The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
Football Team Getting Prepared For Panthers
9/11/2002 12:00:00β―AM | Football
Sept. 11, 2002
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.----- With only three days remaining before the University of Alabama at Birmingham takes on Big East foe Pittsburgh, the team practiced through yet another day of hot and humid practice conditions here Wednesday. The Blazers began practice at 3 p.m. in 96- degree heat, and when it ended just a little over two hours later, it was 94-degrees.
"We've been practicing in the mid-90's for the last couple of weeks," UAB head coach Watson Brown said. "(Wednesday) was not as hot as it was here yesterday, but, boy it is still hot out here."
Wednesday's practice concentrated on defensive assignments and positioning. Pittsburgh, who returns 15 offensive and defensive starters from last season's 7-5 team, brings a variety of multiple looks in its offense, making it important for the Blazers to have the correct assignments, according to Brown.
"Our main priority was making sure the right people had the right assignments," said Brown. "Pittsburgh brings a lot of different looks, so it's important we have the right match-ups, especially on the defensive side of the ball."
There was nothing new concerning the injury situation on Wednesday. There were no new injuries to report, and Brown feels he may have a few guys healing a little faster than expected. "(The injury situation) is getting better," said Brown. "(Offensive Lineman) Anthony Larry is getting better and so is Paul Linsky."
Backup quarterback Darrell Hackney (knee) and safety Thurman Pearson (ankle) are remain as questionable for the Pitt game.
The Blazers and Panthers will kick off at Legion Field at 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 14.
