Author: Jeff Martin
The UAB football team held their annual spring game on Saturday. This game meant much more though, as this was the team’s final game to be played in Legion Field.
The spring game proved to be interesting for everyone involved as the White Team defeated the Green Team 6-0 by scoring only two field goals.
What some may see as an unimpressive offensive performance was the result of a lack of depth on that side of the ball.
“If you look at our depth chart, we’re down about four tight ends and about two receivers which certainly has an effect on our quarterbacks,” said head coach Bill Clark when asked about the multiple quarterbacks’ play during the game.
Quarterbacks Tyler Johnston III, Bryson Lucero, Harrison Barker, Jalen Parker and Dylan Hopkins all played during the game and seemed fully capable of being a dangerous threat offensively.
Notably, Bryson Lucero had many completed passes in the second half and Jalen Parker showed his ability to be a dual-threat quarterback when under pressure.
There were also impressive performances from running backs DeWayne McBride and Lee Witherspoon.
With a lack of receivers, all eyes were on Ryan Davis, a wide receiver from Georgia who seemed to be targeted every time the ball was in the air.
On the defensive side of the ball, the team looked fantastic. They finished with an interception from cornerback Colby Dempsey and sacks from outside linebackers Alex Wright and Kelle Sanders.
The defensive line played well, forcing the ball to be thrown away on multiple possessions and leading to many punts in the game.
“When the front seven are strong, that leads to a strong secondary,” said Kelle Sanders.
Legion Field has been home to iconic football history even outside of UAB’s team success.
The Iron Bowl was held there until 1991, and the field is also home to the Birmingham Bowl. The stadium has also held Olympic soccer qualifying matches, and world cup victory tours. Obviously this stadium has had a rich history, and UAB’s chapter in it is coming to an end.
“It feels strange leaving here for the last time,” Clark said. “It was great to finish up on a great note.”
The Blazers will be moving to the new Protective Stadium in the uptown entertainment district. The stadium is currently in its final stages, and the Blazers will play their first home game there on October 2, 2021 against Liberty University.
