The Hawaii and Fresno State football teams will have a significant personnel change for Saturday’s game at Aloha Stadium.
Neither is expected to result in a drastic change in preparation.
The Warriors will be without quarterback Bryant Moniz, who underwent surgery Monday for a fractured fibula in his right ankle.
Fresno State coach Pat Hill said “the system hasn’t changed” for the Warriors’ four-wide passing offense.
“We’re going to prepare for Hawaii’s offense the way we always prepare for Hawaii’s offense,” Hill said.
Hill said his staff has not accumulated much information on Moniz’s successor — Shane Austin or David Graves.
“Not really,” Hill said. “Just what we saw against Nevada.”
Austin replaced Moniz in the first quarter of UH’s 42-28 loss to the Wolf Pack. Graves did not play in that game.
Sunday, Fresno State announced that Randy Stewart, the defensive coordinator since 2009, would relinquish those duties immediately. He will remain on staff to help with recruiting and evaluating videos. Tim Skipper, the linebackers coach, was promoted to defensive coordinator.
“I would think they would be using the same (defensive) package,” UH coach Greg McMackin said. “It’s tough to throw in a new package.”
The Bulldogs lost to New Mexico State this past Saturday in the first of consecutive road games.
“They’re going to have a semi-short week (to prepare),” McMackin said.
Moniz probably done for UH
Although there is a possibility Moniz will be well enough for the Dec. 24 Hawaii Bowl, if UH qualifies, McMackin is reluctant to use him if it will pose health concerns and hinder his chances to audition for pro scouts in the spring.
McMackin said he stuck to that belief when he decided to hold out wideout Royce Pollard from the Nevada game. Pollard is recovering from knee and ankle ailments.
McMackin said a player’s health is more important than a ballgame.
Hansen will not play this year
Austin Hansen, who started 12 games at left tackle in 2010, is serving an NCAA suspension this year. During Monday’s news conference, McMackin said Hansen will not play for the Warriors the rest of this season or in the Hawaii Bowl.
Lutu doubtful for Fresno
Backup strong safety Leroy Lutu is iffy for the Fresno State game because of a sprained right ankle.
Lutu, who was on crutches Monday, said he suffered the injury during the first quarter against Nevada.
If Lutu can’t play this week, associate head coach Rich Miano said, Bubba Poueu-Luna or Brian Clay will be the replacement on the kickoff and kick-return units.
Kawika Borden is a front-runner to replace Lutu on defense.
“If possible, I won’t miss a game,” Lutu said. “I’m trying to get back as soon as possible.”