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BIIF football preview: New Hilo quarterback aims high

Hilo quarterback Ka‘ale Tiogangco already has a dream college picked out because his role model went there: University of Oregon, the former home of Marcus Mariota.

The 5-foot-10, 160-pound junior hopes to follow in the Tennessee Titans QB’s footsteps, and not just his career path.

“I’m inspired by his humbleness and being a great leader,” Tiogangco said. “He’s very respectful. I look up to him in every way.”

It’s rather noteworthy that the Viking first-year starter mentioned Mariota’s character first before his skill-set of passing and running, similar fundamentals necessary in Hilo’s pistol offense.

Tiogangco, who was on the junior varsity last year, has been described as a “natural QB” by Hilo co-head coach Kaeo Drummondo and offensive coordinator Danny Saragosa for his smooth mechanics and tendency to go through his progressions on passing plays, instead of ditching the pocket at the first hint of pressure.