As part of his training, Hawaii quarterback Stump Godfrey is learning restraint.

Godfrey has a powerful throwing arm, but is being taught "not to show it off every play."

Translation: Hard passes can lead to hard-to-make catches.

"It’s a good rule to live by," UH offensive coordinator Nick Rolovich said of Godfrey’s progress in using velocities appropriate for each situation.

"I’m learning a lot this year," Godfrey said. "This is the best time to get it down."

After transferring from New Mexico this past summer, Godfrey is required to redshirt this season. He is among several game-inactive players who will compete for starting jobs in 2012.

Kendrick Van Ackeren, a freshman who is redshirting, is the latest converted safety to play weak-side linebacker. Aaron Brown, the senior starter, and Darryl McBride, a junior, had made similar transitions.

"The majority of the time, the (weak-side linebacker) will be out of the (tackle) box," UH defensive coordinator Dave Aranda said. "It’s really important that he can run with (receivers). If he can’t, other teams will try to isolate him."

Van Ackeren was a safety at Bellevue (Wash.) High. Near the end of his senior season, he was being recruited as an outside linebacker.

UH signed Van Ackeren as a safety, but moved him to linebacker in training camp.

Van Ackeren said he studies Brown and McBride.

"It’s nice to see how they transferred (to linebacker) and realize I can do it, too," Van Ackeren said.

Ijumaa "E.J." Armstrong, also a redshirt freshman, is a contender to succeed senior cornerback Tank Hopkins in 2012.

As a member of the scout-team defense, Armstrong faces the Warriors’ No. 1 offense every practice.

"I’m learning the plays and the basic techniques," Armstrong said.

Armstrong said he has gained 10 pounds since August, and now weighs 180.

The key? 

"Rice," Armstrong said. "I don’t like rice, but I eat it. Dedication."

That’s the motto for Godfrey, who works out daily. He said he follows New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady for his football savvy, Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler for his arm strength, and former Warrior Colt Brennan for his skill and demeanor.

"Colt delivered the ball, and had fun," Godfrey said.

Pollard healed

With right wideout Royce Pollard apparently healed from knee and ankle injuries, freshman Trevor Davis moved back to left wideout.

Davis is expected to start against Fresno State on Saturday, although left wideout Darius Bright will get significant work. Bright is recovering from wrist and foot injuries.

Clapp prognosis

The new prognosis is right slotback Justin Clapp won’t be available to play for six weeks.

Clapp suffered broken ribs and a collapsed lung against Utah State two weeks ago. He has undergone more than 10 X-rays.