Islanders head coach Cal Lee said Arceneaux and Withy-Allen were "even" earlier this week and it'll be a game-time decision as far as who opens against Bakersfield.

Arceneaux has the track record with 38 starts since the Islanders' inaugural season of 2002, but Withy-Allen appears to have the hot hand after leading the Islanders to a 40-37 road win last week against the San Diego Riptide — his first start since his senior year of high school.

Lee said he will consult offensive coordinator Vince Passas before making a decision.

"We're in a great situation here," Lee said. "You've got Darnell Arceneaux and Shawn Withy-Allen. You could give it to either one. You could flip a coin and you wouldn't feel like you lost anything. I feel very positive about either one of them taking the ball and leading us."

The "chosen one" will have the opportunity to forge a tie atop the West Division with a victory tomorrow night. The Islanders and Blitz have split two games this season with the home team winning both times. The teams will meet in the season finale July 31 at Bakersfield.

"It's always good to be able to control your destiny," Withy-Allen said. "Just the fact we know they're coming to our house; we have a chance to be in first place. If that doesn't excite you as a competitor then you need to go look at another profession."

Lee said there is nothing strategic about naming his starting quarterback at the last minute, but added: "If it's a problem for (the Blitz) then that's great."

Lee said Arceneaux and Withy-Allen have been supportive of each other all year and especially this week.

Arceneaux, who missed last week's game while helping out with a football camp in American Samoa, said: "For me competition brings out the best in what I can do. When you compete you get better and everyday you want to make everyone better."

Withy-Allen, a rookie, is hoping to shed the backup label after having never started a game at the University of Hawai'i from 1999 to 2002, and being on the sideline for the majority of this season with the Islanders.

"No matter where I'm at I'm always trying to battle the guy ahead of me," he said. "I'm just going to keep playing my game and it's up to Coach Lee on what he wants to do. He'll make a decision that's best for the team."

When it comes to showing emotions, Arceneaux has the upper hand. He isn't afraid to celebrate successes and fire up teammates when things aren't going well. Early in the season, he boldly guaranteed the Islanders would win every home game. Despite his best efforts, they are 4-2 at the Blaisdell.

With Withy-Allen you'll get a fist pump and high-fives for teammates. He rarely raises his voice and shows patience. He no doubt uses a similar style when working as a minister for the Victory Campus Ministries at Grace Bible Church.

"Personality-wise I think one is a little more vocal and the other one is a little more quiet," Lee said. "Looking at it they're both fairly effective (on the field)."