Game Recap: Hawaii vs Colorado State 2018

Game Recap:  Hawaii vs Colorado State
by B.R. Battle

Photo by CBS Sports

Wow...what a game!  If you were looking for a good ole' fashioned shoot-out, then this one delivered.  This game was a true toss-up...a tale of two halves.  Hawaii dominated the first half...going up 23-7 at halftime.  Colorado State came on strong in the second half; however, it was not enough to overcome Hawaii's potent offense. 

The true gems of this game were the two quarterbacks, Colorado State's K.J Carta-Samuels and Hawaii's Cole McDonald.  Both QBs had amazing games.  Carta-Samuels threw for 537 yards (school record), 5 TDs and 1 INT.  He had an exceptional game, albeit in a loss.  Hawaii's McDonald wasn't too shabby himself.  He threw from 418 yards, 3 TDs and no INTs.  McDonald also posted a team high 96 rushing yards, adding an additional 2 TDs on the ground.  Both QBs also had 12 explosive plays a piece, which are plays of 15 yards or more.  If you love offense, this was definitely a fun game to watch. 

As far as Offense and Defense Success Ratings (OSRs and DSRs), these two teams were essentially even.  Colorado State posted a 51% OSR, while Hawaii recorded a 52% OSR.  The NCAA average is 40%, thus, both team were highly efficient on the offensive side of the ball.

In regards to the defense, Colorado State posted a 39% DSR, while Hawaii recorded a 41% DSR.  The NCAA DSR average is 45%; suggesting both teams were below average in this department.  Additionally, both teams allowed a substantial amount of explosive plays...15 for Colorado State and 14 for Hawaii.  With a lack of great defense, this game came down to who had the ball last.

All-in-all, this was a very fun game to watch.  Not a lot of defense was played; however, we were able to see two dynamic players dual for 4 straight quarters.  What more could you ask for??