FRESNO, Calif. >> A college quarterback’s life can be hit or miss.

In Saturday’s 14-13 victory over Fresno State, Hawaii quarterback Dru Brown absorbed a momentum-changing hit.

With UH trailing 13-7 with 1:20 to play, Brown threw incomplete on fourth-and-6 from the Fresno State 18. But linebacker James Bailey hit Brown a stride after the pass was released, resulting in a roughing penalty. That gave the Rainbow Warriors 9 extra yards and extended life. Two plays later, running back Steven Lakalaka scored the decisive touchdown.

“I kind of saw (Bailey),” Brown said. “I was looking at my read. As soon as I threw it, I knew I was going to get hit.”

Of the sudden impact, Brown said: “It kind of just happens. I can’t really explain it to people who have never been in that situation. You have to sit in there and go against what your mind thinks and deliver the ball. That’s what quarterbacks are made for. It was definitely helpful getting that penalty.”

Prior to that drive, the offense had struggled to find a rhythm. But coach Nick Rolovich never wavered from his trust in Brown.

“I don’t know if he struggled all that much,” Rolovich said. “We struggled to run the ball. He’s not doing (that). He made some really big plays down the fourth quarter. There were some big-time reads and throws he made.”

On UH’s final drive, which began with 3:33 to play, Brown fed off the enthusiasm of the offensive linemen.

“We all trust Dru,” offensive guard Leo Koloamatangi said.

Brown said: “I knew we were going to score. I think that every drive, as long as we execute. I think that most of the game, we could have executed better on offense. But that’s on me. I have to do a better job.”

Two weeks earlier, Brown was pulled for three series to allow second-year freshman Aaron Zwahlen to get some reps in a one-sided loss to San Diego State. Last week, the plan called for Brown to sit out a couple of series in the second half of what would be a blowout loss to Boise State. But Brown pleaded to remain in the game. He did, and led UH on two second-half scoring drives.

“These are my guys,” Brown said following Saturday’s game. “This is my offense. I knew we were going to get it done. It was just a matter of when. That last drive showed what we can do. As long as we practice hard, and come out fast and with energy, we can be a really explosive team.”

Brown said it was admittedly difficult losing three in a row entering Saturday’s game. “As a quarterback, you’re judged on wins and losses,” Brown said. “For us to come out with a win no matter how crummy I played, it’s a good feeling. It gives us confidence moving forward.”

He also said he will continue to try to improve.

“That’s how I was raised,” Brown said. “That’s what I’m about. I’m never going to quit. That’s the type of person I am. I thank my parents for that.”