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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Friday, December 5, 2008

Punahou vs. Leilehua by position

 •  No. 1 vs. No. 2 for state football title

Former Saint Louis football coach Delbert Tengan is an analyst for AM-1500 The Team, which broadcasts ILH and state tournament games during the season. He helped with the analysis of tonight's game.

POSITION

Quarterbacks

EDGE

Even

Punahou's Cayman Shutter has a better passing efficiency, but Leilehua's Andrew Manley has proven postseason experience, including a state title.

POSITION

Running backs

EDGE

Punahou

Buffanblu average 3.7 yards per rush, while the Mules average 1.7.

POSITION

Receivers

EDGE

Punahou

Robert Toma has the speed, as does Dalton Hilliard, and Kimo Makaula (6-3) has the height. It doesn't help Leilehua that Edieson Dumlao has shoulder issues.

POSITION

Offensive line

EDGE

Even

Both have had issues during the season.

POSITION

Defensive line

EDGE

Leilehua

Big and athletic for its size.

POSITION

Linebackers

EDGE

Leilehua

Although Punahou has all-everything Manti Te'o, the Mules have three good ones in Kalua Ellis, Alii Tuitoelau and Nate Hall.

POSITION

Secondary

EDGE

Punahou

Sees a lot of passing in their league.

POSITION

Special teams

EDGE

Leilehua

Both have dangerous returners, both get good height on kickoffs and backed by good coverage. But Leilehua might have the best punter in the state in Rico Newman. Leilehua's Maika Kunioka has nine field goals, while Punahou has kicked just two.