By Jaymes Song
The Associated Press

HONOLULU - Cincinnati coach Rick Minter knows his team has a tough task Saturday in containing Hawaii's run-and-shoot offense. But his concerns aren't just focused solely on events inside Aloha Stadium.

"Hawaii always has an advantage when teams come to them," Minter said. "It is a long trip and then you have to deal with the (time) difference. Then, the other team is wide-eyed with the surroundings."

The Hawaii Bowl-bound Warriors (8-2) have a five-game winning streak and are No. 1 in the nation in total offense (520.9 yards per game), second in passing offense (385.9 yards) and fifth in scoring offense (39.7 points).

"That just in itself is a major challenge. You put on top of that what it takes to go and the distractions, and then it only escalates the type of home-field advantage they really do enjoy," Minter said.

Hawaii has won its last eight home games, dating back to last season.

"It's home and I feel comfortable there," said Warriors quarterback Timmy Chang, who also played his high school football games at Aloha Stadium. "You get used to all the bumps and crevices and things like that. It's our place and we want to defend it with pride."

Chang has thrown for 3,322 yards and 19 touchdowns in 10 games this season. The sophomore from Honolulu has several small, speedy receivers to throw to, including Justin Colbert, Britton Komine and Nate Ilaoa.

"We make no bones about it, they're going to throw the football on us," Minter said. "This is the ultimate in spreading the field and throwing the football in a run-and-shoot style. So we have our work cut out for us."

The Bearcats (5-5) have been dominant recently, outscoring their opponents 119-38 in the last three games. They have turned their season around and are trying to keep their bowl hopes alive.

"They're a very talented team," Hawaii coach June Jones said. "I think, physically, they're the best team we've played this year, including Boise State."

Jones said his team will try to pressure Cincinnati quarterback Gino Guidugli, who threw for three scores last week against Houston. Guidugli's favorite target is LaDaris Vann, who has a 42-game reception streak.

Hawaii will also try to slow down running back DeMarco McCleskey, who has 941 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns this season.

"They're a good running team and a good passing team," Jones said. "We can't let them have the luxury of doing both things."

Minter said his offense needs to aid the defense by keeping Hawaii's passing game off the field.

"The offense needs to work the clock so our defense is rested and fresh," he said. "Also, that helps keep Timmy Chang on the bench."

Chang said he expects Cincinnati to come well-rested and prepared for Saturday. But would he encourage the Bearcats to enjoy their trip by experiencing the beaches and the nightlife in Waikiki?

"I hope they do," he said.