Pupule Pigskin Picks, Saturday's games (Aug. 22)
Posted at 11:59 AM

Saturday, Aug. 22, 2009
A Pupule perspective on matchups tonight.

No. 2 Kahuku vs. No. 3 Punahou, Aloha Stadium
Historically, Kahuku plays everyone and continues to evaluate personnel in nonconference games. That was when the Red Raiders were 80 to 100 players deep. With 64, starters might get more playing time. Punahou has a veteran offensive line -- four returning starters -- and a very green corps of skill-position players. Kahuku is in a similar position, though with a line that's a little less experienced. Pupule says: Buffanblu 23, Red Raiders 20.

No. 4 Leilehua at No. 10 Mililani
Big rivalry game to open the OIA Red West. I'll give the edge to Andrew Manley, though this is a great opportunity for the Trojan defense to show what it can do, especially with Dalaunte "Taz" Stevenson now at safety. Pupule says: Mules 27, Trojans 21.

Pac-Five vs. McKinley, Ticky Vasconcellos Stadium
The Wolfpack are a load for almost any defense to deal with, especially this early in the season. Pupule says: Wolfpack 42, Tigers 26.

Kalani at Aiea
The Falcons are building the right way, with young players who had time to develop at the JV level. Aiea, though, is older and stronger. Pupule says: Na Alii 30, Falcons 14.

Anuenue at Radford
Two programs with good talent, not a lot of numbers, and a lot of pride. Should be a close one. Pupule says: Rams 25, Na Koa 19.

King Kekaulike at Kealakehe
Na Alii are going through one of those cyclical phases after a D-II state title two years ago. Kealakehe should win this one at home. Pupule says: Waveriders roll, 35-16.

Konawaena at Hilo
Forget the Division I or II designations. The Viks are rebuilding and the WIldcats have a solid system in place. Playing at "home" will help Hilo, while the 2 1/2-hour bus ride won't help the 'Cats. Pupule says: Wildcats 15, Viks 14.

Damien at Roosevelt
Part of a doubleheader at the Ticky -- what a deal for fans -- that pits first-year coaches Punahou Aina (Damien) and Pat Silva (Roosevelt). The Monarchs have a system in place that was established by Aina's father, Wally, the past two seasons -- Punahou was linebackers coach then. Pupule says: Monarchs 25, Rough Riders 14.

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