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On defense, the Blazers gave up yards in bunches and really struggled to defend the pass. Opponents averaged 312 yards passing/game in a conference that is filled with spread offenses. Nine players return on this side of the ball, giving UAB one of the most experienced defensive units in C-USA. FS Hiram Atwater was the team's only all-conference selection on the 1st or 2nd team after a 89 tackle performance last year. He leads a secondary that returns three full time starters and adds some junior college talent to help with depth. Improving on their numbers last season against the pass should not be an issue. The defensive line was respectable against the run in 2009 and have nearly their entire two deep back intact. DE Bryant Turner had a team high six sacks and has made 18 starts in his career. DT Elliott Henigan is another key player up front and recorded 9.5 tackles for loss a year ago. All three starters are back at linebacker and Lamanski Ware is the most talented of the bunch. His 71 tackles ranked second on the team. Special teams should be strong this year with the return of both the kicker and punter. Josh Zach connected on 14-21 field goals a year ago with a long of 51 yards.
The Blazers play two non-conference games against SEC opponents Tennessee and Mississippi State. Their conference opener takes place in Week 2 at SMU. The East division is open for the taking this year and if UAB wants to earn a trip to the conference title game they must defend their home turf. There is a three week stretch at the end of the year where the Blazers will play key match-ups at home. I believe this is coach Callaway's finest team yet and see a 7-5 record for the boys out of Birmingham.