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The second year for head coach Trent Dilfer leading the UAB Blazers begins by hosting the Alcorn State Braves.
The Braves square off with the Blazers at 8 p.m. Eastern on Thursday, August 29, at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala.
What's at Stake?
UAB looks to keep its streak of winning openers alive. It is 8-0 in openers since 2014 and has a 1-0 lead in the series with Alcorn State. This is a game that UAB can use as a tune-up for bigger games down the road. Alcorn State has visions of winning, but they will be happy with their paycheck and health.
Key Players for UAB
Offensively, the key player in this game, like just about all the games for UAB, is quarterback Jacob Zeno. Zeno is the nation's leading returner in completion percentage. At 73.6 percent, Zeno only trailed Bo Nix in that category. Zeno, a senior, is a clear-cut leader whose direction is to keep his team focused on a game everyone knows they will win.
On the defensive side of the ball, middle linebacker Michael Moore needs to set the tone of the year for the Blazers' defense. Moving from defensive end to middle linebacker midway through the year, Moore led the Blazers in tackles even though he missed the final two games. Like Zeno, Moore needs to lead the team in a game that should be in hand early.
Key Players for Alcorn State
The Braves will look for offensive production and turn to senior tight end Tavarious Griffin. The rangy Griffin was tied for the team lead in catches and touchdowns. Griffin will be a key target for a team looking for leadership on that side of the ball. This is true after their running back and quarterback graduated last year.
On defense, Alcorn State brings in an NFL-caliber player in Malachi Bailey. The two-time All-Southwestern Athletic Conference defensive lineman can cause havoc in any game. The Braves will look to Bailey to get in the backfield to disrupt Zeno and his quick pass setup.
Trends to Watch
The Blazers are trending up for a team that can make some noise in the American Athletic Conference. They are looking to improve on their four wins from last year. This is a game for the Blazers to get some work for their starters. But it's also going to allow for the backups to get in-game reps and action.
The Braves are starting a new era under head coach Cedric Thomas. A new coach's first game on the road usually spells a loss for that team. Thomas and the Braves are projected to win the SWAC this year with the talent they have coming back.
Broadcast Information
Date: Aug. 29
Time: 8 p.m. EST
Where: Protective Stadium, Birmingham, Ala.
TV: ESPN+
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