UAB Makes 2 Announcements Before the Start of the Season

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As the Alabama-Birmingham Blazers head into Year 2 of the Trent Dilfer era, hopes are high for a successful season.

With the season quickly coming, the Blazers made two announcements to signify the start of the season.

UAB Blazers Start of Camp

The UAB athletic department announced that the Blazers will begin their season with its first official practice on July 30. The return of star quarterback Jacob Zeno spearheads coach Dilfer's second year. Zeno and his teammates will welcome 49 new members to the family, anywhere from transfers to recruits.

The Blazers kick off the season on Thursday, August 29, against Alcorn State at Protective Stadium. Starting time is set for 7 p.m. Central and the game will air on ESPN+.

Fan Fest Hits UAB

The UAB Blazers are holding their second annual Fan Fest on Saturday, August 17. To attend, you must go to the Legacy Pavillion at the Football Operations Center. Blazers fans can interact with players and collect the team's 2024 schedule poster.

The event will take place from 2-4 p.m. Central. This allows fans to get autographs from the team between 2-3 p.m. The kids will have entertainment with inflatables and other interactive games. Food trucks will be available for food and drink purchases.

Season Outlook

With Zeno back at quarterback, the Blazers look to impact the outcome of the American Athletic Conference. The Blazers lost top receiver Tehjuan Palmer, but have a packed receiver room with veterans. Look for big tight end Bryce Damous as a viable target for Zeno, especially in the controlled passing attack.

The offensive line needs to improve and cut down on sacks and tackles for a loss this season, but some reshuffling could do the trick.

Defensively, there was not a distinct pass rush and UAB was ranked 118th nationally. A critical transfer, Adrian Maddox from Alabama State, can bring continuity to the secondary. Linebacker Michale Moore is a heat-seeking missile who needs to take control of games when the Blazers have a chance and get off the field.

After the worst season since 2013, Dilfer is implementing his culture of winning. The Blazers will not be down long; I expect a much better UAB football team this season.