Nerdpod: Receivers v3.0

It’s the opening week of the OIA Division I playoffs, OIA D-II regular season is still in session, ILH is still battling for playoff positions, KIF and BIIF nearing the playoffs. And only the third installment of Nerdpod WRs. Some additions to the list that I wish I could’ve added in previous editions. Only so many hours in the day and I just haven’t been drinking as much coffee as usual. But here goes and, yes, previous nerdpodded receivers have been updated. The era of the forward pass continues to entertain us, and though we may not have as many super-elite pass catchers and the depth of quality receivers may be a smidge less, it’s still up there. The wishbone is not making a comeback anytime soon.

FYI: No, this isn’t really about real football. Not totally. There is always a WR out there who gets less than two looks per game, but is a hellacious blocker on a run-first team, and his value is not measured in numbers. In fact, some of these pass catchers might not even be the best route runners on their respective teams. So this is, as always, just about geeky stats. Period. Enjoy.

Andrew Valladares, Mililani
Measurables: 6-0, 180, So.
Crunch this: 6 games — 24-334, 2 TD; Rush 1-4, TD
Yards per catch: 13.9
Yards per game: 55.7
Game by game / Passcode (rushing statistical values):
vs. Saint Louis 8/6, cancelled
vs. Kaiser 8/13: Rec 2-53, TD (32). ¥13.3
vs. Castle 8/20: Rec 4-40; Rush 1-4, TD. ¥8.4
vs. #7 Farrington 8/27: Rec 2-8. ¥2.8 + $5.0 = ¥$7.8
vs. #8 Kapolei 9/5: Rec 5-35; Pass 0-1-0-0. ¥8.25 + $5.0 = ¥$13.25
@ Nanakuli 9/9: DNP
@ Kailua 9/23: Rec 6-107, TD (22); KR 89 TD. ¥32.7
@ Leilehua 9/30: Rec 5-91. ¥14.1
To date: ¥$89.55 / ¥$14.9

The skinny: (Oct 7) The numbers for Valladares are not potent, but his ability to make clutch catches on third downs plus his return production make him a very valuable part of the Trojans. If we had full special teams statistics that would be appreciated and posted. Valladares is a difference-maker in field position when he breaks off one or two punts for 20-40 yards, or returns a kickoff deep.

X factor: Most defenses will game plan for him, so his value isn’t always about reception numbers.

Chyson Morgan, Nanakuli
Measurables: 5-11, 160, Sr.
Crunch this: 6 games — Rec 21-463, 7 TD; Rush 32-143, TD
Yards per catch: 22.0
Yards per game: 77.2
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. Waipahu 8/5: DNP
vs. Aiea 8/12: DNP
vs. Leilehua 8/27: Rec 3-79, TD (30); Rush 6-78, TD (10). ¥30.7
vs. Kailua 9/2: Rec 5-142, TD (79); Rush 4-40. KR 79 TD. ¥38.2
vs. #7 Mililani 9/9: Rec 1-3; Rush 12-28; Pass 1-10-0-(-5). ¥1.35 + $5.0 = ¥$6.35
@ #6 Farrington* 9/17: Rec 4-98, 2 TD (54, 76); Rush 7-(-1); Pass 5-12-0-88, TD (30). ¥34.2 + $5.0 = ¥$39.2
@ Castle 9/23: Rec 4-86, TD (26); Rush 3-(-2). ¥18.4
@ #4 Kapolei 9/30: Rec 4-55, 2 TD (9, 24); Rush 4-8; Pass 1-2-0-21. ¥22.3 + $5.0 = ¥$27.3
* Ticky Vasconcellos Stadium (Roosevelt)
To date: ¥$160.15 / ¥$36.7 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) WOW. I’m not sure at this date if Morgan was injured in those early games, but over a six-game span, he was close to brilliant. He racked up 27 value points or more in three of those games. Only Mililani limited him to a single-digit value game. I know it sounds way too geeky, but as a measuring stick, having a value equation helps in seeing what a player does at the skill position, and this guy has extensive skills from WR to QB to ball carrier. And he did it against a Division I schedule, so all doubt can be moderated or even terminated. Had he done this against a D-II menu, some folks would simply chalk it up to strength (or lack thereof) in competition. There are normally just one or two players in the OIA and ILH who actually do the trifecta: throw, run and catch a TD during the season. I have no idea right now what Morgan’s plans are for the future, but if it doesn’t involve football at some level, this would be a heck of a season to retire on. And it was only six games.

X factor: If he can play special teams, he should have a spot at a small or large college somewhere. A guy who can do five things well or at least moderately well is a coaching staff’s Swiss Army knife, and every team needs guys like that.

Kawai Phifer, Leilehua
Measurables: 5-9, 170, Sr.
Crunch this: 8 games — Rec 35-505, 4 TD; Rush 7-19
Yards per catch: 14.4
Yards per game: 63.1
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. #2 Punahou 8/5: Rec 3-27; Rush 7-19. ¥7.6 + $5.0 = ¥$12.6
vs. #1 Kahuku 8/12: Rec 6-43. ¥10.3 + $5.0 = ¥$15.3
vs. #10 Kapolei 8/20: Rec 1-1. ¥1.1 + $5.0 = ¥$6.1
@ Nanakuli 8/27: Rec 4-79, TD (10). ¥17.9
vs. #7 Farrington 9/5: Rec 2-13. ¥3.3 + $5.0 = ¥$8.3
@ Kailua 9/10: Rec 6-157, 2 TD (41, 80). ¥35.7
vs. Castle 9/16: Rec 8-118, TD (11). ¥25.8
vs. #7 Mililani 9/30: Rec 5-67. ¥11.7 + $5.0 = ¥$16.7
vs Aiea 10/8:
To date: ¥$138.4 / ¥$17.3 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) The Mules’ passing game has had its ups and downs, for sure. But even in the times of struggle, there’s just so much potential, they can’t help but keep trusting this thingamagig known as the forward pass. Phifer has been consistent and, in some ways, solidly predictable. His best games have been against unranked teams; the deeper, more talented defenses have been able to contain him. You may have a great running game and/or a superb deep-route guy. But without a reliable pass catcher like Phifer who is more than willing to take contact in short and intermediate routes, you may not be able to move the chains consistently. Since taking those lumps in that brutal early schedule, the Mules have become fluid and explosive at times. They are averaging 37.7 points in their last three games, and those happen to be Phifer at his best.

X factor: For the entire Leilehua offense, things operate much more smoothly when stellar defensive back Charles Moku Watson is posting double duty as a WR. They can’t ask or expect that for entire games, though.

Isaac Yamashita, Waipahu
Measurables: 5-11, 190, Jr.
Crunch this: 6 games — Rec 19-475, 4 TD; Rush 1-15
Yards per catch: 25.0
Yards per game: 79.2
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Nanakuli 8/5: Rec 2-44. ¥6.4
vs. Kalaheo* 8/13: Rec 4-120, TD. ¥27.5
vs. Roosevelt (Aloha) 9/5: Rec 5-135, 2 TD (82, 27); Rush 1-15. ¥31.5
vs. Pearl City* 9/10: Rec 1-51. ¥6.1
vs. McKinley* 9/17: Rec 3-49. ¥7.9
@ Waialua 9/23: DNP
vs. Kaimuki (Mililani) 10/1: Rec 4-76, TD (39). ¥17.6
vs. Kalani* 10/8:
* Aiea HS field
To date: ¥$97.0 / ¥$16.2 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) The jury is out on Yamashita, who has all the measurables and big-play production expected of a team’s deep-threat target. The knock against any Division II receiver is the level of competition, of course. Yamashita’s best numbers piled up against the division’s sub-.500 teams. The Marauders haven’t gotten a lot of connection between QB Braden Amorozo and Yamashita against the division’s top teams, but when they do connect, the gains are large. None were larger than the 39-yard Hail Mary touchdown at the end of the first half against Kaimuki. With Kalani awaiting Saturday and the upcoming OIA D-II playoffs, and possibly the state tourney, there will be plenty of opportunities for Yamashita and Waipahu’s balanced offense.

X factor: Can the Marauders capitalize when defenses invest in extra coverage on Yamashita? Can they get him more touches on shorter routes? Or will they trust that the rest of their receiving corps will come through?

Daniel Nguyen, Kaimuki
Measurables: Sr.
Crunch this: 6 games — Rec 24-362, 7 TD; Rush 3-28, TD
Yards per catch: 15.1
Yards per game: 60.3
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. Waialua* 8/13: Rec 6-102, 3 TD (9, 14, 15). ¥35.2
vs. Kalani 8/20: Rec 1-50, TD. ¥12.0
vs. Roosevelt 8/27: Rec 2-25. ¥4.5
vs. Faith Lutheran** (Nev) 9/4: Rec 0-0. ¥0.0
@ Kalaheo*** 9/17 Rec 7-58, TD; Rush 1-20, TD ¥26.8
vs. McKinley* 9/23: Rec 4-75, TD (44). ¥17.5
vs. Waipahu# 10/1: Rec 4-52, TD (21); Rush 2-8. ¥15.2
@ Pearl City## 10/7:
* Home games at Kaiser Stadium
** Aloha Stadium
*** Kailua HS field
# Mililani HS field
## Aiea HS field
To date: ¥$111.2 / ¥$15.9 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) Not bad for a guy who plays full-time cornerback and is one of the better DBs at any level. The Bulldog offense has no shortage of receivers, but Nguyen complements deep threat Andries Toussaint the best, it seems. It is not common for a full-time defensive player to contribute this much offensively. At this rate, Nguyen’s receiving numbers could really grow if Kaimuki reaches the league championship game and the state tourney.

X factor: How much gas is left in Nguyen’s tank? How many miles are left? He is a warrior on both sides of the ball, but he’s still human. Not a machine.

Andries Toussaint, Kaimuki
Measurables: Sr.
Crunch this: 7 games — 24-416, 4 TD
Yards per catch: 17.3
Yards per game: 59.4
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. Waialua* 8/13: Rec 7-107, 2-pt. ¥20.7
vs. Kalani 8/20: Rec 2-26. ¥4.6
vs. Roosevelt 8/27: Rec 2-22, TD (10). ¥10.2
vs. Faith Lutheran** (Nev) 9/4: Rec 3-74, TD (23). ¥16.4
@ Kalaheo*** 9/17 Rec 1-20, TD (20). ¥9.0
vs. McKinley* 9/23: Rec 2-7. ¥2.7
vs. Waipahu# 10/1: Rec 7-159, TD (67). ¥30.9
@ Pearl City## 10/7:
* Home games at Kaiser Stadium
** Aloha Stadium
*** Kailua HS field
# Mililani HS field
## Aiea HS field
To date: ¥$94.5 / ¥$13.5 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) Toussaint has been a big-play target, putting in some strong games against Waipahu and Waialua. Kaimuki’s ability to run the ball often dictates how open Toussaint will get, and there have been games when the game flow forced the Bulldogs to air it out (Faith Lutheran, Waipahu). The book is still open on this senior. Curious to see how Pearl City will defend him and Nguyen.

X factor: He may not reel in a ton of receptions, but he is an impact guy. I doubt the Chargers will let him get many opportunities. They limited Waipahu’s Isaac Yamashita to one catch.

Travis Kaloa, Pac-Five
Measurables: 5-9, 135, Sr.
Crunch this: 4 games — 26-354, 8 TD
Yards per catch: 13.6
Yards per game: 88.5
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. McKinley* 8/6: Rec 4-76, 2 TD (15, 5). ¥23.6
@ Kamehameha-Maui 8/12: n/a
vs. Damien** 9/9: Rec 7-111, 2-pt. ¥21.1
vs. St. Francis** 9/16: Rec 5-48, 2 TD (21, 22). ¥21.8
vs. Damien** 9/30: Rec 10-119, 4 TD (6, 13, 11, 15). ¥46.9
vs. St. Francis** 10/7:
* Aiea HS field
To date: ¥$113.4 / ¥$28.4 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) We still don’t have the game/individual stats of KS-Maui/Pac-Five. And even then, Pac-Five has played just five games. Kaloa is sneaky quick, sneaky good and I wish he had eight or nine games against a wider spectrum of teams so we could appreciate what he’s done a bit more. Still, there’s no denying he has been consistent, nor that he excels — and has the benefit of — a pass-heavy offense. QB Ryan Johnson will rarely tuck and run, which means the ball is coming out nearly every snap.

X factor: If and when WR Kainoa Ferreira returns, he becomes an instant deep threat who can stretch coverage vertically. That means more space for Kaloa and his fellow pass catchers to work with. If Ferreira returns.

Ke‘ala Martinson, Punahou
Measurables: 6-2, 196, Sr.
Crunch this: 6 games — 27-423, 5 TD
Yards per catch: 15.7
Yards per game: 70.5
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Leilehua 8/5: Rec 3-31, TD (4). ¥12.1
vs. #6 Kamehameha* 9/1: Rec 4-86, TD (10). ¥18.6 + $5.0 = ¥$23.6
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/9: Rec 7-107. ¥17.7 + $5.0 = ¥$22.7
@ #10 ‘Iolani 9/17: Rec 3-16. ¥4.6 + $5.0 = ¥$9.6
vs. #8 Kamehameha* 9/23: Rec 5-110, 2 TD (25, 24). ¥29.0 + $5.0 = ¥$34.0
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/29: Rec 5-73, TD (12). ¥18.3 + $5.0 = ¥$23.3
vs. ‘Iolani 10/7:
* Aloha Stadium
To date: ¥$125.3 total / ¥$20.9 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) There has been a plethora of highly-productive, fan-friendly and entertaining groups of receivers over the years. This bunch at Punahou? They rank right up there with the best. All very reliable, with pretty good height, and all running precise routes. The balance, the give and take that the Buffanblu passing game engages in on game night is often something beautiful to behold. Martinson has built up the kind of trust with QB Nick Kapule that normally is reserved for the No. 1 receivers of most teams. In Punahou’s offense, every receiver is seemingly trusted, and Kapule’s ability to deliver makes it a special season. The tutelage of coaches like Fred Salanoa and Miah Ostrowski certainly doesn’t hurt.

X factor: It’s all about coverages and reads, so every Punahou receiver’s numbers will vary. It takes discipline to keep doing the job, and as long as OC Teetai Ane continues to master the terrain, the receiving corps will keep having big fun.

Eamon Brady, Punahou
Measurables: 6-1, 178, Sr.
Crunch this: 6 games — 20-393, 6 TD
Yards per catch: 19.7
Yards per game: 65.5
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Leilehua 8/5: Rec 3-58, TD (13). ¥14.8
vs. #6 Kamehameha* 9/1: Rec 3-63, TD (30). ¥15.3 + $5.0 = ¥$20.3
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/9: Rec 2-39. ¥5.9 + $5.0 = ¥$10.9
@ #10 ‘Iolani 9/17: Rec 4-69, TD (18). ¥16.9 + $5.0 = ¥$21.9
vs. #8 Kamehameha* 9/23: Rec 4-101, 3 TD (14, 42, 30). ¥33.1 + $5.0 = ¥$38.1
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/29: Rec 4-63. ¥10.3 + $5.0 = ¥$15.3
vs. ‘Iolani 10/7:
* Aloha Stadium
To date: ¥$121.3 total / ¥$20.2 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) His TD/reception ratio is probably one of the best in the state. Brady is another senior receiver who has been catching passes from his QBs for years. As long as the crew stays healthy, the numbers will continue to be efficient and the offense will keep churning out big point totals.

X factor: Brady’s effectiveness makes it difficult for defenses to shift attention elsewhere. He and his pass-catching partners may benefit from Takeyama’s vertical work, but they continue to come through in loose and tight coverage. As seniors, they have great chemistry with Kapule and Barber.

Judd Cockett, Punahou
Measurables: 5-11, 163, Sr.
Crunch this: 5 games — 26-348, 5 TD
Yards per catch: 13.4
Yards per game: 69.6
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Leilehua 8/5: Rec DNP
vs. #6 Kamehameha* 9/1: Rec 5-103, 3 TD (4, 8, 44). ¥34.3 + $5.0 = ¥$39.3
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/9: Rec 8-91. ¥17.1 + $5.0 = ¥$22.1
@ #10 ‘Iolani 9/17: Rec 5-106, TD (60). ¥22.6 + $5.0 = ¥$27.6
vs. #8 Kamehameha* 9/23: Rec 1-16. ¥2.6
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/29: Rec 7-32. ¥10.2 + $5.0 = ¥$15.2
vs. ‘Iolani 10/7:
* Aloha Stadium
To date: ¥$106.8 total / ¥$17.8 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) Cockett is a huge factor for Punahou since Cole Arceneaux’s early-season injury. Good quickness after the catch.

X factor: He may be overlooked at times by defensive backs, but he is sometimes the most dangerous in open space.

Cole Arceneaux, Punahou
Measurables:
Crunch this:
Yards per catch:
Yards per game:
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Leilehua 8/5: Rec 3-118, 2 TD (21, 36). ¥27.8
vs. #6 Kamehameha* 9/1: INJ
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/9: Rec 7-107. ¥18.7 + $5.0 = ¥$23.7
@ #10 ‘Iolani 9/17:
vs. #8 Kamehameha* 9/23:
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/29:
vs. ‘Iolani 10/7:
* Aloha Stadium
To date: ¥$27.8 / ¥$27.8 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) A knee injury cut Arceneaux’s promising junior season short. He was spectacular in the opener against Leilehua before the injury, but now he will miss the basketball season — he would have been one of the top guards in the state — as he rehabs back.

X factor: No doubt, he will rehab to full strength. The senior class on this team is deep at receiver. Arceneaux will be the alpha dog, my guess, when next season arrives.

Noah Alejado, Saint Louis
Measurables: Sr.
Crunch this: 6 games — Rec 30-418, 3 TD; Rush 1-(-7)
Yards per catch: 13.9
Yards per game: 69.7
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Mililani 8/6 (cancelled)
@ Hilo 8/20: Rec 3-62, TD. ¥15.2
vs. #9 ‘Iolani* 9/2: Rec 2-41. ¥6.2 + $5.0 = ¥$11.2
vs. #3 Punahou* 9/9: Rec 8-112, 2 TD (10, 20); Rush 1-(-7). ¥31.8 + $5.0 = ¥$36.8
vs. #6 Kamehameha* 9/17: Rec 2-18. ¥3.8 + $5.0 = ¥$8.8
@ ‘Iolani 9/23: Rec 11-147. ¥25.7 + $5.0 = ¥$30.7
vs. #3 Punahou* 9/29: Rec 4-38. ¥7.8 + $5.0 = ¥$12.8
vs. #10 Kamehameha* 10/7:
* Aloha Stadium
To date: ¥$115.5 / ¥$19.3 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) There’s no easy key to slowing the Saint Louis offense, but it’s clear that keeping a wrap on Alejado is one of them. Punahou limited him to four grabs and turned the tables by beating the Crusaders in their rematch last week. Otherwise, he is capable of wounding defenses again and again.

X factor: Without a true deep threat, Saint Louis has been methodical and efficient with the nation’s top QB, Tua Tagovailoa, at the wheel. Kamehameha smothered Alejado the last time the teams met. I’d be surprised if the Crusaders and OC Ron Lee made special adjustments to get Alejado the ball more often, but it could happen.

Markus Ramos, Campbell
Measurables: 6-3, 190, Sr.
Crunch this: 8 games — Rec 33-452, 6 TD
Yards per catch: 12.3
Yards per game: 51.3
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ #6 Kapolei 8/5: Rec 6-41. ¥10,1 + $5.0 = ¥$15.1
vs. #8 Farrington (Ticky) 8/13: Rec 2-26. ¥4.6 + $5.0 = ¥$9.6
@ Kaiser 8/19: Rec 6-51, TD (10). ¥17.6
@ Aiea 8/27: Rec 5-108. ¥15.8
@ #1 Kahuku 9/2: Rec 3-41. ¥7.1 + $5.0 = ¥$12.1
vs. Moanalua 9/16: Rec 3-41. ¥7.1
vs. #4 Waianae 9/23: Rec 3-73, TD (32). ¥16.3 + $5.0 = ¥$21.3
vs. Radford 9/30: Rec 3-71, 3 TD (1, 15, 37). ¥28.1
To date: ¥$126.7 total / ¥$15.8 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) The development of QB Kawika Ulufale ties directly to Ramos’ production. Ramos, by the way, is an ace pitcher for the state powerhouse Sabers baseball team.

(Sept 22) He passes the eye test. I remember seeing Campbell last season — their upset playoff win over Kaiser — and I think it was then when I saw Ramos. Tall, speedy, totally looks the part off a potentially great pass catcher. This season, he has modest numbers, including three-catch, 41-yard production in each of his last two games.

X factor: Next up are two athletic secondary units in Waianae and Radford. Waianae will bring a pass rush that is matched by only a handful or so OIA defenses. It’s quite interesting that QB Kawika Ulufale has aired the ball out so often — Campbell operates out of the four-wide — and a number of Sabers have made contributions. But Ulufale also has a high number of interceptions, whether it’s from lack of protection or miscommunication with his receivers, or forcing the ball or trusting them too much. It’s hard to say, but the ball keeps spiraling out of the pocket to Campbell pass catchers, so the opportunities are clearly there. As was the case in 2015, all they need to do is peak late and play great.

Kingston Moses-Sanchez, Farrington
Measurables: 6-0, 185, Sr.
Crunch this: 7 games — Rec 32-496, 5 TD; Rush 1-0
Yards per catch: 15.5
Yards per game: 70.9
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. Campbell 8/13: Rec 8-146, 2 TD (60, 14). ¥34.6
vs. Kailua 8/20: Rec 1-15. ¥2.5
@ #6 Mililani 8/27: Rec 9-87. ¥17.7 + $5.0 = ¥$22.7
vs. Leilehua 9/5: Rec 1-1; Rush 1-0. ¥1.1
@ Castle 9/10: Rec 3-15. ¥4.5
vs. Nanakuli 9/17: Rec 4-160, 2 TD (86, 5). ¥32.0
@ #5 Kapolei 9/24: Rec 2-12. ¥3.2 + $5.0 = ¥$8.2
vs. Kaiser 10/7:
* home games at Ticky Vasconcellos Stadium
To date: ¥$105.6 total / ¥$15.1 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) Credit to Kapolei’s defense, which bent without breaking often against Farrington’s 1-2 combo of Challen Faamatau and Moses-Sanchez. Coach Darren Hernandez is a defensive guru, and he had been cautious about the Govs, who had showed great potential earlier in the season with Moses-Sanchez on one side and Mosi Alaivanu-Afe on the other. Alaivanu-Afe did not play in the Kapolei game, and whether that was a major plus for Kapolei’s game plan or not, it’s hard to say. Moses-Sanchez passes the eye test, no question, with long strides, deceptively good speed and normally reliable hands. He is the quintessential vertical receiver, but he’s tough enough to handle crossing routes and other assorted short stuff with the agility and acceleration needed to break off a big gain. Kaiser will be an interesting challenge tonight. They’ve got athletes who can stay with Moses-Sanchez, but if he can handle the one-on-one coverage, how much can Kaiser afford to invest two cover defenders?

(Sept 22) He may be the best deep threat in the program’s history, highly reliable and equally solid on intermediate routes and screens. Defenses have gambled against him, opting for single coverage, and gotten burned. Whether it’s Justin Uahinui or Bishop Rapoza at QB, Moses-Sanchez has made plays happen for the Govs offense.

X factor: (Sept 22) With Challen Faamatau drawing defenders into the box and first-year starter Mosi Alaivanu-Afe coming along as a key playmaker, Moses-Sanchez’s finest games may be ahead of him.

Isaiah Freeney, Waianae
Measurables: 5-11, 180, Sr.
Crunch this: 7 games — 19-350, 4 TD
Yards per catch: 18.4
Yards per game: 50.0
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ #4 Kamehameha 8/5: Rec 6-85, TD (54). ¥20.5 + $5.0 = ¥$25.5
@ #5 Kapolei 8/13: Rec 1-10. ¥1.1 + $5.0 = ¥$6.1
vs. Moanalua 8/19: Rec 3-35. ¥6.5
@ #1 Kahuku 8/26: Rec 1-9. ¥1.9 + $5.0 = ¥$6.9
vs. Kaiser 9/2: Rec 2-90, TD (76). ¥17.0
@ Aiea 9/9: Rec 4-86. ¥12.6
vs. Radford 9/16: Rec 2-35, 2 TD (22, 13). ¥17.5
@ Campbell 9/23: Rec 1-10. ¥1.1
To date: ¥$93.2 total / ¥$11.7 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) I admit, keeping track of Freeney’s week-to-week stats is a bit like watching a seedling struggling to grow while rocks and even boulders sit atop its soil. But I also get this: any college program with a heavy emphasis on the run game would probably be interested in a fairly tall receiver who is used to getting only a handful of looks each game, someone who is a fairly good blocker, and buys into the whole system. Oh, and yes, he can be a possession receiver and go deep, too. What’s not to like?

(Sept 22) In a more pass-friendly offense, Freeney’s numbers would double and possibly triple. Freeney has simply overwhelmed some defensive backs this season, but the Seariders use him as much as a threat and decoy as they do a clutch playmaker. Any young pass catcher coming into Waianae High School knows that the base of Searider success lies in defense and ground-and-pound football. Freeney is in an offense that scores huge points while airing it out at a moderate rate: 15 pass attempts per game.

X factor: (Sept 22) His most productive game was in in Week 1, when he had six catches for 85 yards and a TD against Kamehameha. Since then, the numbers have been modest as Waianae’s ground game exploded. The Seariders have held large leads in every game but one since the Kamehameha game, a game flow that significantly affects receiver stats. Freeney is happy either way.

Jaykob Cabunoc, Kamehameha
Measurables: 5-7, 160, Sr.
Crunch this: 5 games — Rec 26-418, 4 TD; Rush 6-29
Yards per catch: 16.1
Yards per game: 83.6
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. #4 Waianae 8/5: DNP-injury
@ Baldwin (War Memorial) 8/13: DNP-injury
vs. #2 Punahou (Aloha) 9/1: Rec 3-6; Rush 2-21. ¥5.7 + $5.0 = ¥$10.7
vs. #10 ‘Iolani 9/10: Rec 7-153, 2 TD (14, 38); Rush 0-0. ¥34.3 + $5.0 = ¥$39.3
vs. #2 Saint Louis (Aloha) 9/17: Rec 6-115; Rush 0-0. ¥17.5 + $5.0 = ¥$22.5
vs. #3 Punahou (Aloha) 9/23: Rec 3-33, TD (4). Rush 0-0 ¥12.3 + $5.0 = ¥$17.3
vs. ‘Iolani (Aloha) 9/30: Rec 7-111, TD (20); Rush 2-8. ¥26.5 + $5.0 = ¥$31.5
vs. Saint Louis (Aloha) 10/7:
To date: ¥$121.3 total / ¥$24.3 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) It’s never easy to be a returning senior learning a new, much-different system regardless of the sport. Cabunoc continues to be a deep threat, an intermediate route runner when required, and is the concern of just about every defense. The numbers show he has thrived most of the time whether the Warriors ground and pound a lot, or even more so. He seems to have recovered from his injury well. Project what he would do in a pass-friendly offense and the numbers would be staggering. He is a major reason why Kamehameha will be a spooky threat in the playoffs.

(Sept 22) Since returning from injury, Cabunoc has been an impact contributor. He is precise and reliable as a route runner, and is also a deep threat. Punahou contained him on the night he returned, but he has posted big numbers against ‘Iolani and Saint Louis. The good news is that he and another key contributor who returned from injury, RB Kanoa Shannon, should be in a groove by now after missing preseason.

X factor: (Sept 22) Cabunoc could produce similar numbers in the final three regular-season games, but defenses will factor him into their game plans. That alone should open up the rest of the field for Kamehameha’s other receivers, as well as Shannon.

Wyatt Perez, Kapolei
Measurables: 5-9, 170, Sr.
Crunch this: 7 games — Rec 29-501, 8 TD; Rush 1-1
Yards per catch: 17.3
Yards per game: 71.6
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Campbell 8/5: Rec 6-88, 3 TD (26, 20, 28). ¥32.8
vs. #4 Waianae 8/13: Rec 2-69. ¥8.9 + $5.0 = ¥$13.9
@ Leilehua 8/20: Rec 4-64, TD. ¥10.4
@ Castle 8/26: Rec 3-25; Rush 1-1. ¥5.6
@ #4 Mililani 9/5: Rec 4-75, 3 TD (19, 35, 10). ¥29.5 + $5.0 = ¥$34.5
vs. Kailua 9/16: Rec 7-118, TD (5). ¥25.8
vs. Farrington 9/24: Rec 3-62. ¥9.3 + $5.0 = ¥$14.3
vs. Nanakuli 9/30:
To date: ¥$137.3 / ¥$19.6 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) He has the numbers and big-play potential of a first-look target in just about any offense. It’s always interesting to see how a June Jones offense plays out, the way a balanced passer like Taulia Tagovailoa works his progression.

(Sept 22) He’s as elusive as any pass catcher in the Hurricane’s four-wide offense, and even more dangerous when defenses opt to pay more attention to WR Jaymin Sarono. Perez had three TDs in the opener against Campbell, then scored just one TD over a three-game stretch before crossing the goal line three times in a big win at Mililani.

X factor: (Sept 22) With the return of two receivers from injury, the four-wide corps just got a smidge more crowded. That should work out well, though, as the group competes every day for more snaps.

Ryan Ramones, Moanalua
Measurables: 5-11, 152, Sr. 40: 4.52 Hudl
Crunch this: 6 games — Rec 47-836, 15 TD; Rush 1-(-7)
Yards per catch: 17.8
Yards per game: 139.3
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. Damien 8/5: Rec 10-268, 5 TD (88, 27, 41, 16, 19). ¥72.8
@ Kailua 8/13: Rec 6-76, TD (16). ¥19.6
@ #4 Waianae 8/19: Rec 9-91, 2 TD (3, 25). ¥30.1 + $5.0 = ¥$35.1
@ Radford 9/2: Rec 5-118, 2 TD (10, 71), 2-pt. ¥31.8
vs. Kaiser 9/9: Rec 10-228, 4 TD (15, 74, 44, 13). ¥62.8
@ Campbell 9/16: Rec 7-55, TD (12); Rush 1-(-7). ¥17.7
vs. #1 Kahuku 9/24: Rec 5-46. ¥9.6 + $5.0 = ¥$14.6
vs. Aiea 9/30: Rec 9-76. ¥16.6
vs. Castle 10/7:
To date: ¥$271.0 total / ¥$33.9 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) It’s one of those things when a WR produces monster numbers early in the season. The offense needs to develop balance no matter what, but that development will happen (or not) sooner than later in a situation like this. Castle will bring speed in coverage, more likely to keep help on Ramones’ side of the field. That should help open lanes for the running game, for pass catchers like Rylan Miguel and Brandon Bender — if Bender is healthy enough to keep contributing.

(Sept 22) Even with a lighter performance against a stellar Campbell defense (seven catches, 55 yards, one TD), Ramones’ overall numbers are still eye-popping. Leave it to a run-and-shoot veteran like Campbell coach Amosa Amosa and his staff to figure out ways to limit the effectiveness of Moanalua’s offense.
(Sept 16) Is there anyone with more fun time on the gridiron at the position of wide receiver? That list is extremely short, perhaps one (Jaymin Sarono) or two. It doesn’t hurt that Ramones is a fairly tall receiver who has the complete trust of his partner in aerial arms. Against Waianae, Ramones was targeted 22 times. I’d be willing to wager a side of Taiyo Ramen gyoza that there are entire teams that haven’t passed the ball 22 times in a game this year. Ramones isn’t just a gifted athlete catching bombs against average or sub-par competition. The OIA Blue is rugged, and even Moanalua’s nonconference game was against one of the state’s top Division-II teams, Damien, which currently is unbeaten in the ILH.

X factor: (Sept 22) The final two regular-season matchups won’t be any easier. Kahuku has long taken pride on taking the air out of normally prolific passing attacks. Even Aiea will be tough; Coach Wendell Say gets the most out of his personnel, and he and his coaches know the run-and-shoot and how to defend it. Are there any more ways Moanalua can deploy Ramones? Possibly. But the four-wide offense was never meant to be overly dependent on one receiver. Creative juice time at the Lake.

(Sept 16) Yes, nine TDs were against just two teams, Damien and Kaiser. But Ramones has still scored at least one TD against every team Moanalua has faced. How does Ramones manage to score FOURTEEN TOUCHDOWNS when every defense knows he is Alaka‘i Yuen’s go-to man? I’ve only seen one Moanalua game. The tape will tell to an extent, but is it remotely possible that defenses still underestimate Ramones?

Jaymin Sarono, Kapolei
Measurables: 5-10, 185, Sr. Hudl
Crunch this: 8 games — Rec 70-774, 14 TD
Yards per catch: 10.8
Yards per game: 106.5
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Campbell 8/5: Rec 10-85, 2 TD (6, 14). ¥30.5
vs. #4 Waianae 8/13: Rec 11-87, 2 TD (8, 26). ¥26.7 + $5.0 = ¥$31.7
@ Leilehua 8/20: Rec 7-50, 2 TD (7, 7). ¥24.0
@ Castle 8/26: Rec 10-135, 3 TD (10, 10, 38). ¥40.5
@ #4 Mililani 9/5: Rec 12-139, TD (8). ¥32.9 + $5.0 = ¥$37.9
vs. Kailua 9/16: Rec 9-143, TD (6). ¥30.3
vs. #6 Farrington 9/24: Rec 5-62, TD (9). ¥17.2 + $5.0 = ¥$22.2
vs. Nanakuli 9/30:
To date: ¥$194.9 total / ¥$32.5 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) There aren’t a lot of football grinders like Sarono, so his numbers aren’t entirely surprising. He’s one of the only WRs to score a TD in every game so far. Of his four best games, two were against Top 5 teams, and his effort against No. 6 Farrington last week was crucial.

(Sept 22) From a Nerdpod receiving value perspective, Sarono’s season has been so strong — I have yet to include a value for consistency — that even last week’s nine-catch, 143-yard, one-TD performance was actually slightly below his usual output. Stellar, but there’s a good reason why he didn’t do even more: the rest of the fun bunch are stepping up. Way up. Wyatt Perez was superb. So was Isaiah Ahana. The two WRs back from injury made their debuts. It’s just a major surplus of receiving talent.

(Sept 16) Yes, the math is correct. Sarono has clutched an average of 10 passes per game. Stupendous, yet not shocking for the hard-working senior. He is most clutch on third and fourth downs, and he is far from a one-man show with QB Taulia Tagovailoa scanning from sideline to sideline. Five Hurricanes in all have double-digit reception totals so far. Sarono earns his keep, willing to run inside routes.

X factor: (Sept 22) So, with all the receiving depth, it makes sense that Sarono’s numbers won’t be quite as robust entering the last few weeks of the regular season, and then the postseason, right? Well, maybe not. Marquis Montgomery, a smooth 6-3 deep threat, gives Taulia Tagovailoa another vertical target, which means defensive coverages will be extremely stretched. More real estate to play with. So, quite possibly, the numbers of Sarono and his pass-catching pals could grow. Remember, the Hurricanes rarely, if ever, go into hurry-up mode. If they ever decide to do this they’ve got the legs and stamina to do so now. YIKES.

(Sept 16) Sarono’s yards-after-catch is a big part of his production value. He takes big hits, holds on to the ball and accelerates forward. YAC is the marrow of what makes the four-wide a moderate-risk, high-reward system — when placed in the hands of the poised and skilled.

Ethan Takeyama, Punahou
Measurables: 5-10, 168, Sr. Hudl
Crunch this: 6 games — 39-667, 7 TD
Yards per catch: 19.0
Yards per game: 119.0
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
@ Leilehua 8/5: Rec 5-82, TD (12). ¥19.2
vs. #6 Kamehameha* 9/1: Rec 7-146, TD (7). ¥28.6 + $5.0 = ¥$33.6
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/9: Rec 10-189, 4 TD (19, 59, 10, 19), 2-pt. ¥56.9 + $5.0 = ¥$61.9
@ #10 ‘Iolani 9/17: Rec 3-59. ¥8.9 + $5.0 = ¥$13.9
vs. #8 Kamehameha* 9/23: Rec 5-95. ¥14.5 + $5.0 = ¥$19.5
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/29: Rec 9-96, TD (24). ¥24.6 + $5.0 = ¥$29.6
vs. ‘Iolani 10/7:
* Aloha Stadium
To date: ¥$158.5 total / ¥$26.4 pg

The skinny: (Oct 7) Defenses have tried to shackle Takeyama since that humongous game against Saint Louis in early September. That works fine for Punahou, which will not force feed the talented senior. Sometimes he’ll line up as the single receiver in trips, sometimes not. But it appears defenses are willing to shade toward Takeyama and take away Punahou’s best deep threat.

(Sept 22) Takeyama had a relatively quiet game against ‘Iolani, which is not a big surprise. The Raiders understand the nuances of four-wide offense quite well, so they seemed to prefer taking Takeyama out of big-play opportunities. It was pick-your-poison time. And the result was fruitful for Takeyama’s teammates. Three of them had more receiving yardage than he did: Judd Cockett (5-106, 60-yard TD), Andre Iosivas (6-78, 42-yard TD and a 2-point conversion), Eamon Brady 4-69, 12-yard TD). Cover Takeyama too closely on the solo side, and his buddies in trips formation find open space. QBs Nick Kapule and Stephen Barber combined for 382 passing yards. In all, nine Buffanblu caught at least one pass.

(Sept 16) Takeyama, like Sarono and Ramones, is part of a very good corps of receivers. Not as tall or explosive as his predecessor, Kanawai Noa, but extremely effective on all routes. Punahou lines Takeyama up usually as the single receiver on trips formations and he often delivers on go routes or inside routes. His chemistry with QBs Nick Kapule and Stephen Barber seems equally excellent. Great hands, body control and acceleration.
Ramones has put up two huge performances against Damien and Kaiser. What Takeyama did against Saint Louis was even more monumental: 10 catches, 189 yards, four TDs and a PAT reception.

X factor: (Sept 22) The day may come when Takeyama has even fewer catches in a game. That would be a rough day for most defensive units. Against ‘Iolani, Punahou RBs carried the ball 32 times, and as a team, they accounted for 47 rushes. Kapule, Barber and Nui Adolpho combined for “only” 40 pass attempts. These are the kinds of balanced numbers coach Kale Ane likes. A lot. And when defenses start to forget about Takeyama, it’s fairly certain that his slingers will launch away near and far to No. 21.

(Sept 16) He is a key cog in the system, whether he’s getting targets or drawing double coverage. Thus, his value isn’t necessarily in the numbers, especially with a head coach (Kale Ane) who would really like to see the offense generate more production on the ground.

Justin Genovia, ‘Iolani
Measurables: 5-8, 150, Jr.
Crunch this: 7 games — Rec 51-735, 6 TD; Rec 3-(-6)
Yards per catch: 14.4
Yards per game: 105.0
Game by game / Passcode (¥ receiving statistical values):
vs. Radford* 8/6: Rec 7-140, TD (12). ¥28.0
vs. Waimea 8/20: Rec 6-102. ¥17.2
vs. La Jolla Country Day (Calif.) 8/27: Rec 11-145, 2 TD (24, 8). ¥38.5
vs. #2 Saint Louis* 9/2: Rec 2-0. ¥2.0 + $5.0 = ¥$7.0
@ #6 Kamehameha 9/10: Rec 6-77, TD (3). Rush 1-(-1). ¥19.6 + $5.0 = ¥$24.6
vs. Punahou 9/17: DNP
vs. Saint Louis 9/23: Rec 11-140; Rush 1-(-5). ¥25.5 + $5.0 = ¥$30.5
vs. Kamehameha* 9/30: Rec 8-140, 2 TD (8, 25). ¥35.0 + $5.0 = ¥$40.0
@ Punahou 10/7:
*Aloha Stadium
To date: ¥$115.3 total / ¥$23.1 pg
(Note: The ¥$ numbers now reflect strength-of-schedule points for Saint Louis.)

The skinny: (Oct 7) So, let’s be square about this. There are more than a few ‘Iolani haters out there, even now. I’m not a hater, nor a liker. I’m the guy nerdpodding through receivers. And what I see is Genovia, who continues to haul in passes from a good junior QB, who doesn’t have a deep threat to complement (or be complemented by), and faces a Top 10 team every week. Facing Saint Louis and Kamehameha in his past two games, his averages and values actually went UP. A combined 19 receptions for 280 yards and two TDs. The argument against Genovia’s production could be this: he’s the main receiver on a pass-oriented team picking up stats in garbage time. Really? They lost to Kamehameha 21-16. The margin of loss against Saint Louis was 18 points; not close, but not the total blowout, either. And if he’s the No. 1 receiver, why doesn’t anyone shut him down? Part of that is the amazing season that RB K.J. Pascua is having. But a lot of it is simply Genovia. Put him in the OIA and he might have Jaymin Sarono type numbers. Sarono might be the best statewide in yards after contact; he’s a bull with a wideout’s hands and a cross-country runner’s stamina. Genovia? He’s right there in terms of quality production. Amazing. He hasn’t tapered off a bit.

(Sept 22) I wasn’t at the ‘Iolani-Punahou game last weekend, so I’m waiting on word about Genovia, who apparently did not play for the first time this season.

(Sept 16) Genovia has flourished against evenly-matched programs, as well as some of the better programs around. But Saint Louis limited him to on receiving yardage two weeks ago. He fared better against Kamehameha last week.

X factor: (Sept 22) It’s interesting that ‘Iolani managed to score 24 points, including a few late in the game of a blowout, of course, against Punahou without its most productive pass catcher.

(Sept 16) He simply makes plays, at least when I’ve seen him play. He sticks out because he will take advantage of regular pass coverages — most of the time.

¥ point values
1 reception +1 pt
1 receiving yard +.1 pt
100 receiving yards +1 pt
150 reeciving yards +2 pts
200 receiving yards +3 pts
100 rushing yards +1 pt
150 rushing yards +2 pts
200 rushing yards +3 pts

$ strength of schedule (5 pts per Top 10 opponent)
¥$ Total / ¥$ Avg. per game