5 things to look for when UNLV plays Hawaii on Saturday

Five things to look for when UNLV's football team plays Hawaii at 3 p.m. Saturday at Sam Boyd Stadium:

1. If UNLV quarterback Blake Decker plays and whether he will be effective. He injured his throwing shoulder last Saturday against Boise State and is listed as questionable, but Decker returned to practice Wednesday and has been cleared. The major issue is his pain tolerance, so if he plays, then the question becomes Decker's ability to make plays if limited.

2. Commitment to the run. No matter who the Rebels play at quarterback, they must take advantage of a Hawaii defense that allows 258.4 yards rushing per game. If UNLV can make plays on the ground and control the clock, the Rebels will put themselves in position to win.

3. The effectiveness of Hawaii quarterback Ikaika Woolsey. He replaces struggling starter Max Wittek, and Woolsey is familiar to the Rebels. Woolsey passed for 229 yards and the game-winning touchdown against UNLV last season.

4. The energy levels for both teams. UNLV is steamed over last season's controversial ending. Hawaii has undergone a coaching change, which often produces a jolt of enthusiasm. Such energy is difficult to sustain, however. The Rebels have faded late in games because of a lack of depth, and the Rainbow Warriors are a tired team because of what has been a demanding travel schedule even by their standards.

5. Hawaii surprises. With Chris Naeole taking over as interim coach, the Warriors could provide some unexpected wrinkles. UNLV must be on guard for such plays, which could create momentum swings.

Contact Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914. Follow him on Twitter: @markanderson65