HONOLULU — Hawai‘i defensive end Darius Muasau wasn’t heavily recruited coming out of Mililani High School.
In his first two seasons, the sophomore defensive end has made the most of his one opportunity to play NCAA Division I football.
During his first two seasons, the 6-foot, 1-inch player has totaled 108 tackles and a sack. He’s totaled 30 tackles in the first four games of the season against Fresno State, Wyoming, New Mexico and San Diego State.
Rainbow Warriors’ coach Todd Graham is already impressed with Muasau, who has become an anchor on Hawai‘i’s defense.
“Coach Graham said I have All-Conference or All-American potential,” Muasau said.
The Rainbow Warriors’ defensive unit struggled against San Diego State, but Muasau continued to be one of the bright spots on the team.
Against a tough San Diego State running team, Muasau helped contain one of the best running backs in the country in Greg Bell.
In the 34-10 loss, the defensive end had five solo tackles and five assisted tackles in a unit still working on coming together.
“We are all playing together, we are one unit and one team,” Muasau said. “Our linebackers are helping me get where I am today, and they have just really paved a path for me. I am just having fun with them, and I am excited to be here.”
Taking on challenges
Muasau loves to be challenged by Graham, as he will inform Muasau about the best players they face in the upcoming game.
“I love challenges. I love to take on challenges like that, and I try to prove myself every day,” Muasau said. “I try to be the best player every day for my team.”
Student of the game
Muasau studies lots of game film during the week in preparation for the upcoming game.
His formula for his success is simple.
“Honestly, it is just film work, and I go every day with our coaches and we watch one to two hours worth of film,” Muasau said.
“You get to know the tendencies of the offensive line and where the ball will end up.”
Achieving a high level of success, Muasau continues to recall the film he studies repetitiously.
“I usually go over the calls, and there is a lot of thinking involved in our defense,” Muasau said.
“I just go home and watch game film. That helps me prepare for every week. We just want to stop everything that we can.”
