The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
Football Team Gearing Up For Tulane
11/5/2003 12:00:00 AM | Football
Nov. 5, 2003
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.----- The UAB football team shortened its practiced to an hour and a half here Wednesday, making some final preparations for its game with Conference USA rival Tulane. The Blazers concentrated on game scenarios and worked out some game situations, while working out in pads and shorts.
"I thought practice went good," UAB head coach Watson Brown said. "We practiced better today than we did on Tuesday. We looked a little smoother on the Tulane game plan. We shortened practice this week because I thought we looked a little tired against Army. I didn't think we were as quick against Army as we have been in the previous four games. Hopefully this will give us a chance to get our legs back."
The Blazers defeated Army last Saturday, 24-9, snapping a two-game losing streak. UAB improved to 4-5 on the season and 3-2 in conference action. The Blazers had lost two close games to ranked opponents in the two weeks prior, losing to TCU, 27-24, before falling to Georgia, 16-13.
Tulane's offense is averaging 391.8 yards per game, including 128.8 yards on the ground. Running back Mewelde Moore, the preseason offensive player-of-the-year in Conference USA, has recorded five-straight 100-yard rushing games. Quarterback Losman is also playing well for the Green Wave. The senior is 200-of-333 attempts for 2,351 yards and 24 touchdowns.
UAB fell to Tulane last season, 35-14, on Oct. 19 in New Orleans. The Blazers hold a 2-1 advantage in the series and won the only previous game at Legion Field, beating the Green Wave, 34-27, on Oct. 20, 2001. Tulane will attempt to snap a five-game losing streak. The Green Wave fell to Navy, 35-17, on Nov. 1.
"I think we will be ready to play," continued Brown. "We have a lot to play for and any time you are finishing the year out with a lot to play for it makes it easier for me to motivate the team. Our guys seem to be pretty motivated."
The game against Tulane is this Saturday at 3 p.m. at Legion Field. It will mark the last home game of the season as four seniors, Wilbert Hamilton, Larry Coachman, Warren Butler and Artavious Williams finish out their Legion Field careers.
