The UAB Blazers are making a change at head coach.
On Sunday evening, the Blazers fired head coach Trent Dilfer six games into his third season after a 2-4 start and, overall, a massively disappointing tenure.
The Blazers went 4-8 in 2023 before a 3-9 season in 2024, which had many fans calling for his exit after last season.
Dilfer was given another chance — but clearly with a shorter leash.
After the dominating loss to Florida Atlantic, administration decided that enough was enough.
“We have made a decision to part ways with Head Football Coach Trent Dilfer,” UAB Director of Athletics Mark Ingram said in a statement.
“We agree that — unfortunately — our on-field performance has not lived up to the standard of winning we have for the program. This decision will allow us to move forward in the best long-term interest of the program.”
Ingram announced that Alex Mortenson, UAB’s offensive coordinator since 2022, will step up as interim head coach.
“I wish Coach Dilfer the best and thank him for his class, tireless work and commitment during his tenure at UAB. While his efforts did not translate into a winning record, each young man who played for him will be a better person as a result.”
What UAB does next remains to be seen, but Dilfer never really had the full support of the fanbase and the next hire certainly must.
It has been shown that this program can be a winner with the right person in charge, making their next hire becomes absolutely critical as UAB finds itself at a crossroads.
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.
