The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
GameDay Guide: Navy, September 25
7/18/2026 10:32:00 AM | Football
Get ready for football season with our Game Day Guide series! Over the next several weeks, we'll walk you through everything you need to know before heading to Protective Stadium to cheer on the Blazers this fall.
Be sure to bookmark these articles so they're easy to find on game day. We'll continue updating them as kickoff approaches with the latest information, tips and important reminders.
And don't forget to visit BlazerGameday.com throughout the season for the most up-to-date game day information.
Go Blazers!
Salute to Service: UAB vs. Navy
Friday, Sept. 25 | 6 p.m. CT | ESPN | Protective Stadium
Series History: Navy leads series 3-0; in Birmingham, Navy leads 1-0Welcome Back to Protective Stadium
Friday night football returns to Protective Stadium as UAB hosts Navy in the 2026 Salute to Service game presented by Pepsi. The nationally televised matchup on ESPN brings together two proud programs for an evening dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served our country.Throughout the night, UAB Athletics will recognize members of the military, veterans and their families while celebrating the sacrifices made by those who protect our nation. Combined with one of college football's most respected traditions in Navy Football, the evening promises to be one of the most memorable home games of the season.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early, take part in the pregame festivities and help create an unforgettable atmosphere under the lights at Protective Stadium.
Shop at the UAB Bookstore and the UAB Football Team Store!
Game At A Glance
| Opponent | Navy |
| Date | Friday, Sept. 25 |
| Kickoff | 6 p.m. CT |
| Television | ESPN |
| Theme | Salute to Service |
| Entitlement Sponsor | Pepsi |
| Presenting Sponsor | Cahaba Federal Systems |
| Venue | Protective Stadium |
Why This Game Matters
Friday night lights meet one of college football's most unique traditions as UAB hosts Navy in a nationally televised American Conference showdown as a part of an ESPN college football triple-header.The Salute to Service game provides an opportunity for Blazer Nation to recognize active-duty military personnel, veterans and their families while cheering on the Blazers against one of the nation's most respected service academies.
Blazer Village
- Marine Forces Reserve Brass Band
- Blaze's Home Field Collection at the UAB Bookstore tent
Wear Your Blazer Gear
Blazer fans are encouraged to wear their favorite UAB gear and help create an electric atmosphere for Friday Night Football at Protective Stadium. Whether you're wearing green, gold, camouflage or your favorite Blazer jersey, show your support for UAB as the Blazers honor those who have served our country. Shop at the UAB Bookstore and the UAB Football Team Store!Special Ticket Offers
Military Appreciation
UAB Athletics is proud to recognize active-duty military members, veterans and their families with a special Military Appreciation ticket offer.For complete ticket information and availability, contact the UAB Athletics Ticket Office at tickets@uab.edu or calling at 205-975-UAB1.
Family Four Pack
Bring the entire family to Protective Stadium with the Family Four Pack, offering one of the best values for Friday night football.Game Day Traditions
Three Hots and a CotThis year's Salute to Service festivities will feature Three Hots and a Cot, recognizing military service members and celebrating those who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation.
- Military recognition
- Three Hots and a Cot
- Gridiron Greats
- Family Fun Zone
The UAB Marching Blazers will perform at halftime, followed by the Dr Pepper Tuition Toss.
- UAB students have an opportunity to win $10,000 at the Blazers' home football game on Sept. 25 against Navy by participating in the Dr Pepper® Tuition Toss Contest. Two lucky contestants will be chosen for the contest, and the winner will receive $10,000 in tuition, while the runner up gets $2,500. Stay tuned for registration to go live on UABSports.com and UAB social media channels.
Fan Checklist
Wear Your UAB Gear
Show your Blazer pride by wearing your favorite UAB apparel, jersey or camouflage-inspired gear.Shop Here | Jungle Sports
By The Numbers
| Number | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| 6 | Kickoff time |
| 2 | Second home game of the season |
| 250 | America 250 celebration |
| 1 | Salute to Service game |
See You At Protective
Friday night football returns to Protective Stadium as UAB hosts Navy in one of the most anticipated home games of the season.Join Blazer Nation as we celebrate our military community, enjoy an outstanding game day atmosphere and cheer on the Blazers under the lights.
Shop at the UAB Bookstore and the UAB Football Team Store!
Tuesday, July 14
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Wednesday, June 10
