The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
Football Team Continues Tulane Preparations
9/14/2011 12:00:00 AM | Football
Sept. 14, 2011
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- The UAB football team practiced in helmets and shoulder pads on Wednesday at the UAB practice field as it continues preparations for the 2011 home opener against Tulane this Saturday. The Blazers and Green Wave are set to kick off at 3 p.m. CT at Legion Field.
UAB practiced for just over two hours on Wednesday, as the coaches continue to incorporate more of the Tulane gameplan. Head coach Neil Callaway said his team looled a little lackluster on Wednesday and needs to improve with just three days before the Blazers and Green Wave square off on the gridiron.
"I thought they were a little tired to be honest with you," Callaway said. "We were still able to get things done, but I think we need to have more pep in our step. We spent half the day working against each other and the other half working against the Tulane scout team. We need to come out here Thursday with more energy and get everything nailed down."
Callaway said the team has been preparing for an improved Tulane team. The fifth-year head coach said he has been especially impressed with the Green Wave defense when watching film, in particular junior linebacker Trent Mackey who ranks fourth in the NCAA in total tackles entering Saturday's contest.
"He just has a good nose for the ball," Callaway said. "He's just an active player who has good football instincts. Their two ends also do a great job rushing the quarterback. This is their third year under (Tulane defensive coordinator Steve Stanard) and you can tell they're really a tied together group."
The Blazers will return to the practice field Thursday morning for their final full practice of the week.
Saturday's contest will be carried live on the Blazer IMG Sports Network, airing locally on 107.7 WUHT-FM. David Crane and John Whitcomb will call the action with Sam Miller roaming the sidelines. The pregame show will start at 1:30 p.m.
