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The Nevada defense has been the story of the team all year. Tonight though the story is positive. The Wolf Pack forced six turnovers (four interceptions and two fumbles) throughout the game and forced Hawaii to use three different quarterbacks after starter Taylor Graham got injured.
On defense Nevada was able to put pressure on the quarterback for the first time all year. Brock Hekking, the star defensive end, had arguably the best game of his career with six tackles, three sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception. His ability to bother the Hawaii quarterbacks was a main reason the Warriors could only score 9 points. The Warriors offensive line looked weak for the third time in three games this year. Although the Hawaii offense outgained the Nevada offense 376-340, it was ultimately Nevada's timely interceptions and forced fumbles that won them the game.
On offense, with starter Cody Fajardo out for the second straight week and second string quarterback Devin Combs out for the year, redshirt freshman Tyler Stewart made his first career start for the Wolf Pack and handled the offense well. He went 14 for 20 with 200 yards and three touchdowns. His favorite target during the game was tight end Kolby Arendse who had four catches for 77 yards and two touchdowns. The run game for Nevada did its job against a stout Hawaii defensive line, gaining 138 yards on 44 carries. Running back Kendall Brock played tonight after missing last week against Florida State.
Nevada takes on Air Force at home next week while Hawaii goes back home to play Fresno State.