Friday's games
Farrington at Waianae. A lot of young talent in starting roles for both teams. Both have returning RBs, though Danny Kekoanui (Waianae) has much more experience than Apelu So'oalu (Farrington). Farrington's studs on defense will make a difference, but Waianae has a shifty, fast QB in Keoni Napierala-Rose. All things equal, home-field edge matters. Pupule says: Seariders prevail 21-19.

Leilehua at Radford. Rivalry goes back decades in this "Spirit of Freedom Bowl." Radford has a good number of big, fast athletes this season, so the Mules better be ready for a surprise or two. The Rams hid a lot of their stuff in a scrimmage last week against Nanakuli, especially after learning that Leilehua had coaches in the stands. Still, the defending state champion Mighty Mules are reloaded and have a little more of everything. Pupule says: Army boys 34, Navy boys 21.

Castle at Mililani. Another tough matchup. Castle is classically smaller, fast and tough. No different this year. The visiting Trojans have a real test tonight with Castle's no-huddle, run-and-shoot attack. If they can apply a consistent pass rush, victory is theirs. Pupule says: Trojans march home with a 21-14 win.

Kamehameha vs. Kahuku, Aloha Stadium. Still lots of kinks to work out for the new-look Red Raiders. Kamehameha, meanwhile, has been in camp, has gone through a lot of reps, far more than any OIA school. The Red Raiders are proud, but with a new offense, new QB, new defense, are a half-step behind the Warriors. Things will be different later, but for now, Kapalama Heights has the edge. Pupule says: Warriors in a thriller, 16-14.

Campbell at Roosevelt. An old run-and-shoot team against a new run-and-shoot team, sorta. Amosa Amosa played at Campbell and coached there under Darren Hernandez -- the old R&S. Then came the Wing-T, and now that Amosa is back as head coach, the Sabers are pass happy. They're bigger than the Rough Riders, but with 16 returning starters, Roosevelt is ahead of the game. Pupule says: Rough Riders in a close one, 27-21.

Pearl City at Aiea. Best garlic fried rice in town is at Aiea Bowl. Pupule says: Na Alii in a barnburner, 34-28.

Waipahu at Keaau. Former Hilo player and current Waipahu coach Sean Saturnio takes his team to the volcanic isle. Marauders are steady, Cougars coulda been champs of the BIIF last year. Edge to Waipahu, which has been more battle-tested in recent seasons. Pupule says: Marauders 26, Cougars 18.

Saturday's games
Word of Life at Nanakuli. Should be a smashmouth battle on the Leeward Coast. The Firebrands' first varsity game, but Coach Joe Onosai has been there before as a head coach (Pac-Five, 2005). Pupule says: Golden Hawks wear down the Firebrands, 23-20.

Damien vs. McKinley at Roosevelt. Tigers lack depth, but Monarchs lost two key players to transfer. Wally Aina's return debut with Damien. Pupule says: Tigers get the big plays from Tevita Woodard for a 32-27 triumph.

Pac-Five vs. Waialua. Don't underestimate the Bulldogs and Coach Lincoln Barit. They'll run more this year, and Pac-Five is in the midst of a youth movement with 39 sophomores. Pupule says: Bulldogs bit the Wolfpack 33-27.

Iolani vs. Kamehameha-Maui. Another Father Bray Classic. Raiders are regrouping but still have elusive Kela Marciel at QB. He'll prove to be the difference-maker against the hearty Warriors. Pupule says: Iolani over KS-Maui 44-35.

Kapolei at Kamehameha-Hawaii. Warriors have talent, but Kapolei has depth plus talent. Hurricane defense could be one of the best in the state, and they have a nasty streak, too, when provoked. Pupule says: 'Canes 49, Warriors 21.

Anuenue at Kohala. A rematch of last year's Anuenue victory on Oahu. Cowboys are tough at home, and proud, too. Anuenue is rebuilding, so this will be a toss-up. Pupule says: Cowboys lasso Na Koa, 25-22.

Kaimuki at Kaiser. Cougars could use more numbers, but will always be competitive with Coach Pat Samsonas and staff. Bulldogs are beefy and strong, and there's enough speed on both sides of the ball to make them a legit OIA Red title contender. Pupule says: Kaimuki 41, Kaiser 20.

Kalaheo at Maui. Mustangs are depleted and rebuilding after losing a stellar senior class. Sabers are retooling as well. Pupule says: Host Sabers edge Mustangs, 31-28.

Konawaena at Kealakehe. It's David versus Goliath when these neighboring schools meet. Waveriders have immense talent, a dynasty on the Big Island. Pupule says: Kealakehe 39, Konawaena 15.

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