UH passes on former Oregon QB Masoli

By Fred Guzman

Hawaii fans were split over whether or not it would be a good thing for quarterback Jeremiah Masoli to join the football program. Masoli would have provided an upgrade at a key position.

His resume during two seasons at Oregon included a Holiday Bowl victory over Oklahoma State in 2008 and leading the Ducks to the 2009 Pac-10 title and an appearance in the Rose Bowl. But Masoli carries a lot of legal baggage, which is why he was suspended and later dismissed from the Oregon program.

Those in favor of adding Masoli, noted that he stayed out of trouble one year at St. Louis School largely because of a strong local family influences. They also noted that Colt Brennan and Davone Bess both flourished at UH after receiving second chances following legal problems of their own.

But those who opposed Masoli felt that he was going on four chances and worried about the light his presence would cast on UH. Valid concerns, no doubt.

The debate became moot when UH politely told Masoli, no thanks. Rumor has it that Masoli may end up hooking up with LaTech, a WAC rival that will play at Aloha Stadium on Oct. 2. That showdown, if he indeed lands at LaTech, will trigger another debate over whether UH did the right thing by snubbing Jeremiah Masoli.