Leilehua QB Kenan Sadanaga has completed 64 of 97 passes for 820 yards (second in the state) and 10 TDs (tops in the state) this season. Scoring Live file photo

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Campbell's defense, which was key in victories against Waianae and Punahou the past two weeks, will be put to the test against defending Oahu Interscholastic Association Red West champion Leilehua Saturday.

Kickoff for the crucial OIA West contest is about 6:30 p.m. at Hugh Yoshida Stadium.

The Sabers (3-0 overall, 1-0 West), ranked fifth in the ScoringLive Power Rankings, are off to their best start since 2008, when they opened at 3-0 en route to winning the OIA White championship. But unlike then, the Sabers are coming off victories against perennial powers.

But unlike Waianae and Punahou, both of which started first-year varsity sophomores at quarterback, Leilehua returns senior Kenan Sadanaga, one of the state's top passers from a year ago and among the state leaders at this juncture of the season. Campbell's defense will have to adjust to a QB with a quick release and a fast mind.

"They do a tremendous job with the offense and every year, they have a quarterback who can run their offense," Campbell coach Amosa Amosa said. "Sadanaga reminds me of a former quarterback we had, Keenan Naeole (when Amosa was at Aiea), a lefty, quick release. That kind of athlete at the quarterback position is always going to present some problems and some interesting challenges for any defense."

Leilehua interim coach Mark Kurisu said Sadanaga's experience and athleticism are pluses against Campbell's aggressive defense.

"Anytime you can put an athlete with experience on the field, it changes a lot (of opportunites)," Kurisu said. "It's always good to have a veteran group come in, a veteran quarterback in this case. It should be a fun game."

Sadanaga has been his efficient self, completing 64 of 97 passes for 820 yards (second in the state) and 10 TDs (tops in the state). Allen Racette leads the Mules with 15 receptions for 322 yards and three TDs.

"Our plan is to keep their offense off the field," said Amosa, who added the Mules have the ability to strike quickly and often, as they did against Service (Alaska), which they tied 34-34.

The Mules (2-0-1, 1-0) are well aware of the Sabers' defense, which held Waianae to 14 points and Punahou to zero. Linebackers Giovanni Stevenson and Solomon Leaeno have been the Sabers' leading tacklers in their three games.

"The biggest test will be our offense against their defense," Leilehua interim coach Mark Kurisu said.

Meanwhile, Campbell's offense, save for a 68-0 win against Waipahu, of the OIA White, has scored just enough. Of course, it had to contend with some of the better defenses around in Waianae and Punahou. Second-year QB Justin Tago is improved from last year. He is fifth in the state with 558 yards passing in three games. Aries Pihi and Keoni Piceno have been reliable receivers for Tago.

Sophomore RB Paul-Andrew Rhoden has been used conservatively, but has been dangerous when given the opportunity. He averages 9.4 yards per carry.

The Mules' defense has a trio of third-year varsity players in safety Russell Siavii, linebacker Reece Acohido and lineman Penitito Melei.

"We rely on them for their leadership," Kurisu said.