With two left-handed quarterbacks, Hawaii’s left tackle is no longer the so-called blind side.
But 10 days into training camp, there still is no visible starter at that position.
Blake Muir and Mike Milovale shared the left tackle’s reps on Friday. Leo Koloamatangi and Frank Loyd Jr. have practiced there. Jordan Loeffler, who has missed a week of practices because of an injury, will join the mix next week.
"It’s still wide open," head coach Norm Chow said of the competition at left tackle.
Muir, who redshirted as a freshman in 2011, exited spring training atop the depth chart. He requested — and received — permission to train in Australia for an extended period this summer.
Muir gained 24 pounds (he is now 298) and a greater comprehension of the Warriors’ pro-set offense. Offensive line coach Chris Wiesehan said Muir "accelerated his learning curve."
"He did a lot in the offseason watching film on the huddle system that we have and using the technique that we sent him," Wiesehan added. "It showed up in his drills. He can bend and move and strike. He was tentative last year because he was unsure. Now that he’s more sure, he can be more physical. … At the same time, he knows he has to compete for his job."
Muir has been bothered by hip discomfort. Thursday night, he had flu-like symptoms. But overall, he said, "it’s only been a week, but I think the (extra) training (in Australia) was beneficial."
Milovale was cleared to play this week after his junior-college transcripts were confirmed.
"It’s starting to come along," Milovale said. "I got some work with the first team. I still made mistakes, but I’m working hard."
Koloamatangi is adjusting to the college level. After signing with UH in February, he began an intensive weight-training program. Koloamatangi, who is 6 feet 5, gained 20 pounds and now is 270.
"They told me to gain good weight," he said. "They told me to be physically prepared and be ready for the mental aspects."
In spring training, the Warriors were down to seven healthy offensive linemen.
"We brought in some new players," Wiesehan said. "We have more competition, which brings out the best in everyone."
