As football kickoff inches closer around the country, MaxPreps forecasts the top five teams in the state of Hawaii for the 2009 season.
1. St. Louis
The Crusaders have been a benchmark of pigskin in the Hawaii with 15 state titles, but none since 2002. St. Louis was the only team to topple Punahou last year, but fell to the Buff N’ Blue in a playoff rematch. With quarterback Jeremy Higgins returning at the helm, St. Louis should be potent on offense. On the other side of the ball, defensive end Moses Samia and defense back Marcus Umu return for a unit that should be improved.
Punahou, HI vs. Leilehua, HI
Punahou vs. Leilehua
Last year’s Division I runner-up is poised to win it all this year, thanks in large part to returning quarterback Andrew Manley, the returning co-offensive player of the year in the Aloha State. Manley passed for an astonishing 3,642 yards and 31 touchdowns, leading all of Hawaii in both categories. Linebacker Kalua Ellis returns on defense. He was an all-state selection in 2008.
Punahou, HI vs. Farrington, HI
Punahou vs. Farrington
Gone are superstar linebacker Manti Te’o (Notre Dame) and reliable running back Dalton Hilliard (UCLA). However, Punahou is stocked on both sides of the line and have some promising young talent that figures to plug holes left by graduation. The defending state champs have three returning all-league players on the offensive line, which should allow for a solid running back while a new quarterback emerges. The defense, with several returning all-state players, will be especially strong. Kamden Hilliard, only a sophomore, is one to watch.
4. Kahuku
The Red Raiders launched a 10-game winning streak a year ago before losing in the state semifinals to Leilehua. Kahuku will be looking to get back to the title game for the first time since 2006 after 10 appearances in the championship since 1993. Kona Schwenke, a third team all-state selection, returns to lead the defensive line. Impressive junior Ben Mamea is back at linebacker. Four starters return on offense, but new quarterback Sage Kaka will be given a baptism by fire as the team will face Punahou in week two.
5. Farrington
Farrington lost four games last season, but all to teams ranked ahead of it this season. The Governors return V.J. Fehoko, a menacing defensive end who might be the state’s best player. Three other all-state players are also back, including offensive linemen Joseph Siliga and Linden Kahana, which should help ease the loss of running back Apelu So’oalo.