'Iolani's recent football victories over defending Division I state champion Punahou last Friday and perennial DI powerhouse Kamehameha on Sept. 5 have ignited debate again about why the Raiders are in Division II to begin with.

But 'Iolani coach Wendell Look has maintained that this year's success against DI teams is "unusual," and the numbers back his claim:

Since the Interscholastic League of Honolulu went to classification in 2001, the Raiders are 5-23 against ILH DI teams (Kamehameha, Punahou and Saint Louis). Last Friday's 35-12 victory was 'Iolani's first over the Buffanblu in eight seasons, snapping an eight-game losing streak.

The 20-17 win over Kamehameha was the Raiders' first over the Warriors since 1998 — a 12-game span.

The enrollments of Kamehameha and Punahou each are almost double that of 'Iolani's, and roster comparisons show further differences:

Only six of the Raiders' 64 players weigh over 200 pounds. Kamehameha and Punahou each have 23 players (out of 72 on each roster) over 200 pounds, and 29 out of Saint Louis' 89 players tip the scales at over 200.

The three ILH DI teams also have had the benefit of JV programs since 2005; 'Iolani last fielded a JV team in 1998, which means its players make the jump from intermediate straight to varsity.

So — how are the Raiders doing it?

"It starts with coaching," said Punahou coach Kale Ane, "and then there's the spirit of the players."

Embodying that spirit last Friday was junior defensive back Reid Saito, who made three interceptions including a pivotal third-quarter pick that he returned 57 yards for a touchdown. It came soon after the Buffanblu had scored on a safety and field goal to close to 21-12, after they began the second half trailing 21-7.

"The momentum was shifting after the safety," Look said.

Saito's other interceptions came in the fourth quarter — one near midfield and one in the end zone. Both came on acrobatic dives.

"We're just playing team 'D,' " Saito said. "Everybody's playing well."

Defensive end Greg Lum (5 feet 10, 185 pounds) recovered a fumble and returned it 68 yards for a touchdown with 7:28 remaining in the game, and defensive back Austin Slade-Matautia recovered another fumble with under 90 seconds left to seal the victory.

Defensive back Sean Nada had another interception earlier, and defensive tackle Seali'i Epenesa contributed with a fumble recovery.

Look said Epenesa (6-2, 315) and fellow tackle Kaena Moose (6-1, 270) provide a rare physical presence.

"We're in a situation this year where we actually have some size up front, and that is unusual," Look said. "But the whole group competes well."

Look acknowledged the schedule has been favorable this season: Each of 'Iolani's three league games against DI opponents is followed by a DII matchup. Last year, the Raiders had to face Saint Louis, Kamehameha and Punahou in succession.

"We practice to put ourselves in a situation to compete against anybody, and these kids have been amazing," Look said. "But it's tough to play those three (DI) teams in a row. It takes a physical toll."