With game week preparations in full swing, Hawaii quarterback Micah Alejado was back in uniform at practice ahead of Saturday’s matchup at Arizona.
Alejado, who is dealing with an ankle injury, participated in individual drills on Wednesday. He remains considered as day-to-day but is expected to play against the Wildcats.
If Alejado is unable to go, junior college transfer Luke Weaver has been taking first-team reps. Weaver, a former All-American at Modesto Junior College, threw for more than 5,300 yards and 44 touchdowns in two seasons with the Pirates.
“As a number two quarterback, that’s the name of the game,” Weaver said. “Coach has done a great job keeping me ready, making sure I get reps with the guys. A lot of it is mental reps, so if my number is called, I’ll be ready.”
Weaver added that his faith and experience have prepared him for the moment.
“I’d like to believe that God has a reason for everything,” he said. “Those years of experience gave me a lot of maturity to handle the emotional and mental pieces of the game.”
The quarterback room which also features Dermaricus Davis has leaned on each other during Alejado’s recovery.
“We’ve got one of the coolest quarterback groups I’ve ever been a part of,” Weaver said. “We hang out outside of football, we support each other, and Micah’s been helping me from the sidelines. It’s really collaborative, which is great.”
Kickoff between Hawaii and Arizona is set for Saturday at 4 p.m. HST. The game will be televised on TNT and carried on radio by ESPN Honolulu.