Logic would tell you, Roosevelt should keep everything the same after winning the OIA Division II title last year.
That’s not the case this season as the Rough Riders switched their offense from the split-back veer to the run-and-shoot.
If Friday’s 42-6 victory over visiting McKinley is any indication, it appears Roosevelt’s offense is just as potent either way.
Sky Ogata, who took every snap in the shotgun, completed 27 of 35 passes for 401 yards and three touchdowns against the Tigers.
“Sky, he was awesome,” said Roosevelt coach Kui Kahooilihala. “Everybody knows him to run the football in our division and this kid can throw it when he needs to. He loves to run the ball, but sometimes you have to tell him to get rid of the ball and, if he runs, you have to tell him to get out of bounds or get to the ground.”
The run-and-shoot, which focuses heavily on passing the ball, was implemented by new offensive coordinator Anthony Monteilh, a longtime JV head coach and varsity assistant at Saint Louis.
Ogata became the third Roosevelt quarterback to top 400 passing yards in a game and first since Chris Mols threw for 469 yards in a 2001 win over Kaiser. Andrew Kamanao, who threw for 449 yards in a win over Farrington in 1992, holds the school record with 481 yards in a victory over Kalani on Nov. 1, 1991.
A key newcomer is senior receiver Chase Akana, who transferred to Roosevelt after St. Francis closed its school earlier this year. Akana caught seven passes for 138 yards, including a 54-yard touchdown.
“It’s amazing being a part of this team because they’re like brothers to me,” Akana said. “They welcomed me with open arms and I’m happy to be here.”
“Chase can play in space,” added Kahooilihala. “The kid can catch the ball, he’s a good route runner. He makes a huge impact with our wide receivers.”
Seven Roosevelt players caught at least two passes from Ogata against McKinley.
“I’m happy, since I’m a receiver I like to catch the ball,” said Devin Naihe, who caught five passes for 71 yards. “Last year, it was more blocking and stuff.”
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