UAB Football Preview 2026: It's Alex Mortensen's Program Now

UAB Football Preview 2026: It's Alex Mortensen's Program Now frames the Blazers’ rebuilding phase under a new head-coach era following years of instability. UAB had returned from a self-imposed break in 2017 and, under Bill Clark, won 43 games in five seasons before he retired. Bryant Vincent then took over, compiling a 7-6 record and a bowl win, but the program’s leadership moved on to Trent Dilfer as UAB transitioned from Conference USA to the American Athletic Conference. Dilfer went 9-21 and was dropped during last year, prompting Alex Mortensen to step up from offensive coordinator. The 2026 outlook centers on laying a foundation rather than quick fixes, with a ground game emphasized and the transfer portal expected to help. Quarterback depth includes Ryder Burton, who threw seven touchdown passes and five interceptions after replacing Jalen Kitna. The key weaknesses highlighted are turnovers and a passing attack impacted by losses of top wideouts Iverson Hooks and Xavier Daisy.