Another day, another challenge for Hawaii football player Shane Austin.

During Wednesday’s practice, Austin was used at quarterback, holder and, for the first time, wideout.

“If I had to go to lineman tomorrow, I’ll do that,” Austin said, smiling. “I’ll do whatever gives this team the best chance to win.”

Austin had hoped that would be at quarterback, where he made the second start of his five-year UH career against Fresno State last Saturday.

But Austin exited after two series, with the Warriors trailing 17-0. On his final drive, Austin guided the Warriors to the Bulldogs’ 31.

“We were driving the ball down,” Austin said. “Guys were making catches. In this game, it does come down to points. As a quarterback, the responsibility is on you. Whether it’s your fault or not, the quarterback has to take the responsibility. I have to take it. If we’re not getting points, I take it on myself.”

David Graves replaced Austin, and rushed for a touchdown and threw for two more. Graves was named the No. 1 quarterback for the final two games of the regular season.

“The way I see it, God has a plan for me,” Austin said. “Whatever opportunity I have, I’m going to give it my best. I have to surrender to the ultimate plan from the big guy upstairs.”

Head coach Greg McMackin said Austin needs to remain prepared.

“He’s one snap away from being in there,” McMackin said. “He’s a good quarterback.”

Austin said: ”I just want to go to a bowl game. This is my last year. There’s no reason to throw in the towel.”

The Warriors (5-6) need to beat Tulane on Saturday and Brigham Young on Dec. 3 to qualify for the Dec. 24 Hawaii Bowl.

“I’ve been here 41⁄2 years, and I’m 0-3 in bowl games,” Austin said. “The goal is to get to a bowl game again.”

Ready to take center stage

Kody Afusia is ready to take over middle ground.

With London Sapolu and Matagisila Lefiti completing their UH football eligibility next month, Afusia is positioned to become the starting center in 2012.

“I’m making sure I’m ready whenever,” Afusia said.

Afusia, who was raised in California, has played center since youth football. Earlier this season, he was moved to guard.

“It was a lot different,” Afusia said. “I had the center tell me the calls.”

When Lefiti moved to guard, Afusia was elevated to No. 2 center behind Sapolu.

Afusia is 6 feet 2 and 312 pounds. His goal is to trim to 305 pounds for the start of spring training in April.

“I’m doing what I can,” he said. “I make the most of all my reps.”