A win is a win...
One of the ultimate cliches but still very appropriate as the Warriors survived a mostly lackluster offensive performance to defeat FCS member Northern Iowa, 27-24, last night.
Going into the season, if told that a 1 and 2 record would include 2 one-possession losses to middle-tier Pac-12 opponents I would react with a lot of enthusiasm. Looking at the reality of the results I am not totally "sold" on this year's team yet but that may be a reflection of the conditioning from the past decade-plus Rainbow Warrior/Warrior teams who have emphasized offensive productivity over defensive prowess.
I think if viewed from the perspective of Dick Tomey's "preserve our right to punt" philosophy of game management this team becomes much more palatable than going in and expecting point-a-minute offense that has been vogue in Aloha Stadium pretty much since 1999.
The Warriors chance of success this season lies more in the hands of DC Kevin Clune and Special Teams Coordinator Chris Demarest than it does in the "learn as you go" play-calling of OC Jordan Wynn.
This week's first road trip to Boulder will be a crucial test for the Warriors and the path to victory seems to lie in the hands of the defense and special teams and that change in perspective may make for more enjoyable viewing.
BTW, is the game on TV? That answer is for another post...
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