Aug. 5, 2008

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The UAB football team went through its second preseason practice Tuesday in preparation for the 2008 season. The Blazers practiced for more than two hours in the hot sun and 90-plus degree temperatures.

UAB head coach Neil Callaway saw improvement in the team from the first practice to the second practice. In particular, Callaway thought the defense stood out and had a solid day of practice.

"I thought we did better than yesterday," said Callaway. "I thought defensively, on 11-on-11 drills, we really stepped it up.

"The defense competed and really did a lot of nice things. Offensively, I thought it was fine, but the defense really stepped it up a notch."

Callaway also had a few individuals catch his eye, especially some key defensive players that will be crucial to the Blazers' success this season.

"Will Dunbar had a good day," said Callaway. "Ugonna (Amarikwa) make a couple of good plays. Even though they don't have on pads, I thought the defensive linemen's get off and rushing the quarterback was good."

Wednesday's practice will be the first time the Blazers strap on their shoulder pads this season. They will begin practice in full pads on Friday.

"There will be more collisions tomorrow," said Callaway. "We try not to have collisions up to this point. At least half of the drills that we do tomorrow will be collision drills."

UAB is gearing up for its 2008 season opener against Tulsa on Aug. 30. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. CT at Legion Field.