7 minutes of game time into the first quarter and the Broncos held a 14-0 lead. The Bronco defense came out strong, forcing a 3-and-out against the Rainbow Warriors and promptly marched down the field, lead by a long pass from Bachmeier to Hightower. The following UH possession ended abruptly with a Kaniho strip and fumble recovery, ending in a Bachmeier-to-Hightower touchdown.
Hawaii quickly answered back on their next possession with a 46-yard pass and 17-yard touchdown strike. The Broncos drive down the field, but stall after a holding penalty and a dropped pass. Hawaii follows that up with a 3-and-out of their own, helped by penalties (totaling 8 for 68 yards).