Freshman linebacker Benneton Fonua has been held out of Hawaii’s football practices this week because of a sprained left knee.
An MRI did not show any notable problems with his ACL.
Fonua will continue physical therapy through this weekend, and his left knee will be evaluated on Sunday, when the Warriors resume practicing. The Warriors have a bye this week, and there are no scheduled team workouts today or Saturday.
"He’s a tough guy who needs to listen to his body," coach Norm Chow said of Fonua. "We’ll give it the weekend and see what happens."
Fonua, a 2012 Kahuku High graduate, was scheduled to redshirt this season. Three weeks ago, after consulting with UH coaches and family members, Fonua agreed to relinquish his redshirt plans and return to the active roster.
He started at middle linebacker the past two games against San Diego State and New Mexico. He suffered the injury last week against UNM in a game in which he made nine tackles.
By playing in those games, Fonua forfeited his right to redshirt this season. But he would be eligible for a medical redshirt if the injury were to sideline him for the rest of this season. A medical redshirt may be awarded if an injured player does not appear in more than three of his team’s first six games of the season.The Warriors are 1-5.
"We don’t want to do that," said Chow, who is hopeful Fonua will be available for the Oct. 27 road game against Colorado State.
In the meantime, Brenden Daley, a fourth-year junior, has been practicing as the No. 1 middle linebacker. TJ Taimatuia, who moved to strongside linebacker three weeks ago, also practiced in the middle this week.
Chow praised Daley as a "nice, hard-working guy" who has struggled with a variety of ailments. Daley, who previously played at Ventura College, redshirted in 2011 after suffering a fractured foot during training camp.
The coaches had envisioned Daley as an aggressive "downhill" linebacker in this new attacking defense. Instead, Daley has been too cerebral in early games, often hesitating before attacking. Chow said the adjustment was understandable.
"I think learning the new scheme forces that," Chow said. "Now, it’s more reaction."
Daley said: "I’m definitely going to make it right for the second half of the season. I’m going to give it my all. I have no excuses. I’m right for the second half. It’s been more film, more workouts. I’m getting ready to go."
