Hawaii Football: 3 most critical defensive players for 2018

1. Jahlani Tavai

Yes, picking Jahlani Tavai as one of Hawaii’s key players is an obvious selection. However, it doesn’t make him any less important to the team’s chances of success.

Pure and simple, Tavani is the heart and soul of the Rainbow Warriors’ defense. And this will be the final season fans get to see him in action for the team, so they would do well to make the trek to Aloha Stadium as often as possible.

The Inglewood, California native had a typical standout year in 2017, as he played in all 12 games. He led the team with 124 tackles, good enough to rank 10th nationally in total tackles and tackles per game.

On the subject of tackles, Tavani has a genuine shot at becoming the Rainbow Warrior’s all-time tackle leader by the end of his college career. With 309 total tackles entering the 2018 season, he sits 125 behind Solomon Elimimian, who currently holds the record.

The linebacker also has a chance to move up the all-time sack list for Hawaii. He recorded 5.5 last season and with a similar return this year, he can move up to fourth all-time in school history. (He enters this season in 10th place, with 15.5 takedowns.)

Overall, Tavani has an excellent opportunity to be in contention for the Butkus Award this season. Regardless, as long as he continues to produce as he did the two previous seasons, he can be Batoon’s galvanizing force in helping turn the defense around.