How does Kahuku apply to that numbers theory?

The main reason is numbers. Most schools have less than 1,200 enrollment, and most teams have less than 40 players. Compare that to the numbers on Oahu, where the top teams have 50, 75, 90 players.

In addition, the wet weather on the Hamakua Coast makes it extra difficult to develop a balanced offense. When half or two-thirds of your games are in mud, eventually as a coach you have to submit to the reality that your team needs to prepare for that kind of weather.

The best teams in BIIF history were balanced teams, or pass-first teams. Konawaena's best team ever during the 1980-91 dynasty came to Oahu the week before a Prep Bowl and nearly upset Saint Louis. Both teams were stacked; Saint Louis in the midst of its dynasty under Cal Lee and Konawaena had the Kona Coast's best players under Jim Barry, long before Kealakehe opened and split the talent pool.

Break down the programs statewide by enrollment, and BIIF teams would be highly competitive. Hawaii Prep has an enrollment of roughly 350, but its team this year would beat plenty of opponents in D-II and quite a few in D-I.

It's about population centers. Numbers. Coaching, tradition and physical traits factor in, too. But the main reason is sheer numbers.