The Return of Manase Tonga

Many of you have been asking about the role that Manase plays on the team and how it would have affected last season, and what impact it will have this season. In the next two paragraphs I will address this in a very frank manner.

Last Season: Without question Fui stepped in, took over Manase’s role and executed that role 100%. From an execution stand point there was absolutely no drop off without Manase because Fui was so spectacular and unselfish. Fui also brought a lot of energy and excitement to the fans with his hard-nosed, all-out style of play. This was a little different than the energy Manase brings. Fui excites the fans who get the stadium pumped, which in turn pumps up the players. Manase fuels the players around him directly. Once again though I think these qualities benefit the team equally; so no drop off there. The biggest downside in my mind is the leadership presence that Manase had on the Offensive side of the ball. This is not to take away anything from Fui’s leadership, but Manase was the main constant in the transition from the John Beck Offense to the Max Hall Offense, and most players looked to Manase to really set the tone for practices and games. Manase never says much, he just goes about his business and brings the rest of the team with him. At times last year our offense was a little too arrogant and laxidasical and I believe Manase would have changed that. Number one game he would have changed? TCU. Though we may not have won that game with Manase, he would have at least made sure that our O did not get blindsided the way they did.

This Season: It is all about leadership!  I hope that Manase will step in right where he left off.  When guys come back from disciplinary time off sometimes they have a tendency to shy away from the leadership role.  I see Manase stepping in, going about his business the way he always does and keeping the Offensive Egos in check.  With him back there and with a hopefully new attitude on that side of the ball, I think we will see a more potent and capable offense this year.

-Markell Staffieri