarterbacks that have that stigma like Vince Young, and before him Michael Vick, are forced to pass first. Therefore it's true, Tim Tebow is more in a 'college system' offense than even Colt Brennan. What about Alex Smith? Well, without pointing to the evidence of a lack of a success, Alex Smith was in the Urban Meyer offense tweaked for his passing, much like Tim Tebow's predecessor. Tim Tebow is in the read option in 'run-first' mode. Ask any NFL people, Tim Tebow, Pat White, and Dennis Dixon are products of 'college' systems. Colt Brennan will make it into the NFL and have an easier time then they will making the step to the pro game.

Colt Brennan talk on PTI

Yesterday, significant mention was made among the national media about Hawaii in the national championship game. I forget precisely where, but it was a frequent topic. I'm pretty sure it came up on the Dan Patrick show. Callers constantly brought it up on various sports radio shows. A night show from sporting news radio had it, maybe David Stein or Tim Montgomery. Today on ESPN.com, complaining about the BCS hysteria, Gene Wojciechowski made reference this to the Warriors:

"And don't even get me started on why the only undefeated team in the country, 12-0 Hawaii, is completely ignored in the Jan. 7 equation."

Also in ESPN's sportsnation voting on the Sugar Bowl Poll, there's this question: If Hawaii defeats Georgia in convincing fashion, should the Rainbows share in a split national title?

As of this writing, 51.1% of voters agree, that Hawaii should get a National Championship. It does kind of make sense because they'd be the only undefeated team, and they would answer any questions about being able to beat quality competion.

Another poll shown on ESPN shows that Hawaii has the biggest gripe of any team with regards to the National Championship Game



On SI.com's college football homepage this morning there's a prominent picture of Colt Brennan with this caption:

If Colt Brennan and the Warriors knock off red hot Georgia, expect Hawaii supporters to campaign for a national championship.

Look, no one in Hawaii is crying foul about being left out of the championship discussion, but it is interesting to see all these people up in the mainland make a case for Hawaii. Hawaii fans and the team are happy to be able to play and will make a game of the Sugar Bowl, so anything else is a bonus. A share for a National Championship? Maybe not, but it's a nice thought.

Speaking of Dan Patrick, tune in tomorrow on 1500 AM, as June Jones will be on. DP says it must hear radio because JJ is so opinionated. You'll hear some clarification about the Tim Tebow Comments, and why Colt Brennan is better than some NFL QB's already.

See more videos courtesy of UHBows regarding National Championship Talk

BCS: OK with Ohio St./LSU title game?

J.A. Adande is the biggest supporter even sporting an Aloha shirt. But he follows logic from an earlier entry I made, that you can't have a double standard which accepts Ohio State and excludes Hawaii.

Non-BCS team in national title game?

Hawaii could have been in the NC game had there schedule been tougher.

BCS: Who got the worst deal?

We'd like to introduce unbelievably athletic QB prospect Brian Morris, who has shown great interest in the Hawaii football program. On the film, he displays impressive accuracy, nailing the corner of a soccer goal post consistently. His throwing motion is eerily similar to Colt Brennan's lightning quick sidearm and the ball zips out with a nice tight spiral. Brian has the bonus of exceptional athleticism to his prototypical size. Unfortunately he hasn't received much attention because of circumstances that prevented him from starting at Quarterback in High School. At any rate, after getting to know Brian, his intelligence, his enthusiasm for the program, and his love for the game make him a perfect fit for Hawaii. We had a chance to ask him some questions about himself and his interest in Hawaii, so here's our interview.



Tell us about yourself Brian. Where are you from? Where are you now?

My name is Brian Morris, and I'm 19 years old. I am from Folsom, California, a small city outside of Sacramento. I went to school at Folsom High School. Our school has been known for it's high powered offense, as we ran a spread passing attack. I accepted an academic scholarship over the summer to attend University of California, Davis, and am in the highly touted Agricultural and Environmental Sciences division.

What drew you to the University of Hawaii Warrior football program?

Coming from a high powered offense such as Folsom's, I discovered that I belong in that kind of offense. I had been looking for a school to attend with a competitive program that would allow me to develop my skills, yet still provide me with the chance to make the team. I noted that June Jones has made very daring decisions in his recruiting after taking such recruits as Colt Brennan (a JC transfer) and Davone Bess (recruited from Juvenile Hall), who have in fact become two of the best players on the team. I like having the opportunity to show my skills rather than my heritage, and June Jones seems to be my best chance.

What are your impressions of the team?

Incredible. The team has been so impressive. When I heard at the beginning of the 2007 season that Colt Brennan could throw as many as 70 TD's, I was hooked. The mere fact that he threw 10 against Fresno in 2006 was mind boggling. I think the biggest thing to note in terms of progress is how Greg McMackin has improved the defense in his tenure at UHM. Very High hopes for them in the future.

You weren't highly recruited out of High School because of certain circumstances, what were those circumstances?

I am a multisport athlete, playing 4 varsity level sports while in high school. Not until my mid-junior/senior year did I start playing football. While at our summer camp, coaches were blown away with my tenacity and dedication to play. This earned me the spot as a starting outside-linebacker. I also played most special teams and worked behind the experienced QB. Because of my position (LB) I was subjected to incredible hitting, and suffered a concussion in the third week of the season. While being out of duty with my injury, I worked on my strength and football knowledge and eventually played slot receiver. I can say that during this time I became such an incredible player, but the season prevented me from starting at QB. I now suffer no side effects of my injury and am very healthy. If developed from a system such as June Jones, I feel as though I could develop my skills and become an efficient passer.


Wow! You're quite the athlete. What other sports did you participate in?
What are some of your measurable? 40 time, squat, vertical, etc...

My Favorite!! As I said, I played 4 varsity sports in high school. I participated in Cross Country as a freshman, until I started swimming. As a freshman, I received Varsity Honors and was a standout. As a sophomore, I stuck my nose to the grindstone swimming, 7-9 practices a week, putting in sometimes 8 miles a day. This earned me the Sac Joaquin Section, and JV MVP. I also participated in 3 triathlons that year, placing 18th overall in my best one. I felt as though I burnt out of swimming and needed a change. So I decided to play football with weeks before the season started. The coaches were amazed with my athleticism and speed. I credit it to swimming and club water polo. Since that time I have grown into my self filling in my lanky 6'4" frame with 215 pounds. I ran track that year and recorded a 22'8" jump in only my third meet. In terms of tangibles:

40 yard dash: 4.55
Vertical: 37"
Sparq: 87.30
Squat: 485 lbs
Bench 260 lbs

Have you ever been to Hawaii? If yes, what were you're impressions?

I have been in Hawaii once as a tourist. I was 13 at the time, and I still remember it to be the best trip of my life. Surfing is one of my hobbies and the ocean feels at home to me. I feel as though I could fit in perfectly at Hawaii. My friends are always annoyed to hear me talk about Hawaii, and they know that I always splurge on eating pineapples. June Jones and his development of men, really attracts me to his program and Hawaii.

What can you bring to the Hawaii Warrior football program?

Versatility. I played A LOT of scout team in high school, and served almost every position. I played quarterback, running back, fullback, tight end, wide receiver, slot receiver, corner back, free safety, strong safety, outside linebacker, middle linebacker, rover, and defensive end. I know the techniques for each position and how schemes work really well. I would say that even though my playing time is limited my football IQ is through the roof. I understand the ideas behind systems and what the coaches are trying to accomplish. Also, I bring enthusiasm. I don't know anyone who would fight harder than me to be a part of this program.

I think we could've used you on the scout team as Jack Locker this past week. Anything else you'd like to tell the fans?

I would just like to gain support for participating at the University of Hawaii in their athletics department. It would mean so much to me to be a warrior. If you need any feedback and would like to help out, please contact me at brian_morris_7@yahoo.com or on my youtube account BTMorrisUCD. I hope to get some more videos up soon. Thanks everyone for your support.

Mahalo Brian, Aloha

The Warriors land a league high 11 on the first team with 5 on offense, 5 on defense, and 1 special teamer. There's one on the second team. Colt Brennan is the Player of the year, June Jones is the Coach of the Year. Also, the UH offensive skill players were presented with a special award after Colt inquired about sharing any individual accolades with his receivers.

WAC Commissioner Karl Benson said, “Colt asked me in the locker room after the Washington game on Saturday night that if he was selected the player of the year, was there a way the WAC could share the award with his ‘boys’. Once again, Colt impressed me with his unselfishness, and I told him I would do what I could. On the flight back to the mainland, I thought of this way to pay tribute to Colt and these four great receivers for the season each had and how they each contributed to the Warriors’ perfect 12-0 regular season.”

First Team Offense
QB - Colt Brennan
WR - Davone Bess
WR - Ryan Grice-Mullen
OL - John Estes
OL - Hercules Satele

First Team Defense
DL - David Veikune
DL - Mike Lafaele,
LB - Solomon Elimimian
LB - Adam Leonard
DB - Myron Newberry

First Team Specialist
PK - Dan Kelly

Second Team Offense
WR - Jason Rivers

Top Individual Awards
Offensive Player of the Year – Colt Brennan, Sr., QB, Hawai‘i
Defensive Player of the Year – Marcus Riley, Sr., LB, Fresno State
Freshman of the Year – Colin Kaepernick, QB, Nevada
Coach of the Year – June Jones, Hawai‘i

Special Award
Offensive Unit of the Year – Hawai‘i
Davone Bess, Jr., WR
Colt Brennan, Sr., QB
Ryan Grice-Mullen, Jr., WR
C.J. Hawthorne, Sr., WR
Jason Rivers, Sr., WR

Hawaii will play Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. The Rose and Fiesta Bowls had an opportunity to select Hawaii as an at large team, but the Rose passed and went with the Big 10 tie-in Illinois which I thought was a poor option. It didn't even have to be Hawaii, they could've chosen a better team like Missouri or Florida. Also, the Fiesta, which actually sent officials to see Hawaii, added West Virginia to Oklahoma, despite Pat White's injury. Missouri who finished higher than WVU and Kansas got the biggest snub with no BCS.

The Orange selects Virginia Tech and Kansas.

As for the national championship game, do you believe in third chances? Because LSU got one and will face default no. 1 Ohio State.

Back to the Sugar Bowl it's two completely different perceptions. You've got Georgia who feels like they've been shafted and feel like they deserve a national championship game, and then you've got Hawaii who's just happy to be there. Couldn't have more polar opposites.

Final BCS Standings

It looked like Ryan had a chance to return the tipped interception for a touchdown. Could it have helped their BCS case? Probably. Some may have looked at the spread which was at 14 and let that affect their decision in polls.

So why didn't Ryan do it?

"The game was over. I didn't want to risk anything."

Now there's a statement of putting the team ahead of individual accolades. This was a nice follow up of last weeks taking a knee to end the game to show Hawaii's classiness.

It also gave the opportunity to end the game with ball in the hands of the guy who largely made this miraculous season possible. Many questioned Brennan's decision to return to Hawaii for his senior season. That last knee punctuates it loud and clear that Brennan made the right decision.

Props to Ryan Mouton.

What was that ST sticker the Warriors sported on their helmets? In the ESPN telecast, Brennan and others held their helmets up and pointed to the initials.

They wore it in honor of Washington Redskin safety Sean Taylor, who died after sustaining a gunshot wound.