Ex-Raven Joins Hawaii Staff as GA

Mike Smith shares the nation’s most common surname. But, to be sure, the University of Hawai’i football team’s newest graduate assistant is unique. “He was one of the toughest linebackers I’ve ever coached,” Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach said of Smith. “He did it the hard way. He became a player through great determination, which, I think, says a lot about him. He’ll be a good teacher. I can’t say enough good things about him.” Smith comes to the Warriors with a decorated resume. He was a four-year starter — two as team captain — at Texas Tech. He played four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, serving as All-Pro Ray Lewis’ backup, before negotiating a medical buyout last summer. He officially retired two months ago. – Honolulu Advertiser