Hawaii KO'd

By Brad Wilson | AP News Updated: Dec. 16, 2025, 11:42 p.m.

TOLEDO, Ohio — Tucker Gleason threw for 312 yards and two touchdowns, ran for two more scores and led Toledo to a 31-28 upset of top-ranked Hawaii on Saturday night at the Glass Bowl.

Dylan Cunanan drilled a 42-yard field goal as time expired to cap one of the biggest wins in program history and shake up the conference race. Toledo entered the night winless, while Hawaii arrived unbeaten and ranked No. 1.

“This is why you play the game,” Toledo Coach Holjes said. “Our guys believed, and they never backed down.”

The matchup lived up to expectations as a quarterback duel. Hawaii’s Micah Alejado completed 34 of 43 passes for 340 yards and four touchdowns, repeatedly attacking Toledo’s secondary. But his lone interception — thrown late in the fourth quarter — set up the Rockets’ final drive.

Gleason responded by marching Toledo down the field, converting multiple third downs before Cunanan’s kick split the uprights with two seconds remaining.

“Gleason was fearless,” the Toledo coach said. “He went toe-to-toe with one of the best quarterbacks in the country and delivered when it mattered most.”

Toledo found balance on offense, something Hawaii struggled to establish. The Rainbow Warriors finished with just 36 rushing yards on 12 carries, allowing Toledo’s defense to focus on defending the pass late.

Landon Simms led Hawaii with 10 catches for 90 yards and a touchdown, while Eric Holley III paced Toledo with five receptions for 112 yards and a score. Chip Trayanum added a receiving touchdown and provided steady production in the short passing game.

Hawaii (1-1) was favored by nearly two touchdowns but struggled to pull away despite Alejado’s efficiency. The loss ends the Rainbow Warriors’ brief stay atop the rankings and raises questions about offensive balance moving forward.

Toledo (1-1) earned a signature victory that reenergizes the East Division race and reinforces the unpredictability of conference play.

“You can’t overlook anyone in this league,” Hawaii Coach Hultgren said. “Tonight proved that.”

The Rockets celebrated on the field long after the final kick, having delivered a result that reshapes the early-season landscape.