UH freshman defensive tackle Kennedy Tulimasealii is likely to need four weeks to recover from a partially torn MCL in his right knee.

He suffered the injury while in the bottom of a pile following a one-on-one drill in yesterday’s practice.

An MRI performed yesterday showed a sprain. All sprains involve some degree of tearing. But his right ACL was not damaged. Tulimasealii’s injury will not require surgery.

Tulimasealii, a 2013 Waianae High graduate, was in the rotation on the defensive line’s interior. Moses Samia and Saui Matagiese are the starters. Marcus Malepeai will have an expanded role as a defensive tackle. Dejon Allen, Calen Friel and Mike Andrade also will get reps inside.

The Rainbow Warriors open the season against USC on Aug. 29 at Aloha Stadium.