Blazers one week out from regular season opener

UAB basketball program adds two assistant coaches

Blazers continue preparations

By: UAB Athletic Media Relations | Alabama's13.com
Published: August 26, 2010

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- With exactly one week left before the opening game of the 2010 season, the UAB football team held a dress-rehearsal scrimmage on Thursday morning. It marked the final scrimmage of fall camp for the Blazers, who open the campaign on Sept. 2 against Florida Atlantic.

The situational scrimmage covered everything from warm-ups and pre-game routines to in-game substitutions. The teams were split up by players who are expected to see action next week against the scout team which ran FAU plays.

UAB head coach Neil Callaway feels good about what he saw out of his team on Thursday.

“I think it was good to put them in all the situations that we did,” Callaway said. “It was as game-like as we can get. Our scout team did a good job and gave a good effort, which means we got a lot out of it as far as going through certain situations. We also went through the pre-game routine, which was new for a lot of our guys. Hopefully it was a good day for us and we got a lot out of it.

“This scrimmage was different than the other scrimmages, special teams, particularly. I think you get a little clearer picture of some things. We had some minor issues of substitutions, but not like we’ve had in the past. I think it was good to be able to point out that we have to be sharp in transition from one phase of the game to the other.”

With only one week left before the Blazers’ home opener, Callaway feels confident about his team’s progress. Especially when talking about quarterback David Isabelle, who was recently named the starter for UAB.

“David worked extremely hard to win the spot,” Callaway said. “We didn’t make that decision until about a week ago and since then, he has really has stepped it up a notch. You want a quarterback who can run and throw the ball, but most important is game management. I think he’s done a good job with that and really stepped up the process as far as taking charge in the huddle and when behind the center.”

Callaway’s squad will be the first UAB team to open a season on a Thursday night. While the fourth-year head coach admits it is exciting, he also understands there is still a lot of work left to do.

“I think playing on Thursday will be good,” Callaway said. “I know our players like playing on a Thursday night and hopefully it will be good for our crowd. At the same time, there’s a lot we need to improve before then. By no means are we where we want to be, but as long as the kids keep working hard and improving, I think we’ll be fine.”

Kickoff for next Thursday’s season-opening contest is set for 7 p.m. at Legion Field.

Blazers one week out from regular season opener

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