Hawaii fell just 40 yards short of the biggest comeback at the highest level of college football.

Now, after Sean Schroeder led Hawaii to more touchdowns in less than one half than the offense had scored all season previous, it might seem obvious that he should regain the starting spot.

But could it be that Schroeder is simply a lot more effective coming off the bench? Remember, doing so he completed eight of 12 passes against Oregon State, and he led UH on its only touchdown drive against Nevada.

Schroeder has fought his way back and, after the spectacular showing against Fresno State, he deserves to start against San Jose State this Saturday.

But what if previous starter Taylor Graham is healed and ready? He was just starting to get the feel for things when he hurt his nonthrowing shoulder at Reno, Nev. Well, he shouldn’t rush back now, that’s for sure.

At some point, however, coach Norm Chow will have to choose between the junior and the senior — that is, unless Schroeder stays as hot as he was against Fresno State … in which case you have a left-handed, late-blooming Colt Brennan.

As for freshman Ikaika Woolsey, he had his moments, but it’s pretty clear he needs to work on things like not staring down receivers and not taking sacks. In the meantime, how about a wildcat package or some reps at running back? Too bad he’s just a tad small for tight end, since UH has had so many of them injured.

Saturday’s was the most encouraging loss I can think of ever while watching UH play football for nearly 40 years. A game UH also ended throwing the ball into the end zone on the last play with a chance to win is close: at Alabama in 2006.

That second half against Fresno State is the best UH has looked in 16 games under Norm Chow.

Even though it was still a loss it was a win because of what the players can derive from it — a ton of confidence and belief in each other. This expands to units, because the defense kept getting the ball back and the offense kept cashing in … finally.

Former Warriors running back and current TV analyst Nate Ilaoa was encouraged by the extra effort he saw from many corners.

"The way they were battling for each other and fighting for every yard after the catch was real nice to see," he said. "That type of effort is what helps win games and also attracts fans to come watch. In previous games and the first of (Saturday) it almost seemed someone was waiting for the other to make a big play."

Some folks out there still say this is not an improved team from last year. That’s only because they want to see it that way. Even if one of those Hail Marys had come down in the hands of a UH player, the difference couldn’t be clearer.

If you’re still thinking UH football is hopeless, I don’t know what to say. Maybe this will help change your mind, or at least open it a bit: Hawaii has played its three common opponents from last season 76 points closer.

Or just go back and look at the tape of the second half Saturday.