Hunter's suspension forced shakeup on offensive line

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

University of Hawai'i officials yesterday confirmed an ESPN report that junior left tackle Wayne Hunter was suspended for the ConAgra Foods Hawai'i Bowl.

School officials had announced several times leading to the Christmas Day game that Hunter's availability was in doubt because of a back injury. Hunter did not suit up for the game, but did join teammates on the sideline.

Several people familiar with the situation confirmed that Hunter was suspended for breaking an unspecified team rule. When asked about the ESPN report, UH coach June Jones only would say, "(Hunter) wasn't going to play."

But Jones said Hunter was required to miss only one game, and that he will compete in spring practice.

Hunter's absence forced right tackle Uriah Moenoa to move to left tackle. Right tackle Ryan Santos, a third-year sophomore, made his first career start. Second-year freshman Derek Faavi, filling in for injured center Lui Fuata, started his third consecutive game.

Jones said he was impressed with Santos' play. He added that Moenoa, who has started 26 consecutive games, will move to right guard next season, succeeding All-American Vince Manuwai. Jones said Moenoa also will serve as the backup center.

The move will give Santos a chance to compete for the starting job at right tackle.

Jones said freshman offensive lineman Samson Satele, who is redshirting this season, will be in the mix for a starting job next year.

"I think we'll be pretty solid in that offensive line," Jones said. "We have a chance to add a couple of guys who can make an impact."

The Warriors lose their three starting linebackers, but Jones said some of the replacements could come from Tyrone Brown, Ikaika Curnan, Patrick Lavar Harley and Brown Faavae. Faavae, who transferred from West Virginia, also can play strong safety.

Left wideout Justin Colbert is the only starting receiver to complete his eligibility this year. Jones said freshmen Ross Dickerson and Sean Stennis will compete for starting jobs.

Furthermore: Fuata is scheduled to undergo reconstructive surgery Jan. 2 to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. Slotback Nate Ilaoa will have surgery on his injured right shoulder. ... Jones said UH's 10-4 season was as long as "my rookie year in the NFL." UH plays 13 regular-season games next year, including a school-record six on the road. Jones said he would approve of long seasons in the future "as long as we have a couple of byes in there, and as long as we don't fall off in the classroom." The Warriors did not report any academic casualties for the recently completed fall semester.