UAB Football: Blazers Dismiss Head Coach Trent Dilfer
UAB has made a significant change in its football program by dismissing head coach Trent Dilfer. This decision comes as part of the university’s efforts to improve its on-field performance, which has not met expectations.
Coaching Changes at UAB Football
UAB Director of Athletics Mark Ingram announced the dismissal, highlighting the need to realign the program’s direction. “We agree that our on-field performance has not lived up to the standard of winning we have for the program,” Ingram stated in a press release.
Alex Mortensen, the team’s offensive coordinator, has been named as the interim head coach. A formal press conference is scheduled for Monday to discuss further details.
Trent Dilfer’s Tenure Overview
Dilfer’s time at UAB was marked by a challenging record. Over two and a half seasons, he held a record of 9 wins and 21 losses. His first season ended with a 4-8 mark, followed by a 3-9 record in the next year. This season, UAB has started with a 2-4 record and is currently on a three-game losing streak.
Performance Insights
- Dilfer’s first season: 4-8
- Second season: 3-9
- Current season: 2-4
During his tenure, the Blazers struggled significantly, especially on the road, with an 0-15 away game record. Eighteen of his losses were by double digits, showcasing a pattern of difficulties in both performance and consistency.
Background and Expectations
Before joining UAB, Dilfer coached at Lipscomb Academy in Nashville, achieving a 44-10 record. He lacked prior experience as a head coach at the collegiate level. Dilfer is a former NFL player, known for winning Super Bowl XXXV with the Baltimore Ravens.
As UAB Football moves forward, it will seek to improve its competitive edge and overcome the challenges faced under Dilfer’s leadership. The team is set to face rival Memphis next Saturday at 3 p.m. CT at Protective Stadium, an event that could become a pivotal moment in the new interim coaching era.
According to reports, Dilfer’s buyout is approximately $2.8 million. His departure reflects UAB’s commitment to establishing a successful future for its football program.
