Hawaii Football Final

KHON2 Sports
  • 5.0 (33)
  • Sports
  • Updated Weekly

Every Sunday night during the University of Hawaii football season, Hawaii Football Final's Rob DeMello & Rich Miano will talk shop on the latest news surrounding the Rainbow Warrior football team and preview their upcoming opponent.

  1. 6d ago

    Rainbow Warriors lose at Wyoming in the Battle for the Paniolo Trophy as UH remains winless in Mountain West

    The University of Hawaii football team’s frustrating road loss at Wyoming was the focus of the latest episode of Hawaii Football Final, a Hawaii Sports 2Night production hosted by KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello and former Rainbow Warriors player and coach Rich Miano. The Rainbow Warriors fell to Wyoming 27-10, remaining winless in Mountain West play and dropping to 1-3 overall and 0-2 in conference play. DeMello and Miano broke down a mistake-filled performance in which Hawaii struggled to establish momentum and was unable to capitalize on opportunities. Trailing 13-3, Hawaii put together a nine-minute, 74-yard drive to open the second half, but the possession ended with a failed fourth-down attempt. The Rainbow Warriors defense responded with a quick three-and-out, but a penalty on the ensuing punt gave Wyoming new life. Hawaii was penalized for having two players wearing No. 8 on the field at the same time, resulting in an automatic first down for the Cowboys. Wyoming then turned the extra opportunity into a 99-yard touchdown drive, delivering a pivotal blow to Hawaii’s comeback hopes. The Cowboys finished with 183 rushing yards, while Hawaii was flagged for eight penalties in the game. The loss also kept the Rainbow Warriors from bringing home the Paniolo Trophy and extended their winless start to Mountain West play. During the episode, DeMello and Miano also answered viewer-submitted questions in the “HFF Mailbox” segment and looked ahead to what’s next for the Rainbow Warriors. Hawaii Football Final premieres Sundays at 7 p.m. on the KHON+ app, available through Apple TV, Roku and Fire TV. A television rebroadcast airs Mondays at 10:35 p.m. on KHON2. An extended version of the show is released Sundays at 7:30 p.m. on major podcast platforms, including Spotify.

  2. Sep 21

    Rainbow Warriors associate head coach Chris Brown in studio for bye week edition ahead of Wyoming game

    The University of Hawaii football team may have been idle on the field over the weekend, but discussion surrounding the Rainbow Warriors continued on the latest episode of Hawaii Football Final.KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello was joined by Hawaii associate head coach and linebackers coach Chris Brown to break down the Rainbow Warriors’ bye week, preparations for Saturday’s road game against Wyoming and answer viewer-submitted questions during the show’s popular “HFF Mailbox” segment. The episode also featured the 2026 Hawaii football team’s pregame entrance video, which is shown before home games at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex. The cinematic production includes the voice of legendary UFC announcer Bruce Buffer and was created by UFC as a gift to the program through Brown’s relationship with the Las Vegas-based organization. Hawaii Football Final is a production of Hawaii Sports 2Night and premieres every Sunday at 7 p.m. on the KHON+ app, available on Apple TV, Roku and Firestick. A television rebroadcast airs Mondays at 10:35 p.m. on KHON2. An extended version of the show is released each Sunday at 7:30 p.m. on most podcast platforms, including Spotify. The Rainbow Warriors return to action Saturday when they travel to face Wyoming.

  3. Sep 14

    Alejado plays through pain, Uiliata throws touchdown pass, while the defense forces three turnovers in Hawaii's win over New Mexico State to secure first victory of the 2026 season

    The University of Hawaii football team is finally in the win column.The Rainbow Warriors earned their first victory of the 2026 season Saturday night, holding off New Mexico State 29-19 in a physical three-phase battle at the Ching Complex. The victory was the focus of the latest episode of Hawaii Football Final, a Hawaii Sports 2Night production hosted by KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello and former Hawaii player and coach Rich Miano, an 11-year NFL veteran. Hawaii jumped out to a fast start, scoring the first 16 points of the game. Running back Devon Rice found the end zone twice as the Rainbow Warriors built a 19-13 halftime lead. New Mexico State answered early in the third quarter, tying the game on a fumble return for a touchdown. The Aggies’ momentum was followed by a frightening moment for Hawaii when quarterback Micah Alejado absorbed a devastating hit. The quarterback stayed in the game and finished with 346 passing yards, continuing to demonstrate the toughness that has become a defining part of his young career. Hawaii’s lone touchdown pass came from Tama Uiliata, who connected with Frank Abreu on a fourth-down scoring play to give the Rainbow Warriors a late boost and help seal the victory. The Hawaii defense also came up big, forcing three turnovers, while kicker Sean Olvera-Harle converted three field goals as Hawaii leaned on all three phases to secure its first win of the season.The 29-19 victory moved the Rainbow Warriors to 1-2 on the season and gave the team its first win of 2026. On Hawaii Football Final, DeMello and Miano broke down the win, examined the key plays and performances, answered viewer-submitted questions in the “HFF Mailbox” segment and looked ahead to what’s next for the Rainbow Warriors. New episodes of Hawaii Football Final air Sundays at 7 p.m. on the KHON+ app, available on Apple TV, Roku and Firestick. The show is rebroadcast Mondays at 10:35 p.m. on KHON2.

  4. Sep 7

    UNLV wins fourth straight over Hawaii, Rainbow Warriors fall to 0-2 on the season

    The latest episode of Hawaii Football Final, a production of Hawaii Sports 2Night, breaks down the University of Hawaii football team’s 21-6 home-opening loss to archrival UNLV. KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello is joined by analyst Rich Miano, a former Hawaii player and coach and 11-year NFL veteran, to examine another frustrating offensive performance by the Rainbow Warriors and look ahead to what’s next for the team. Hawaii’s offense struggled to find a rhythm for the second consecutive game. After managing only limited production for much of its season opener at Stanford, the Rainbow Warriors struggled from start to finish against UNLV. Dropped passes, penalties and inconsistent pass protection contributed to an off-target night for quarterback Micah Alejado, who completed just 42% of his passes. While Hawaii’s offense struggled, the Rainbow Warriors defense kept the Rebels within reach for much of the game. UNLV had just 14 points through 55 minutes before breaking the game open late. Running back Jet Thomas delivered the decisive play, sprinting 50 yards for a touchdown to put the Rebels in control. Thomas finished with 143 yards on 20 carries. The victory extended UNLV’s winning streak over Hawaii to four games and allowed the Rebels to retain the Island Showdown trophy. The loss dropped the Rainbow Warriors to 0-2 on the season and provided plenty for DeMello and Miano to discuss, including questions submitted by viewers in the “HFF Mailbox” segment and a preview of what lies ahead for Hawaii. Hawaii Football Final premieres Sundays at 7 p.m. on the KHON+ app, available on Apple TV, Roku and Fire TV devices. A television rebroadcast airs Mondays at 10:35 p.m. on KHON2. An extended version of the show is also released Sundays at 7:30 p.m. on most major podcast platforms, including Spotify.

  5. Aug 31

    'Bows have rally for the ages denied in 2026 season opener at Stanford

    The latest episode of Hawaii Football Final, a production of Hawaii Sports 2Night, breaks down the Rainbow Warriors’ season-opening 37-27 loss to Stanford and looks ahead to what’s next for Hawaii. KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello is joined by Rich Miano, a former University of Hawaii player and coach and 11-year NFL veteran, to analyze the Warriors’ near comeback in the Bay Area, answer viewer questions in the “HFF Mailbox” segment and preview the team’s upcoming matchup. Hawaii struggled to find its footing offensively early against the Cardinal, punting on eight of its first nine possessions, including six three-and-outs. The Warriors trailed 14-7 at halftime and 23-7 entering the fourth quarter before mounting a furious rally. Defensive standout Kona Moore helped spark the turnaround with 10 tackles, including two for loss, as Hawaii’s defense gave the offense an opportunity to get back into the game. The Warriors then scored 20 consecutive points to take their first lead of the afternoon. Local products Blaze Kamoku, Kaikai Carvalho and Tama Uiliata combined for 16 receptions, while quarterback Micah Alejado finished with 260 yards passing. Alejado connected with De’Von Rice on a 29-yard touchdown pass to give Hawaii a 27-23 lead with four minutes remaining. The comeback, however, unraveled in the final 1:41. Stanford running back Micah Ford posted his third touchdown rush of the game to put the Cardinal back in front before Punahou graduate Tevarua Tafiti recovered a 31-yard Alejado fumble for touchown to seal the victory. Stanford finished with a 37-27 win, dropping Hawaii to 0-1 to open the season despite the Warriors’ fourth-quarter surge. Hawaii Football Final airs Sundays at 7 p.m. on the KHON+ app, available on Apple TV, Roku and Fire TV. A television rebroadcast airs Mondays at 10:35 p.m. on KHON2. An extended version of the show is also released Sundays at 7:30 p.m. on most major podcast platforms, including Spotify.

  6. Aug 24 ·  Bonus

    2026 Rainbow Warriors season preview

    The wait is over. The University of Hawai‘i football team opens the 2026 season Saturday on the road against Stanford, and Hawai‘i Football Final is getting fans ready for kickoff with a special quick preview episode featuring KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello and former Rainbow Warrior player and coach Rich Miano. After an offseason filled with excitement and high expectations, Miano breaks down what makes this year’s team different and why he believes the Rainbow Warriors have the leadership and chemistry to pursue lofty goals in 2026. “I think the leadership,” Miano said. “When I talk about 2007 being arguably the greatest season in Hawai‘i history, it wasn’t because it was the most talented team. This team does have talent and you can see the athleticism. But what it has when I talk about leadership is you look at a guy like Jamih Otis, Elijah Palmer, Micah Alejado, Cam Barfield, and there are other leaders as well.” Miano also pointed to the continuity within the coaching staff as another key factor heading into the season. The Rainbow Warriors return their coordinators, allowing the team to build on the systems, terminology and techniques established a year ago. “The Braddahhood has really developed that belief in the coaching staff,” Miano said. Miano believes Hawai‘i is positioned to build on last season’s success, which included nine wins and a Hawai‘i Bowl championship. The Rainbow Warriors also have recent history against Stanford and other current Pac-12 opponents to draw from. Hawai‘i opened last season against Stanford and closed the regular season against California. “What they’re doing in almost every aspect of this football program is headed in a positive direction,” Miano said. “I’m anticipating it and I’m expecting a Mountain West championship or at least competing for that.” The full Hawai‘i Football Final season preview dives deeper into the 2026 Rainbow Warriors, including the expectations surrounding quarterback Micah Alejado, the team’s returning leadership and what it will take for Hawai‘i to compete for a Mountain West championship in its first season in the conference. Hawai‘i Football Final is a Hawai‘i Sports 2Night production hosted by DeMello and Miano, a former UH player and coach, 11-year NFL veteran and UH Sports Circle of Honor member. The new season of Hawai‘i Football Final premieres Sunday, August 30 at 7 p.m. on the KHON+ app, available on Apple TV, Roku and Firestick. Each episode is also available on demand following its premiere, with a television rebroadcast Mondays at 10:35 p.m. on KHON2. Episodes are also available on demand at KHON2.com and YouTube, with an audio version available on Spotify and most other podcast platforms. Hawai‘i opens the 2026 season against Stanford Saturday at 1 p.m. Hawai‘i time. For continuing coverage of the Rainbow Warriors throughout the season, stay with KHON2 Sports on air and online.

    2026 Rainbow Warriors season preview

  7. 12/29/2025

    'Bows co-captain Zhen Sotelo in studio following epic Rainbow Warriors Hawaii Bowl victory over California

    The latest episode of Hawaiʻi Football Final, a Hawaiʻi Sports 2Night production, looked back at one of the most memorable moments in University of Hawaiʻi football history, a comeback for the ages in the 22nd Hawaiʻi Bowl. KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello was joined by Rainbow Warriors senior offensive lineman and co-captain Zhen Sotelo as the show revisited Hawaiʻi’s 35-31 victory over California on Christmas Eve, a nationally televised thriller that capped an unforgettable season in Mānoa. Hawaiʻi trailed 21-0 in the first half before digging deep across all three phases to mount a stunning rally. Freshman quarterback Micah Alejado, named Mountain West Freshman of the Year, played through heavy contact to throw for 274 yards and three touchdowns. Hawaiʻi Bowl MVP Pofele Ashlock hauled in 14 receptions for 123 yards and two scores as the Warriors outscored the Golden Bears 35-10 down the stretch. The defining moment came with 15 seconds remaining. Trailing by three, Hawaiʻi faced sudden adversity when Alejado was knocked out of the game after a late hit. Backup quarterback Luke Weaver was called upon to deliver in the game’s biggest moment, and did just that, dropping a 22-yard go-ahead touchdown pass to senior receiver Nick Cenacle. The play, quickly etched into Hawaiʻi football lore, sealed the Warriors’ first Hawaiʻi Bowl victory since 2010 and completed a comeback that will be remembered among the program’s greatest moments. Head coach Timmy Chang, in his fourth season, closed out a 9-4 campaign that saw Hawaiʻi bookend the year with wins over ACC opponents Stanford and California, further signaling the program’s resurgence under his leadership. On Hawaiʻi Football Final, DeMello and Sotelo reflected on the emotional weight of the victory, the belief inside the locker room while trailing by three touchdowns, and the confidence the team had in Weaver when he stepped into the huddle for the final play. The episode also featured the “HFF Mailbox” segment, answering viewer-submitted questions, and looked ahead to what’s next for the Rainbow Warriors following a season that reignited excitement around Hawaiʻi football. Hawaiʻi Football Final premieres every Sunday at 7 p.m. on the KHON+ app, available on Apple TV, Roku and Firestick. A television rebroadcast airs Tuesdays at 9:30 p.m. on KHON2.

  8. 12/22/2025

    Hawaii Bowl game week for the 'Bows vs. California

    The University of Hawaiʻi football team’s postseason return took center stage on the latest episode of Hawaii Football Final, as KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello was joined by ESPN Honolulu and KHON2 analyst John Veneri to break down the Rainbow Warriors’ upcoming Sheraton Hawaii Bowl matchup and the major storylines surrounding the program. Hawaiʻi is set to make its 15th bowl game appearance in program history when it faces California on Christmas Eve. The matchup brings added intrigue, as Cal will be led by interim head coach Nick Rolovich, who returns to the islands to face his former University of Hawaiʻi teammate and current Rainbow Warriors head coach Timmy Chang.Chang, recently named an AFCA Regional Coach of the Year, is aiming to guide Hawaiʻi to its ninth victory of the season. Both teams have shifted into bowl game preparations with full game-week practices underway.A major focus of the discussion centered on the head coaching matchup between Chang and Rolovich, whose relationship dates back 25 years to their arrival on UH’s lower campus as quarterbacks competing for the starting role. Both eventually earned their opportunities and went on to leave lasting legacies in the program, adding a unique layer to the upcoming showdown. The quarterback storyline extends onto the field as well, with both teams led by left-handed quarterbacks from ʻEwa Beach. Hawaiʻi will be guided by Mountain West Freshman of the Year Micah Alejado, while Cal counters with freshman All-American Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. While the quarterbacks share similar roots, DeMello and Veneri discussed how each presents different challenges within their respective offensive schemes. Roster movement in the modern college football landscape was also a key topic. Alejado recently announced he will return for the 2026 season after re-signing with the program, a significant development for the Rainbow Warriors amid the era of NIL and the transfer portal. However, Hawaiʻi will be without Alejado’s top receiving target, Jackson Harris, who has departed the program with plans to enter the transfer portal.DeMello and Veneri weighed the importance of retaining Hawaiʻi’s quarterback of the future while also addressing the impact of roster turnover as the Rainbow Warriors prepare for their bowl appearance. Hawaii Football Final airs every Sunday at 7 p.m. on the KHON+ app, available on Apple TV, Roku and Firestick, with a television rebroadcast Tuesdays at 9:30 p.m. on KHON2. An extended version of the show is also released each Sunday night at 7:30 p.m. on major podcast platforms, including Spotify.

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
33 Ratings

About

Every Sunday night during the University of Hawaii football season, Hawaii Football Final's Rob DeMello & Rich Miano will talk shop on the latest news surrounding the Rainbow Warrior football team and preview their upcoming opponent.

Information

  • Creator
    KHON2 Sports
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    115
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © KHON2 Sports
  • Show Website
    Hawaii Football Final

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