Today's nationally-televised college football game between 24th-ranked Wisconsin and Hawai'i is dedicated to a departing coach who has provided inspiration and innovation through the years.

"This is for coach (Keith) Bhonapha," UH quarterback Colt Brennan said of the graduate assistant in charge of cornerbacks. NCAA rules limit GA terms to three years.

True, Bhonapha is not the only one making the farewell rounds — Barry Alvarez is stepping down as Wisconsin's coach after 116 victories in 16 seasons — but in this season on the blink, the Warriors are seeking motivation in any form.

"Keith's been here longer than me," said June Jones, who was named UH head coach in 1999, a year after Bhonapha joined UH as a defensive back. "He's a good young coach, and we hope we'll be able to get him a job in coaching."

UH defensive coordinator Jerry Glanville said: "Maybe Keith and Alvarez should meet at the 50-yard line, and shake hands, and reminisce a little bit, and head down the highway. They've both done a great job."

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.