Moniz could return for bowl if Hawaii qualifies

Hawaii quarterback Bryant Moniz said he will undergo surgery today to repair a fractured fibula in his right ankle.

He has been told the usual recovery period is between four and six weeks, opening the way for a possible return for the Dec. 24 Sheraton Hawaii Bowl, if the Warriors qualify.

The Warriors need to win at least two of their next three games to clinch a winning regular season and earn the accompanying berth in the Hawaii Bowl.

"I have to hope for the best," Moniz said. "We have to wait to see how the recovery goes."

Moniz suffered the injury during a first-quarter scramble against Nevada at Mackay Stadium.

"My shoe got stuck in the turf," Moniz said. "I tried to slide, and it didn’t give. I don’t think anyone hit me. I’d rather get hurt being cleaned out by somebody than the turf taking me out."

Moniz’s right leg was fitted for a splint and medical boot, which provided stability during Sunday’s flight to Honolulu.

"(Saturday) night was hard, but I accepted it," Moniz said. "It is what it is. God has a plan. I have to wait and see."

Offensive coordinator Nick Rolovich said Moniz will be missed for his leadership, understanding of the four-wide offense and "inspiring individual efforts. He extends plays. He takes it upon himself to do whatever he can do to move the ball down the field. He does a lot of things that don’t show up on film."

Shane Austin, also a fifth-year senior, replaced Moniz and played the rest of the game.

Offensive coordinator Nick Rolovich said Austin and sophomore David Graves will split reps as the No. 1 quarterback this week.

"We’re going to go with whoever can help us win," Rolovich said. "I don’t think it’s a matter of age or experience. We need to win."

A starting quarterback probably won’t be announced until Saturday, when the Warriors play host to Fresno State.

"They both have to prepare to play," Rolovich said. "The one who doesn’t start is one play away from playing. It would be a mistake to not prepare as a starter."

Rolovich said Cayman Shutter, another sophomore, will be promoted to No. 3 quarterback. Kevin Spain, a freshman, is No. 4.

"Cayman has been around the offense more," Rolovich said. "He has a high IQ. He can throw the ball."