Photos: Chase Eveleth ’25
Punahou’s woes continued against the Campbell Sabers as they were taken down 49-17 in a non-league game at Alexander Field. Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele’s passing attack combined with Tainoa Lave’s punt return fueled the Sabers to a dominant win over the Buff ‘n Blue Saturday afternoon.
Sagapolutele, the number 1 prospect in Hawaii according to 24/7 Sports, has been on fire since the start of the season. He continued his impressive run with a stellar performance, throwing for four touchdowns and rushing for one more. He made it look effortless through the air, connecting with his receivers for multiple big plays. His ability to extend plays with his legs added another dimension to the Sabers’ already potent offense, keeping the Buff and Blue defense on their heels all afternoon.
Senior wide receiver Dash Watanabe had a strong day receiving with 8 receptions for 117 yards. During the first drive of the game, he was able to help get the Buff n Blue into field goal range, catching passes from freshman QB Hunter Fujikawa. This then led to the first points of the game: a 29 yard field goal scored by Punahou’s kicker Carson Beard.
Despite the lopsided score, Punahou had their moments, thanks to the efforts of running back Nelson Aau.
When asked about his his success so far he said, “My takeaway from yesterday’s game was we were able to show improvements on offense. Specifically coming off of the last game against Sierra Canyon. As a team, we didn’t quit on each other & we did finish the game strong. We’ll continue to build, learn, and get better. As far as my success, I’m just trying to be positive & keep my motivation up as we push through the season. We have a long season ahead & our first goal is still attainable. That’s winning the ILH Open Division & returning to States..”
Aau was a bright spot for the Buff and Blue, contributing two rushing touchdowns that kept his team motivated throughout the game.
However, Punahou’s offense couldn’t keep pace with the Sabers, who continued to pile on points. Aau’s touchdown in the fourth quarter provided a spark for the Buff n Blue, but was answered by Tainoa Lave with a 86 yard punt return that had Saber Nation on their feet. With this win, the Sabers solidified their reputation as a formidable force this season.
Sagapolutele’s leadership and dynamic playmaking have been central to Campbell’s success as they improve to 2-0 on the year. Punahou, meanwhile, falling to 1-2, will need to regroup and address the gaps exposed by Campbell’s high-powered offense.
Sagapolutele reflected on the team’s aspirations for the year after the win saying “the sky’s the limit”.
Punahou’s leading receiver Dash Watanabe commented on the growing connection between him and freshman quarterback Hunter Fujikawa.
“The connection between us has been built through practice and the repetitions that we all share together throughout practice. Most of the catches I’ve had in this game are the exact same in practice, so having those reps and seeing it everyday makes it a lot easier in the game for us.”
Punahou aims to rebound and get back in the win column next week in a highly anticipated matchup against longtime rival Iolani. Punahou wide receiver Kyler Matsui who was sidelined today due to an ankle injury is expected to return to action next week. The Buff ‘n Blue will look to tighten their defense and capitalize on more offensive opportunities as they prepare for the crucial showdown. On the other side, the Campbell Sabers, riding high after their dominant win, will face Farrington with hopes of advancing to a 3-0 record for the second consecutive year.