The UAB Blazers’ struggles reached new lows this weekend as they were handed a demoralizing 41-10 defeat by the undefeated Army Black Knights at Michie Stadium. This loss added to a season already teetering on the edge of collapse, as the Blazers failed once again to perform on either side of the ball. Despite some early-season optimism that a turnaround was possible, particularly with hopes of a statement win over Army, UAB now heads back to Birmingham with yet another loss, a sinking morale, and almost no hope left to salvage their season.
Photo Cred: Army
Stepping in for the injured Jacob Zeno was Jalen Kitna, a former three-star recruit, tasked with leading the offense. Unfortunately, UAB’s troubles were evident from the very first offensive snap. The offensive line, which has struggled throughout the season, once again faltered, losing the battle in the trenches and leaving Kitna with little support. Kitna himself seemed out of sync, repeatedly making poor reads and struggling to find rhythm. By the time the final whistle blew, the Burleson High School product had racked up 242 passing yards, a single touchdown, and two costly interceptions—hardly the stat line needed to take down a conference rival on a hot streak.
On the ground, UAB’s rushing attack was equally lackluster. Lee Beebe Jr., the team’s star running back, had what was likely his most disappointing performance of the season, managing only 36 yards on nine carries without finding the end zone. For a player of his caliber, this was a particularly disheartening showing, as Army’s defense had no trouble containing him. The only bright spot in the Blazers’ offensive performance came from the receiving corps.
Freshman wideout Kam Shanks showed flashes of brilliance, leading all receivers with nine catches for 119 yards. His athleticism and playmaking ability were some of the few highlights in an otherwise dismal day for the Blazers. Sophomore receiver Amare Thomas also added a late touchdown, hauling in an eight-yard pass in the fourth quarter, but by then, the game was already out of reach. Defensively, UAB’s woes continued to deepen, particularly in their efforts—or lack thereof—to stop Army’s relentless ground game.
Photo Cred: Army
The Blazers were completely outmatched, allowing a staggering 413 rushing yards and five touchdowns. The defensive line, which has been under scrutiny all season, was particularly ineffective in the first half, as Army’s offensive scheme repeatedly gashed them with little resistance. By the time the game was over, UAB’s defense had once again proven incapable of containing the run, a troubling theme that has persisted all season.
With this latest loss, UAB’s once-promising hopes of competing for a conference title have all but evaporated. The team has now suffered three significant losses, all of which were winnable games had the coaching staff implemented better game plans and made the necessary adjustments. Instead, poor preparation and questionable decision-making have become the hallmarks of this season.
Head coach Trent Dilfer, who was once seen as a potential leader to steer the program in a positive direction, appears disengaged, and the players, drained from underperforming week after week, are visibly worn down. All three phases of the team—offense, defense, and special teams—are operating well below expectations. It seems inevitable that change is on the horizon for UAB, with significant offseason moves likely in the coaching staff and leadership positions. Barring a miraculous turnaround, UAB’s 2024 campaign will be remembered as one of squandered potential and disappointing performances.
