Rolovich starting QB Friday

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

Nick Rolovich today was named the University of Hawai'i's starting quarterback for Friday afternoon's nationally televised football game against 18th-ranked Fresno State at Aloha Stadium.

UH coach June Jones made the announcement after this morning's practice at the UH grass field.

"I was going to be ready anyway," Rolovich said. "It's another chance to go out there and do something."

Rolovich, a senior, has started the past three games — all victories — in place of Tim Chang, who is recovering from a sprained right wrist.

Jones made the decision based on Chang's effectiveness in practice. "I watched him again today," Jones said. "I didn't talk to him. I didn't ask him (about his throwing wrist). He wasn't 100 percent yet."

Chang's right wrist was swollen this morning, although he competed in passing drills.

"It's been like that for a while," Chang said. "It's preventing me from doing some things."

Jones said Chang will be available in an emergency situation. "Certainly, if we need him, I'll put him in the game," Jones said, noting the order is now Rolovich, Chang and Jared Flint.

Jones said Chang has not been displaced as the permanent starting quarterback.

Jones also said it is doubtful that safety Nate Jackson, who suffered abrasions in a motorcycle spill yesterday, will play Friday.

If Jackson cannot play, Robert Grant will start at free safety.

When the Warriors go to the scheme using five defensive backs, Hyrum Peters will play nickelback. Peters missed the past two games because of a pulled hamstring. He played nickelback last season, but has been used exclusively at cornerback this year.