Is Hawai'i Bound for the MW Championship Again?

Head Coach Nick Rolovich has moved on but a talented team led by former Arizona State coach Todd Graham looks to make waves in 2020.

The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors have been on an impressive trajectory over the last several years under Nick Rolovich, culminating in a 10-5 campaign in 2019 with a trip to the Mountain West Championship game. Hawaii ended up losing for a second time that year to Boise State, but this marked the first ten win season since 2010 and first ever appearance in the MW Championship game. They also defeated two Pac 12 opponents and long-time foe BYU in their bowl game. With Rolovich departing to Washington State, former Arizona State head coach Todd Graham now leads the program with returning QB Chevan Cordeiro at the helm.

Hawaii opened the season last week with a surprising 34-19 beatdown of conference rival Fresno State. The Rainbow Warriors racked up over 300 yards rushing which is mind blowing for a traditionally air raid program! This win looks even better after Fresno State demolished Colorado State last night, 38-17. Fresno QB Jake Haener threw for over 300 yards on CSU, begging the question, is Hawaii's defense that good? Todd Graham is well known for his defensive acuity so to have his mind combined with the traditional Hawaii air raid could be a dangerous combination in the Mountain West. Chevan Cordeiro's experience, leadership, and dual threat ability make Hawaii a legitimate contender in the MW this year once again. Expect Hawaii to have another big night tonight as they visit Wyoming, despite the Cowboys being favored -1.0 by Vegas.