Tennessee QB Saga: College football witnessed one of the most dramatic quarterback exits in recent memory.
The Shocking Departure
Nobody saw it coming, but everyone should have.
In the era of NIL deals and transfer portal drama, Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel stood at a podium Saturday afternoon, addressing the elephant not in the room: Star quarterback Nico Iamaleava had practically vanished from the program.
“Man, listen, it’s the state of college football,” Heupel told reporters with the resolute calmness of someone who’d seen this movie before. “At the end of the day, no one is ever bigger than the program. That includes me, too.”
What followed was the unraveling of a relationship that had been built on promise, potential, and apparently, a price tag that suddenly changed:
Iamaleava was in contract negotiations for a new NIL deal on Thursday
The redshirt sophomore no-showed practice Friday morning
He didn’t communicate with Tennessee coaches throughout Friday
By Saturday morning, Heupel and the Vols were “moving on”
The modern college athlete isn’t just playing for passion—they’re negotiating their value in real-time.
Players now understand their market worth and aren’t afraid to leverage it.
When negotiations break down, the consequences aren’t just financial—they’re program-altering.
The Rising Star Who Fell to Earth
Just months ago, Nico Iamaleava represented Tennessee football’s brightest future.
The five-star prospect arrived in Knoxville with expectations as towering as his 6’6″ frame. Ranked as the No. 1 overall prospect in the On3 ratings, Iamaleava wasn’t just another talented quarterback—he was the cornerstone of Tennessee’s championship ambitions.
His freshman season showed flashes of brilliance:
2,616 passing yards in 13 games
19 touchdowns against only 5 interceptions
A career-high 314 yards in the season-opener
63.8% completion percentage
What makes this departure so stunning isn’t just the talent walking out the door—it’s the suddenness with which it happened.
The New Reality of College Sports
Contract negotiations have replaced scholarship offers as the primary currency of college athletics.
This shift has transformed how programs and players interact, creating a professional dynamic within an ostensibly amateur framework. When Iamaleava reportedly entered negotiations for a new NIL deal, he wasn’t being greedy—he was participating in the new normal.
But there are unwritten rules even in this wild west environment:
Show up to practice while negotiations continue
Communicate with coaches when issues arise
Remember the team still comes first
Understand that leverage works both ways
The failure to honor these principles led to what insiders describe as Heupel’s decision to move forward without his star quarterback.
What Happens Next?
Tennessee football now stands at a crossroads with two young quarterbacks holding the program’s immediate future.
Jake Merklinger, a redshirt freshman, and George MacIntyre, a true freshman, suddenly find themselves thrust into a spotlight neither expected this early. Both were four-star prospects with promising futures, but neither has taken a meaningful snap in college football.
“We got two guys in that room, excited to go watch them go play,” Heupel said, masking whatever disappointment or frustration might lie beneath his coach-speak exterior. “They’ve had a really good spring, grown throughout it.”
The coming days will reveal more about this dramatic separation:
Iamaleava plans to enter the transfer portal when it opens Wednesday
Reports suggest he wasn’t the only player considering financial ultimatums
Tennessee must now rebuild around inexperienced signal-callers
The college football world watches to see which program will offer Iamaleava his price
One sentence captures it all: When Josh Heupel said no one is bigger than the program, he wasn’t just making a statement—he was setting a precedent for college football’s new reality.
A to Z Sports breaks down the family and school dynamics that led to this. LINK
The South Florida Bulls aren’t rebuilding anymore—they’re reloading.
After posting a 7-6 record in 2024 and winning a marathon five-overtime Hawaii Bowl thriller against San Jose State, Coach Alex Golesh’s squad has transformed from a perennial doormat to a legitimate conference threat. The bowl victory wasn’t just a feel-good ending to a solid season—it was a declaration that USF football has officially awakened from its half-decade slumber.
But the real question facing Bulls fans now isn’t whether their team can reach another bowl game.
It’s whether USF is ready to challenge for an American Athletic Conference championship.
The 2024 Breakthrough Nobody Saw Coming
Last season marked a dramatic shift in South Florida’s football fortunes.
A 7-6 overall record (4-4 in AAC play) ended a streak of four consecutive losing seasons
The offense exploded for 32.2 points per game (33rd nationally)
Record-breaking performances included 425 rushing yards against Charlotte and 715 total yards versus Tulsa
A Hawaii Bowl victory that required five overtimes became the longest bowl game in FBS history
“We’re finally establishing the foundation of what this program can be,” Golesh told reporters after the Hawaii Bowl. “This isn’t a finished product by any means, but we’ve taken significant steps forward.”
The 2024 campaign wasn’t just about wins and losses but about creating a new identity.
Byrum Brown: The Dual-Threat Engine That Powers Everything
Quarterback stability changes everything for a college football program.
Brown returns for his third season after setting multiple school records when he was healthy.
Despite playing just 6 games in 2024, he compiled 836 passing yards with a 59.1% completion rate.
His dual-threat capabilities make USF’s offense particularly difficult to prepare for
The team’s offensive production jumped dramatically in games Brown started and finished.
When examining the statistical differences between USF’s wins and losses last season, one trend is becoming increasingly clear. When the offense clicked (485.1 yards per game in victories vs. 317.3 in defeats), the Bulls became nearly unstoppable.
Brown’s health might be the most crucial factor in determining USF’s 2025 ceiling.
The Transfer Portal Cavalry Has Arrived
The Bulls attacked the transfer portal with surgical precision this offseason.
Offensive Line Reinforcements: Stanford transfer Connor McLaughlin (6’7″, 260 lbs) and Appalachian State transfer Thomas Shrader (6’5″, 305 lbs) bring immediate size and experience
Backfield Boost: Charlotte transfer Cartevious Norton (RB, 5’11”, 210 lbs) provides a power-running complement
Defensive Upgrades: Wisconsin transfer Jonas Duclona (DB) and Texas A&M transfer Josh Celiscar (DE, 6’4″, 230 lbs) address the pass defense issues
Special Teams Overhaul: New kicker Adam Zouagui (Davidson) and punter Chase Leon (Lamar) fix last season’s inconsistent specialists
“We identified specific needs and targeted players who can make immediate impacts,” Golesh said regarding the transfer strategy. “It’s about finding the right fits culturally while addressing positional gaps evident last season.”
The transfer additions aren’t just depth pieces—they’re potential game-changers at critical positions.
The 2025 Schedule: Early Tests, Conference Opportunities
USF’s path to contention features both landmines and golden opportunities.
Non-Conference Challenges:
Aug. 28: vs. Boise State (Season Opener at Raymond James Stadium)
Sept. 6: at Florida
Sept. 13: at Miami
Sept. 20: vs. South Carolina State
AAC Home Opportunities:
Charlotte (defeated 59-24 in 2024)
Florida Atlantic (defeated 44-21 in 2024)
UTSA
Rice
AAC Road Battles:
North Texas
Memphis
Navy
UAB
The early-season gauntlet against Boise State, Florida, and Miami provides statement opportunities that could supercharge the program’s momentum—or expose lingering weaknesses.
Fixing The Defense: USF’s Championship Roadblock
The glaring weakness that kept USF from greater heights last season wasn’t hard to identify.
The defense surrendered 29.8 points per game (99th nationally)
Opponents averaged 278.8 passing yards per game against the Bulls secondary
The -0.5 turnover margin per game prevented the team from controlling close contests
Even in victories, the defense rarely dominated opponents
“Defensively, we’re not where we need to be yet,” Golesh acknowledged. “That’s an area where we simply have to make substantial improvements if we want to compete for championships.”
The additions of Duclona, Celiscar, and Charlotte transfer Dre Butler (DL, 6’5″, 280 lbs) directly address these defensive vulnerabilities.
Whether these reinforcements can transform the unit will determine if USF is merely competitive or truly dangerous in 2025.
5 Keys To USF Becoming AAC Champions
For South Florida to make the leap from surprising bowl team to championship contender, five critical developments must occur:
QB Stability: Byrum Brown must remain healthy for all 12+ games while continuing his development as a passer
Defensive Evolution: The defense needs to trim at least 7-8 points from its points-allowed average (29.8 in 2024)
Turnover Improvement: Championship teams typically win the turnover battle, not lose it (USF was -0.5 per game in 2024)
Road Warrior Mentality: With tough trips to Florida, Miami, Memphis, and Navy, the Bulls must improve on last year’s 3-3 road record
Transfer Integration: The new additions must assimilate quickly, particularly on the offensive line and in the defensive secondary
The margin between 7-5 and 10-2 in college football often comes down to execution in these fundamental areas.
Winning close games separates champions from also-rans.
The Bottom Line: Bulls Are Charging Up The AAC Hierarchy
South Florida football has evolved from afterthought to contender in just two seasons under Alex Golesh.
With Byrum Brown directing an offense with explosive potential, improved protection from transfer offensive linemen, and defensive reinforcements addressing the team’s primary weaknesses, USF has positioned itself as a legitimate threat to win 8-9 games and compete for an AAC championship game berth.
“We’re building something that isn’t just about one good season,” Golesh emphasized after the Hawaii Bowl victory. “This is about establishing a program that competes for championships year after year. We’ve taken steps, but the journey is just beginning.”
For a program that wandered through the football wilderness for half a decade, that journey now has a clear direction.
The Bulls aren’t just back—they’re hunting bigger prey.
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The Tulsa Golden Hurricane is about to rise from the ashes of a disastrous 2024 campaign.
After limping to a 3-9 record (1-7 in AAC play) and fielding one of the worst defensive units in college football last season, Tulsa decided to dismiss Kevin Wilson after just two seasons at the helm. In his place steps Tre Lamb, a 35-year-old coaching wunderkind with a proven track record of program transformation and a reputation for quick turnarounds.
The question on everyone’s mind: Can Lamb resurrect a program that ranked 131st out of 133 FBS teams in total defense last year?
The Pain Points That Derailed 2024
Defensive collapse doesn’t begin to describe what happened to Tulsa football last season.
The Golden Hurricane surrendered a staggering 496.8 yards per game, with their pass defense leaking 316.0 yards per contest through the air. These weren’t just bad numbers—they represented a complete defensive meltdown that undermined any chance of competitive play in the American Athletic Conference.
The 2024 season featured three exhilarating wins:
A 62-28 demolition of Northwestern State in the season opener
A heart-stopping 23-20 overtime victory against Louisiana Tech
A thrilling 46-45 Homecoming triumph over UTSA that gave fans momentary hope
But these bright spots were overwhelmed by crushing defeats that exposed Tulsa’s vulnerability:
A 45-10 dismantling by Oklahoma State that wasn’t even as close as the score suggests
A 49-7 annihilation by Army that highlighted fundamental defensive deficiencies
A season-ending 63-16 embarrassment against Florida Atlantic sealed Wilson’s fate
Nothing less than a complete defensive rebuild will suffice for 2025.
Why Tre Lamb Might Be The Perfect Solution
Tre Lamb doesn’t just build football programs—he transforms them with shocking speed.
Born September 16, 1989, in Calhoun, Georgia, Lamb arrives in Tulsa with an impressive résumé that showcases his ability to engineer immediate turnarounds. His coaching journey reveals a consistent pattern:
At Tennessee Tech, as offensive coordinator, he helped elevate the team from consecutive two-win seasons to a respectable 6-6 record in 2019
During his Gardner-Webb tenure (2020-2023), he delivered back-to-back conference championships and the program’s first-ever FCS playoff victory.
Most recently at East Tennessee State, he flipped a 3-8 team into a 7-5 contender in just one season.
Athletic Director Justin Moore couldn’t hide his enthusiasm when announcing Lamb’s hiring, stating, “He is young, energetic, and a proven winner. We feel he is exactly who we need to lead our program and restore a tradition of winning for Tulsa in this new era of college football.”
Though his 27-25 overall record (1-2 in NCAA Division I playoffs) comes primarily at the FCS level, Lamb’s consistent ability to revitalize struggling programs makes him an intriguing bet for a Tulsa program desperate for new energy.
His arrival represents more than just a coaching change—it signals the dawn of a new era.
The Coaching Brain Trust Built For Rapid Change
Lamb isn’t tackling this rebuilding project alone.
The new head coach has assembled a staff combining youthful energy with tactical expertise, each member carefully selected to address Tulsa’s most glaring weaknesses:
Ty Darlington (Co-Offensive Coordinator/Tight Ends Coach) adds schematic flexibility
Josh Reardon (Defensive Coordinator/Safeties Coach) faces the monumental task of rebuilding Tulsa’s porous defense
Mike Gray (Co-Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers Coach) provides additional defensive expertise
Kam Martin (Associate Head Coach/Running Backs Coach) rounds out the leadership team
This staff faces the complex challenge of implementing new systems while maximizing the talents of returning players and newcomers.
Their success will ultimately determine whether Lamb’s first season becomes the foundation for a program renaissance or just another false start.
Roster Reconstruction: The Talent Influx
No turnaround happens without an influx of new talent.
Tulsa’s 2025 roster reconstruction follows a dual approach, balancing high school recruiting with strategic transfer portal additions to address immediate needs and build for the future.
The Golden Hurricane secured 14 high school signees, with several standouts poised to make an impact:
Javion Antai (OL, 6’4″, 285 lbs) brings local talent and tremendous size from Jenks High School, OK
Hudson Ball (DE, 6’2″, 240 lbs) arrives from Shiloh Christian High School, AR, targeting Tulsa’s desperate need for defensive playmakers
Banks Bowen (QB, 6’3″, 208 lbs) represents the future under center, coming from Lawrence High School, KS
Even more promising are the immediate-impact transfers joining the program:
Micah Tease (WR) brings SEC-level athleticism from Texas A&M
Sevion Morrison (RB) provides Big 12 experience after his stint at Kansas
Byron Turner Jr. (DE) arrives from Florida State as a potential defensive game-changer
Integrating these new pieces—particularly the transfer portal additions on defense—will be crucial to any year-one improvement under Lamb’s leadership.
Their development represents the first test of the new coaching staff’s player development abilities.
Cleaning Up The NIL Mess
Behind the scenes, Tulsa must address the NIL controversy that plagued the program throughout 2024.
Multiple players, including quarterback Cooper Legas and linebacker Myles Jackson, publicly alleged that former coach Kevin Wilson made verbal promises regarding NIL compensation that were never fulfilled. Wilson denied these claims, creating a cloud of distrust that potentially affected team morale and performance.
To prevent similar issues moving forward, Tulsa has established more robust NIL frameworks:
Partnerships with platforms like INFLCR and Opendorse to facilitate legitimate sponsorship connections
Creation of the Golden Hurricane Exchange to connect student-athletes with potential sponsors
Establishment of Hurricane Impact, an independent nonprofit collective, to solicit and distribute NIL funds
How Lamb and the administration navigate this evolving landscape will significantly impact their ability to attract and retain top talent.
In today’s college football ecosystem, effective NIL management isn’t optional—it’s essential for program stability and competitive recruiting.
The 2025 Schedule: A Balanced Opportunity
Tulsa’s 12-game slate offers a strategic mix of challenges and opportunities.
For the first time since 2004, all six home games at H.A. Chapman Stadium are scheduled for Saturday kickoffs, creating consistency for fans and players alike. These key matchups will likely shape the season’s trajectory:
August 30: Season opener vs. Abilene Christian (home)
September 6: Early road test at New Mexico State
November 15: Historic first-ever meeting with Oregon State (home)
This balanced schedule provides Lamb’s program with winnable non-conference games to build momentum while offering measurement opportunities against higher-caliber opposition.
How the Golden Hurricane performs in these contests will offer the first objective evidence of whether Lamb’s rebuilding project is ahead of schedule, on track, or facing unexpected hurdles.
Five Keys To Unlocking 2025 Success
Tulsa’s path from 3-9 doormat to competitive program requires five improvements.
Defensive Resurrection Nothing matters more than fixing a defense that ranked near the bottom nationally in nearly every statistical category. Coordinators Reardon and Gray must implement schemes that maximize available talent while masking inevitable deficiencies during this rebuilding phase.
Transfer Integration The transfer portal additions must acclimate quickly and perform above their previous levels, particularly on defense, where immediate impact is required to remain competitive.
Offensive Identity Establishment Developing a clear, consistent offensive approach that plays to the roster’s strengths is essential in a conference known for offensive firepower. Tulsa cannot afford offensive inconsistency with its defensive limitations.
Cultural Transformation Lamb must change the program’s culture and expectations, leveraging his track record of rapid turnarounds to instill belief in players accustomed to defeat.
NIL Infrastructure Development Creating transparent, effective NIL processes will help attract and retain talent while avoiding the controversies that plagued the previous regime.
Success in 2025 doesn’t necessarily mean a championship season but establishing these foundational elements for sustainable program growth.
The metrics for year one success should be measured in competitiveness rather than wins and losses.
Realistic Expectations For Hurricane Fans
Patience might be the most important virtue for Tulsa supporters in 2025.
While Lamb’s history of rapid turnarounds provides cause for optimism, Golden Hurricane fans should maintain measured expectations. The defensive holes are too numerous, and the cultural changes too fundamental, to expect an overnight transformation from 3-9 to conference contention.
Consider these benchmarks for a successful 2025 campaign:
Achieving bowl eligibility (6-6) would represent significant progress
Defensive improvement from 131st nationally to top-100 would signal real growth
Competitive play in AAC contests, even in defeat, would demonstrate culture change
Player development is visible through individual statistical improvement
Recruiting momentum building toward the 2026 class
Establishing a foundation of competitive play and demonstrating clear progress throughout the season will be more important than the win total.
Every rebuilding project requires realistic timeline expectations—even for a coach with Lamb’s track record of quick fixes.
The New Hurricane Warning
A storm is brewing in Tulsa that might blow away years of mediocrity.
In Tre Lamb, the Golden Hurricane has secured a young, energetic coach with a demonstrated knack for program building and a history of exceeding expectations. With a strategic influx of talent through both high school recruitment and the transfer portal, coupled with a manageable schedule featuring six home games, the pieces are in place for Tulsa to begin its climb back toward relevance.
While 2025 represents just the first step in a longer journey, it offers something that the program has been missing for years: legitimate hope.
The Tre Lamb era begins now, and with it comes the potential for a Golden Hurricane resurgence that transforms a team from punching bag to puncher.
Football in Tulsa might just be fun again.
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In today’s reactive world, genuine leadership has become increasingly rare.
When Florida Gators men’s basketball coach Todd Golden faced serious misconduct allegations before the season, Athletic Director Scott Stricklin had a critical choice to make:
Take the easy path and suspend Golden immediately to protect the university’s reputation
Stand firm in the principles of due process and support his coach while the investigation unfolds
Bow to external pressure demanding immediate action
Risk his own career by refusing to rush to judgment
Trust that the truth would eventually emerge
Your ability to lead isn’t measured during times of prosperity, but in moments of intense pressure and scrutiny. Most leaders crumble when faced with public outrage and cancel culture. But the greatest leaders understand that true courage means standing by your principles when it would be easier not to. This is exactly what Scott Stricklin did for Todd Golden and the Florida Gators.
Stricklin’s Bold Stance Against Cancel Culture
According to Orlando Sentinel’s Mike Bianchi, Stricklin’s approach was nothing short of revolutionary in our current climate.
The easy move would have been immediate suspension. After all, nobody predicted the Gators would become a national championship contender. The stakes seemed low, and the potential PR damage high.
But Stricklin chose a different path.
He allowed the investigation to proceed without prejudgment, keeping Golden in his position despite the serious nature of the allegations. This wasn’t just a basketball decision—it was a moral one.
The Athletic Director’s Powerful Explanation
Stricklin recently explained his decision-making process to Bianchi with remarkable clarity.
“Both morally and legally, it was the right thing to do,” Stricklin stated. “Anyone can make an allegation, but it doesn’t mean it’s true. He [Golden] has rights just like the people who make allegations have rights. And so there’s a process and we followed that process.”
This single sentence reveals everything you need to know about Stricklin’s character.
The Foundation of Trust That Made It Possible
Why was Stricklin able to stand firm when others would have folded?
It came down to a foundation of trust built over time:
Golden had consistently demonstrated honesty since their first meeting
Stricklin had developed a leadership philosophy built on investing in people
He understood that even successful individuals occasionally face challenges
He remembered Billy Donovan’s wisdom that great coaches overcome adversity without distraction
“Todd has been completely honest and truthful since I first met him and I had no reason to think that was any different in this situation,” Stricklin explained.
The Lesson Every Leader Should Take Away
The next time you’re faced with a crisis, remember Scott Stricklin.
Instead of reacting to public pressure, he stayed true to his principles and allowed due process to unfold. Rather than protecting his own reputation at all costs, he risked it by standing by his coach.
As Stricklin himself said, “You’re investing in people. And I have a lot of faith in our people.”
That’s what real leadership looks like.
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College football programs that can’t stop opponents from scoring, like North Texas, are doomed to mediocrity.
North Texas has been the perfect case study of this football truth for years—an offensive juggernaut repeatedly undermined by a defense that couldn’t stop a nosebleed. The Mean Green’s 2024 campaign told the familiar tale: a 6-7 overall record (3-5 in AAC play) that ended with a 30-28 loss to Texas State in the First Responder Bowl, another shootout that slipped through their fingers.
But everything could change in 2025.
The Hiring Decision That Could Alter The Program’s Trajectory
One man stands at the center of North Texas’s potential transformation.
Skyler Cassity, a 30-year-old defensive mastermind hired in December 2024, arrives in Denton with credentials that should excite even the most jaded Mean Green supporters. His 2024 Sam Houston defense ranked:
20th nationally in total defense
11th in pass defense
21st in scoring defense (21.0 PPG)
Top 10 in third-down stops, red zone defense, and fourth-down conversion rate
What makes Cassity’s arrival truly compelling isn’t just his statistical success—it’s his proven ability to engineer rapid defensive turnarounds.
At Sam Houston, he transformed a 3-9 team in 2023 into a 9-3 contender in 2024, with defense as the cornerstone. Before that, he built back-to-back top-35 FCS defenses at Abilene Christian (2022-23), establishing himself as one of college football’s brightest young defensive minds with each stop.
The question isn’t whether Cassity knows how to build an elite defense—he does.
Why North Texas Has Been Stuck In Football Purgatory
Offensive brilliance and defensive incompetence create the perfect recipe for entertaining yet frustrating football.
Under head coach Eric Morris, an Air Raid disciple now entering his third season, the Mean Green offense has been nothing short of spectacular:
33.5 points per game (23rd nationally)
488.8 yards per game (top 15 in FBS)
328.2 passing yards per game
Multiple dynamic playmakers led by WR Damon Ward Jr.
However, while the offense soared, the defense sank to embarrassing depths:
34.2 points allowed per game (119th in FBS)
460.5 total yards allowed per game
A red zone touchdown rate among the worst nationally
Seven games allowing 35+ points
These defensive failures became so glaring that Morris fired defensive coordinator Matt Caponi in November 2024, elevating Brian Odom to interim DC. Even that midseason shake-up produced only marginal improvements—not nearly enough to prevent another 30-point defensive surrender in the bowl loss.
North Texas had become the football equivalent of a sports car with no brakes.
The Cassity Defensive System: Why It Could Work In Denton
Skyler Cassity’s defensive approach centers on creating chaos through disguise and discipline.
His preferred 3-3-5 base alignment is engineered to counter the spread offenses dominating the American Athletic Conference. The system features:
Multiple fronts that create pre-snap confusion
“Creeper” pressures that disguise which four defenders are rushing
An emphasis on aggressive turnover creation (his Sam Houston team forced 22 turnovers in 2024)
A “Nickel” position that serves as the defensive lynchpin
What separates Cassity’s defensive philosophy from other aggressive systems is how he balances exotic pressure packages with fundamental discipline. His Sam Houston defense held nine of twelve opponents under 21 points last season—proving his system isn’t just about forcing turnovers but also about preventing scores.
The transformation North Texas is attempting is ambitious but historically possible.
Who’s Going To Lead The Offense In The Post-Chandler Morris Era?
With Chandler Morris departed, North Texas faces an intriguing battle between two very different signal-callers:
Reese Poffenbarger: A Miami transfer with Power Five experience but known for streaky play
Chris Jimerson Jr.: A talented freshman dual-threat with tremendous upside but limited experience
Whoever wins the job will operate Eric Morris’s proven Air Raid variant—an offensive system that has demonstrated it can produce regardless of personnel. The quarterback will have weapons, including:
Tulane transfer RB Shaadie Clayton-Johnson
Sam Houston transfer WR Simeon Evans
Returning receivers Landon Sides and Miles Coleman
An experienced offensive line featuring multiple transfers
The offensive foundation remains solid, but ball security must improve after Chandler Morris’s 13 interceptions in 2024 proved costly in several close defeats.
North Texas might not need its offense to score 40 points every game if Cassity’s defense delivers as promised.
The Personnel Pieces That Could Make Cassity’s Defense Work
Defensive schemes succeed or fail based on having the right players in the right positions.
Cassity’s 3-3-5 defense requires specific personnel types, and the 2025 roster appears to have promising building blocks:
Defensive Line: Terrell Dawkins and Breylon Charles project as disruptive edge players, with Roderick Brown anchoring the interior
Linebackers: Kevin Wood returns after being one of the team’s top tacklers, joined by Auburn transfer Larry Nixon III
Secondary: Ridge Texada brings experience at cornerback, while Jaden Moore shows promise at safety
The Critical “Nickel”: C.J. Nelson, a hybrid defender with coverage skills, projects to fill what many consider the most important position in Cassity’s system
According to internal team projections, the defense aims to make dramatic statistical improvements:
From 119th to top 60 in points allowed
From 120th to top 70 in yards allowed
From 96th to top 40 in turnovers gained
From bottom 25 to top 50 in red zone touchdown percentage
From 105th to the top 50 in third-down stops
Even moderate defensive improvement could dramatically change North Texas’s fortunes in 2025.
Why 2025 Is A Make-Or-Break Year For Eric Morris
Head coaches who can’t build complete programs eventually update their resumes.
For Eric Morris, 2025 represents a pivotal year in his tenure. He has already established his offensive credentials but must prove he can develop a balanced program to compete for conference championships. His decision to hire Cassity signals a recognition that defensive improvement is imperative for North Texas to take the next step.
The ceiling for this team appears to be 8-4 with dark horse potential in the AAC, while the floor sits at 5-7 if the defensive transformation doesn’t materialize quickly enough. According to program insiders, the most likely outcome is a 6-6 or 7-5 finish that shows signs of long-term stability.
What makes North Texas fascinating heading into 2025 is that this isn’t a traditional rebuild—it’s a strategic reset. The offensive foundation remains solid, with a proven system and talented skill players. The special teams unit looks competent with additions like kicker Noah Rauschenberg and punter Lucas Dean.
The X-factor is Cassity and his defensive revolution.
The Bottom Line On North Texas’s 2025 Outlook
One defensive coordinator can’t change a program’s identity overnight, but Skyler Cassity might be the exception.
His track record suggests he’s capable of engineering rapid transformations, and North Texas has invested in providing him the personnel needed to implement his system. If his approach translates to the FBS level as it did at his previous stops, the Mean Green could quickly evolve from AAC afterthought to conference contender.
For a program that has tantalized fans with offensive fireworks but frustrated them with defensive collapses, 2025 represents an opportunity to finally find balance. The pieces are in place for a breakthrough season that could redefine North Texas football’s identity.
After years of one-dimensional football, North Texas may finally have found its missing piece.
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Temple football is about to experience the most dramatic transformation in program history.
After a disastrous 3-9 campaign that saw a season-ending coaching change and statistical rankings that would make any Owls fan cringe, Temple University is betting big on championship-winning coach K.C. Keeler to resurrect a program that finished 114th out of 134 teams nationally in 2024. The Pennsylvania native returns to his home state with national championships from Delaware (2003) and Sam Houston State (2020) on his resume—and a reputation for program revival that Temple desperately needs.
But the question every Temple fan is asking is: How quickly can Keeler turn this program around?
The Championship Coach Returns Home
K.C. Keeler isn’t just any coaching hire—he’s a proven program builder with deep Pennsylvania roots.
The Emmaus native brings three decades of coaching experience to North Broad Street, with successful tenures at Rowan (1993-2001), Delaware (2002-2012), and Sam Houston State (2014-2024). His most recent accomplishment? Leading Sam Houston to a respectable 9-3 record in 2024 after capturing an FCS National Championship with the program in 2020.
What makes Keeler particularly intriguing for Temple is his reputation for effectively recruiting the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions—precisely the talent pools Temple must tap to rebuild.
The championship DNA has arrived in Philadelphia.
The Complete Staff Overhaul You Didn’t See Coming
Keeler isn’t bringing a few assistants with him—he’s orchestrating a total staff revolution.
The new Temple coaching blueprint includes:
Tyler Walker as offensive coordinator (from Montana State)
Brian Smith as defensive coordinator (from Rice)
Special Teams Coordinator Brian Ginn (former Sam Houston offensive consultant)
Offensive Line Coach Al Johnson (Montana State)
Running Backs Coach Andrew Pierce (Delaware)
Wide Receivers Coach Roy Roundtree (Miami University-Ohio)
Tight Ends Coach Chris Zarkoskie (James Madison)
Pass Game Coordinator/Cornerbacks Coach Henry Baker (Marshall)
Defensive Line Coach Cedric Calhoun (Rice)
Linebackers Coach Keith Dudzinski (UMass)
Outside Linebackers Coach Chris Raitano (Monmouth)
This complete teardown and rebuild of the coaching staff signals that the culture and systems that produced 3-9 are being entirely replaced.
The Transfer Portal Cavalry Has Arrived
If you thought the coaching changes were dramatic, wait to see how Keeler is rebuilding the roster.
The transfer portal has become Keeler’s primary weapon for immediate roster improvement, with several key additions that could transform the 2025 team:
Offensive game-changers:
RB Jay Ducker follows Keeler from Sam Houston, bringing a 5’10”, 205-pound frame and the potential to rejuvenate a rushing attack that ranked a miserable 124th nationally.
RB Johnny Martin (Stony Brook) adds much-needed depth to the backfield.
WR Ian Stewart brings graduate transfer experience and a 6’3″, 215-pound frame to a passing game that was surprisingly productive (276.7 ypg, 25th nationally) despite overall offensive struggles.
Defensive reinforcements:
LB Ty Davis (Delaware) headlines a linebacker overhaul aimed at fixing a run defense that surrendered an abysmal 198.3 yards per game (128th nationally).
LB Jayvant Brown (Kentucky) adds Power Five experience to the defense.
LB Willy Love (Monmouth) provides additional depth at a critical position.
DB Avery Powell (Missouri State) and Jaylen Castleberry (Youngstown State) bring experience to a secondary that needs significant improvement.
The transfer portal strategy reveals Keeler’s pragmatic approach to rebuilding—addressing immediate needs with experienced transfers while developing high school recruits for long-term program stability.
The Quarterback Question Nobody Can Answer
Who will lead the Temple offense in 2025?
With Chris Dietrich transferring to Bucknell, redshirt senior Evan Simon (6’3″, 205 lbs) from Manheim Central emerges as the presumptive starter, but his collegiate experience remains limited. The development of a reliable signal-caller represents perhaps the most critical factor in Temple’s offensive resurgence.
Interestingly, Temple’s passing attack was a relatively bright spot in 2024, averaging 276.7 yards per game (25th nationally). But can the new staff maintain this aerial productivity while dramatically improving a ground game that mustered just 96.3 yards per game?
The quarterback room will determine whether Temple’s offensive transformation happens in months or years.
The Statistical Reality Check Nobody Wants to Hear
The numbers from 2024 reveal just how massive Keeler’s rebuilding project truly is.
Temple’s statistical profile looks like a program in desperate need of comprehensive reinvention:
Scoring offense: 19.6 points per game (121st nationally)
Scoring defense: 35.4 points per game (124th nationally)
Rushing offense: 96.3 yards per game (124th nationally)
Rushing defense: 198.3 yards per game (128th nationally)
Most concerning was Temple’s complete inability to establish the run or stop opponents’ ground games—fundamental football failures that must be addressed before any meaningful program turnaround can occur.
These aren’t just bad numbers; they’re program-identity-crisis numbers.
The Realistic Timeline For Temple’s Resurrection
Patience will be essential for Temple supporters accustomed to football disappointment.
While Keeler’s championship pedigree provides hope for the program’s long-term trajectory, the statistical deficiencies from 2024 suggest that immediate, dramatic improvement to conference contention is unlikely. At both Delaware and Sam Houston State, Keeler demonstrated an ability to build championship-caliber programs, but those transformations weren’t instantaneous.
Success in 2025 should be measured by:
Establishing a clear team identity on both sides of the ball
Meaningful statistical improvements, particularly in rushing offense and defense
Competitive performances against AAC opponents
Continued roster development through transfers and improved recruiting
Tangible progress toward bowl eligibility, even if that benchmark isn’t reached immediately
The 2025 season represents the foundation-laying phase of Temple’s resurrection project—establishing culture, implementing systems, and creating the infrastructure for sustainable success.
For a program that has experienced brief flashes of relevance interspersed with extended periods of struggle, Keeler’s arrival offers something missing on North Broad Street: legitimate hope backed by championship credentials.
The Keeler era has officially begun.
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Tulane football, the AAC Championship runner-up, just lost its star quarterback to an $8 million NIL deal.
This is the new reality for Tulane and head coach Jon Sumrall as they enter the 2025 season: competing against programs with financial resources far exceeding their own. Despite reaching the AAC Championship in Sumrall’s first season, the Green Wave now find themselves in a challenging position, rebuilding after watching their top performers get poached by larger programs with deeper NIL pockets.
“When you have a — call it a couple-million dollar roster versus a $15 million dollar roster you’re going sometimes into a gun fight with a knife,” Sumrall bluntly stated at the New Orleans Book Festival, as John Brice of Football Scoop reported.
But Sumrall isn’t backing down.
The Mass Exodus: How Much Talent Did Tulane Lose?
Quarterback Darian Mensah led the AAC in completion percentage and transferred to Duke for a reported $8 million NIL deal.
That’s just the beginning of Tulane’s exodus:
QB Darian Mensah: Left for Duke after throwing for 2,723 yards and 22 TDs with a 65.9% completion rate
RB Makhi Hughes: Hughes departed for Oregon after being the team’s workhorse in 2024
WR Room: All three top receivers – Mario Williams, Dontae Fleming, and Yulkeith Brown – transferred out
TE Alex Bauman: Moved to Miami, removing another key receiving option
Additional Losses: RBs Shaadie Clayton-Johnson (North Texas) and Trey Cornist (Central Michigan)
Defense: DL Parker Petersen transferred to Wisconsin
These weren’t just role players—they were the core of an offense that averaged 405 yards per game and was remarkable for its efficiency (62.9% completion rate) and discipline (just 1.1 turnovers per game).
How do you replace that much production in one off-season?
Sumrall’s Portal Strategy: 23 New Transfers to the Rescue
“We’re going to find every way we can to be successful and win,” Sumrall insists. “I’m biased and I may have blinders on and so I’m going to compete to win against whoever we play. Anyone, anywhere, anytime.”
His actions back up those words, with Tulane bringing in 23 transfers to rebuild the roster:
T.J. Finley (QB): A 6’7″ pocket passer with experience at LSU, Auburn, Texas State, and Western Kentucky
Maurice Turner (RB): Louisville transfer stepping into a depleted backfield
Jimmy Calloway (WR): Another Louisville transfer tasked with rebuilding the receiving corps
Defensive Line Reinforcements:Eliyt Nairne (Liberty), Trevon Alpine (Texas Tech), and Derrick Sheppard (UAB)
Jordan Hall (OL): Liberty transfer brought in to strengthen the offensive line
While the offense undergoes a complete rebuild, the defensive front seven might be stronger than last year’s unit that allowed 145.8 rushing yards per game.
But will it be enough?
Position-by-Position: Where Tulane Stands in 2025
Quarterbacks: The Veteran Journeyman
T.J. Finley brings much-needed experience, but can the traditional pocket passer replicate Mensah’s dual-threat efficiency?
The transition from Mensah to Finley represents a complete style change:
Mensah was mobile and efficient (166.7 passer rating)
Finley is a prototypical pocket passer with a big arm
Early-season growing pains seem inevitable
The ceiling remains high if chemistry develops with new receivers
Verdict: 🟡 Different style, similar potential production with patience
Running Backs: Starting From Scratch
The backfield faces the steepest rebuild on the entire roster.
Maurice Turner arrives from Louisville to a room that’s lost virtually all of its production:
Hughes has gone to Oregon
Clayton-Johnson transferred to North Texas
Cornist moved to Central Michigan
A committee approach seems likely in 2025
Early-season production could be inconsistent
Verdict: 🔴 Complete rebuild required
Wide Receivers: Who Steps Up?
Jimmy Calloway and other portal additions face enormous pressure with all top contributors gone.
The receiver reset is total:
All three top producers from 2024 transferred out
Chemistry with Finley must develop quickly
Unproven players will need to step into major roles
Expect new offensive wrinkles to help ease the transition
Verdict: 🔴 Major question marks remain
Defensive Line: The Bright Spot
This unit might be stronger in 2025 than it was in 2024.
The additions through the portal should create a more disruptive front:
Nairne, Alpine, and Sheppard bring experience and size
The 2024 unit was solid but unspectacular (145.8 rush yards/game)
Increased pressure could help the entire defense
Potential to be the team’s strength in 2025
Verdict: 🟢 Potential to be the team’s strength
Linebackers and Secondary: Stability Matters
These units remain relatively intact from the 2024 squad.
The defensive back seven provides needed continuity:
Minimal losses to the transfer portal
The secondary allowed 177.7 passing yards per game in 2024
More pressure up front could create more turnover opportunities
Likely to carry the team early while the offense develops
Verdict: 🟡 Solid but not spectacular
The 2025 Schedule: Opportunity and Challenge
Tulane’s path through 2025 includes fascinating storylines and significant tests.
Non-Conference Headliners:
Aug. 30: Northwestern (Home)
Sept. 13: Duke (Home) – Mensah returns to New Orleans
Sept. 20: Ole Miss (Away) – Major SEC challenge
Critical Conference Games:
Oct. 18: Army (Home) – 2024 AAC Championship rematch
Oct. 30: UTSA (Away) – Thursday night vs. rising conference power
Nov. 7: Memphis (Away) – Always a challenging road environment
Two strategically placed bye weeks (Oct. 4 and Oct. 25) should help the coaching staff make necessary adjustments throughout the season.
Can Tulane Find Sumrall’s “Secret Sauce”?
“Can you be the best in your league and find that secret sauce at the end where there’s chemistry and cohesion and culture that maybe beats somebody that may have a touch more talent than you?” Sumrall asked at the New Orleans Book Festival.
This question cuts to the heart of Tulane’s 2025 season.
Despite the coaching stability (Sumrall extended his contract in December 2024 despite Power 4 interest), the roster turnover creates enormous uncertainty. Integration of 23 new transfers tests even the best coaching staff.
The “secret sauce” of chemistry, cohesion, and culture faces its ultimate test.
Realistic Expectations: What Success Looks Like in 2025
With massive roster turnover and a challenging schedule, Tulane fans should recalibrate expectations.
Here’s what to watch for:
Early Growing Pains: September could be rough as the offense develops chemistry
Defensive Emergence: The defense may need to carry the team early
Midseason Improvement: If Finley settles in, the team could hit stride by mid-October
Bowl Eligibility: Securing six wins would represent success in this transition year
Conference Contention: Returning to the AAC Championship would be an impressive achievement
The Existential Question: Is Cinderella Dead in the NIL Era?
“Is it dead? I don’t know about that, yet. But, it’s challenging,” Sumrall said when asked if the Cinderella story is still possible in modern college football.
This is the existential question facing programs like Tulane’s.
How do you build sustainable success when your best players become immediate targets for financial packages you can’t match? When Sumrall says, “they’re able to just steal players from you left and right,” he’s describing a fundamental challenge to programs outside the Power 4 conferences.
Tulane’s 2025 season isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about proving that a sustainable model exists for programs with limited resources in the NIL era.
Suppose Sumrall can develop undervalued players, effectively use the transfer portal, and build a strong culture to retain at least some key contributors. In that case, the Green Wave might establish a blueprint for similar programs.
For 2025, temper your expectations on the field.
But watch closely for signs that Sumrall is building something that can withstand the annual talent exodus that programs like Tulane now face in modern college football.
After all, he’s attempting something extraordinary: bringing a knife to a gunfight – and trying to win anyway.
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The Rice Owls are about to undergo their most significant transformation in recent memory.
After a disappointing 4-8 campaign in 2024 that saw a mid-season coaching change, Rice University has appointed Scott Abell as the program’s 20th head coach—a move that signals a dramatic shift in offensive philosophy and team identity. Abell, who turned Davidson College from a perennial loser into a championship contender, now faces the challenge of doing the same in the increasingly competitive American Athletic Conference.
But can his run-heavy approach succeed at Rice? And will 2025 be a year of growth pains or immediate improvement?
Let’s break it down.
Abell Brings A Winning Formula To South Main
Scott Abell isn’t just another coach looking for a bigger paycheck.
His track record of program revival is precisely what Rice desperately needs:
At Davidson College, he transformed a program without a winning season since 2007 into a powerhouse with a 47-28 overall record
He captured two Pioneer Football League championships and led the Wildcats to three consecutive FCS playoff appearances
His teams led the nation in rushing offense for five straight years—a stark contrast to Rice’s 106th-ranked rushing attack in 2024
The philosophical shift couldn’t be more dramatic. While Rice averaged 252.5 passing yards per game (45th nationally) but just 110.5 rushing yards (106th) last season, Abell is bringing a ground-and-pound approach that dominated at the FCS level.
How quickly this transformation takes hold will determine the Owls’ ceiling in 2025.
A Staff Blending Old And New Creates Intriguing Mix
Abell didn’t come alone.
His coaching staff represents a strategic blend of familiar faces and fresh perspectives:
Offensive coordinator Vince Munch follows Abell from Davidson to implement the run-heavy system
Porter Abell (the head coach’s son) takes over as quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator
Defensive coordinator Jon Kay enters his third season at Rice but with a promotion from linebackers coach
Former NFL standout Ty Warren, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Patriots, joins as defensive line coach
This mix of continuity and new blood could help ease the transition while bringing much-needed energy to a program that has struggled to find its identity in the AAC.
The question is whether this diverse staff can quickly get on the same page and implement Abell’s vision.
The Transfer Portal Giveth And Taketh Away
Rice’s roster has been significantly reshuffled through the transfer portal, creating both opportunities and challenges.
Key Departures:
Running back Dean Connors (780 rushing yards, 62 receptions in 2024) transferred to crosstown rival Houston
Offensive tackle Ethan Onianwa left for Ohio State, creating a void on the offensive line
Safety Tyson Flowers departed for Virginia Tech, weakening the secondary
Notable Additions:
Cornerback Max Lofy brings Big Ten experience from Wisconsin to bolster the defensive backfield
Offensive linemen Sean Sullivan (Yale) and Cole Morgan (Michigan) provide potential solutions up front
A recruiting class ranked 103rd nationally and sixth in the AAC adds young talent, including running back Tyvonn Byars
Perhaps the most concerning departure is Connors’, particularly given Abell’s run-focused philosophy. Finding his replacement will be critical for offensive success in 2025.
Fixing The Turnover Problem Is Priority Number One
To understand why Rice struggled in 2024, look no further than the turnover column.
The Owls finished with a turnover margin of -13—dead last in college football—by committing 25 turnovers while forcing only 12. This fatal flaw neutralized a defense that performed reasonably well (364.5 yards allowed per game, 54th nationally).
Abell’s disciplined approach at Davidson emphasized ball security and mistake-free football. If he can instill these values quickly, Rice could see immediate improvement even before his offensive system fully takes root.
Imagine what even a neutral turnover margin could mean for a team that lost three games by seven points or fewer last season.
A Schedule Offering Both Challenges And Opportunities
The 2025 slate allows Rice to build momentum while testing its progress against quality opponents.
Non-Conference Games:
August 30: at Louisiana (road test to open the Abell era)
September 6: vs. Houston (crosstown rivalry with added Dean Connors storyline)
September 13: vs. Prairie View A&M (potential confidence builder)
September 27: at Navy (challenging service academy matchup)
Key AAC Games:
September 18 (Thursday): at Charlotte (early conference test)
October 11: at UTSA (regional rivalry)
October 31 (Friday): vs. Memphis (prime-time opportunity)
November 29: at USF (season finale)
Six AAC programs will introduce new head coaches in 2025, making the conference landscape unusually fluid and creating potential opportunities for the Owls to climb the standings faster than expected.
Four home games in the final six weeks could allow Rice to build momentum as players become more comfortable with the new schemes and expectations.
Realistic Expectations For Year One
Success in 2025 will not be measured solely by wins and losses.
While a bowl game would be a tremendous achievement, fans should look for these signs of progress:
Significant improvement in turnover margin from last year’s -13 disaster
Development of a consistent rushing attack reflecting Abell’s philosophy
Competitive performances against established AAC powers
Growth from younger players who fit the new system
Victories against fellow programs also undergoing transitions
The reality is that systematic changes take time. Abell’s history suggests he can accelerate rebuilds, but patience will still be required as Rice installs a new offensive identity.
If the Owls can show progressive improvement throughout the season and establish a clear foundation for 2026 and beyond, that’s a successful first step in the program’s revitalization.
Sometimes, you have to take one step back to take two steps forward.
For Rice football, 2025 lays the groundwork for sustained success under Scott Abell’s leadership. The journey begins on August 30.
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The UAB Blazers football program is walking a dangerous tightrope between redemption and total collapse.
After stumbling to a 3-9 record in 2024 (following an equally disappointing 4-8 campaign in 2023), what was once a respectable mid-major program has devolved into what local fans have bluntly labeled a “clown show.” Head Coach Trent Dilfer, entering his make-or-break third season, faces the monumental task of proving he wasn’t the wrong hire for a program that flourished under previous leadership.
Fans are asking legitimate questions:
Can a Super Bowl-winning quarterback with zero college coaching experience suddenly figure it out in Year 3?
Will the revolving door of transfers and coaching changes finally stabilize?
Is there any path back to the winning formula Bill Clark established before Dilfer’s arrival?
This 2025 season isn’t just another chapter—it might be the final verdict on whether UAB football can reclaim relevance or fade into obscurity.
The Dilfer Experiment Has Been a Spectacular Failure (So Far)
When UAB hired Trent Dilfer in November 2022, the move felt bold, innovative, and full of promise.
A Super Bowl champion quarterback, ESPN analyst, and high school coaching sensation at Lipscomb Academy seemed like the perfect outside-the-box hire to energize a program looking to evolve beyond its Conference USA success. Dilfer arrived with charisma, media savvy, and grand visions for modernizing UAB football.
Two years later, the experiment has crashed and burned:
Bill Clark built a 49-26 record (.653 winning percentage) with five bowl appearances and a conference championship
Dilfer has stumbled to an abysmal 7-17 record (.292) with zero postseason appearances
Home attendance has plummeted as fans vote with their feet
Sideline meltdowns and tone-deaf comments like “It’s not like this is freakin’ Alabama” have alienated supporters
The administration continues publicly backing Dilfer, but the $4.1 million buyout is significant for a program without Power Five resources.
This stark regression raises the uncomfortable question nobody at UAB wants to answer: Was hiring a celebrity coach with zero college experience a colossal mistake critics feared?
The Numbers Paint a Brutal Picture of Program Regression
Nothing clearly tells the story of UAB’s decline than the cold, hard statistics.
Between 2023 and 2024, virtually every meaningful performance metric trended in the wrong direction:
Offensive Collapse:
Passing accuracy plummeted from 71.7% to 63.7%
Rushing production dropped from 161.1 to 130.9 yards per game
Yards per carry decreased from 4.5 to 4.0
Total offense shrank from 450 to 392.5 yards per game
Defensive Disaster:
Allowed a staggering 35.3 points per game in 2024
Surrendered 212.9 rushing yards per game (5.1 per carry)
Opponents converted 11.8 rushing first downs per game
Teams ran at will against the Blazers’ defense
Discipline Issues:
Penalties increased year-over-year
Turnover margins worsened
Game management breakdowns cost winnable games
These aren’t minor fluctuations—they represent systematic regression across every phase of football.
The numbers don’t lie: UAB is getting worse, not better, under Dilfer’s leadership.
Coaching Staff Overhaul: Desperation Move or Strategic Reset?
Dilfer’s coaching staff has been completely gutted after two disastrous seasons.
When multiple assistants leave a struggling program, it typically signals one of two realities: either the head coach is cleaning house to save his job, or the assistants are fleeing a sinking ship. For UAB, it’s likely both.
The exodus includes:
Wide receivers coach Austin Appleby
Defensive line coach Miguel Patrick
Linebackers coach Kenwick Thompson
Several other position coaches and analysts
The most significant addition is new defensive coordinator Steve Russ, who inherits the unenviable task of rebuilding a unit that allowed over 35 points per game. Secondary coach Brent Vieselmeyer also joins a defensive staff desperately seeking answers.
While coaching changes were necessary, this level of turnover creates new challenges:
New systems must be installed during a single offseason
Player-coach relationships reset to zero
Recruiting pipelines and connections must be rebuilt
Staff chemistry takes time to develop
The question isn’t whether change was needed—it was—but whether these specific changes will produce different results or reset the failure clock.
Transfer Portal Mayhem: 19 Out, 13 In, Total Identity Crisis
The transfer portal has transformed UAB’s roster into an unrecognizable collection of new faces.
Modern college football often resembles free agency, but UAB’s situation stands out for its extreme volatility: 19 players transferred out while 13 newcomers arrived through the portal. This isn’t normal roster churn—it’s a wholesale identity crisis.
Key Departures That Hurt:
QB Jacob Zeno → Texas A&M (former statistical leader)
WR Amare Thomas → Houston (top receiving threat)
RB Lee Beebe Jr. → Indiana (lead running back)
S Adrian Maddox → Georgia (defensive standout)
OL Delano Townsend → Ole Miss (offensive line anchor)
S Josh Baka from Kent State (secondary reinforcement)
DL Nigel Tate from Boston College (defensive line help)
QB Ryder Burton from West Virginia (quarterback depth)
This extreme roster volatility creates both challenges and opportunities:
Team chemistry and culture must be rebuilt from scratch
New players need to rapidly learn systems and expectations
Position battles will dominate spring and fall practices
A unified identity will be difficult to establish
Fresh talent could provide immediate impact
For a coach entering a make-or-break third season, this level of roster turnover only adds to the pressure to produce immediate results.
The Quarterback Situation: Kitna Firmly Entrenched as QB1
Jalen Kitna is the unquestioned leader of UAB’s offense heading into 2025.
Despite speculation about a potential quarterback competition, head coach Trent Dilfer has already made it clear that Kitna is firmly established as the team’s starter. According to Steve Irvine of The Banner, Dilfer confirmed Kitna “was the starter for the final eight games last season, and he entered this spring as the unquestioned quarterback leader.”
Kitna’s 2024 Journey:
Took over as starter in Week 5 against Tulane
Finished with 196/316 passing for 2,209 yards
Threw 16 touchdowns in his seven starts after the Tulane game
Struggled with turnovers (10 interceptions plus fumble issues)
Posted back-to-back impressive performances (384 yards vs. USF, 404 yards with 6 TDs vs. Tulsa)
Dilfer’s Expectations for 2025:
“We need to see a big step. We need to see a more confident player, more instinctive player, more consistent player.”
“To play quarterback here, be careful what you ask for, because you just got it…”
“The standards [are] extremely high.”
While Kitna’s starting job is secure, the spring competition focuses on establishing the quarterback depth chart. Sophomore transfer Ryder Burton, who spent one year at BYU and West Virginia without seeing game action, will get his first opportunity to impress the coaching staff. Additional depth includes redshirt freshmen Adrian Posse, Nate Rogers, and Cameron Jennings, with Trace Campbell also competing for position on the depth chart.
Kitna embraces the team-first mentality, telling The Banner: “My focus is being the best I can be… I’m here for the team’s success. I’m here to win, so my job going into this season is to put our team in the best position.”
The redshirt senior’s development and ability to minimize the turnover issues that plagued him in 2024 will be critical to UAB’s chances of improvement. Dilfer praised Kitna’s work ethic, noting he “works at an NFL level” and has “recognized the deficiencies in his game” while attacking them appropriately.
2025 Schedule: Where Are the Wins?
Finding six victories for bowl eligibility looks challenging on UAB’s 2025 slate.
The schedule offers balanced opportunity and adversity, but for a program coming off a 3-9 campaign, identifying winnable games requires optimistic projections:
Potential Wins:
Home opener vs. Alabama State (Aug. 28)
Home contest vs. Akron (non-conference)
Winnable American Athletic Conference matchups against South Florida and Charlotte
Major Challenges:
Road trip to Tennessee (power conference mismatch)
Annual “Battle for the Bones” vs. Memphis (Oct. 18)
Conference games against improved American Athletic opponents
For a coach and program desperately needing momentum, the season opener against Alabama State becomes critical. Starting 1-0 with a convincing victory could build confidence before conference play begins.
The harsh reality is that this schedule does not guarantee wins for a program that has repeatedly lost to lesser competition over the past two seasons.
Five Non-Negotiables for UAB’s 2025 Resurrection
If UAB has any chance to climb out of this hole, these five priorities must be addressed immediately.
1. Fix the Abysmal Run Defense
New DC Steve Russ must transform a unit allowing 212.9 rushing yards per game.
Fundamentals like tackling, gap integrity, and run fits need a complete overhaul.
The defensive line must establish the ability to win at the line of scrimmage.
Third down stops must increase dramatically.
2. Establish Quarterback Stability
Whether it’s Kitna or Burton, one quarterback must take command
Passing efficiency must return to at least 2023 levels (71.7%)
The quarterback must become a team leader beyond just on-field performance
Staff must commit to development rather than quick hooks
3. Reclaim Offensive Identity
Decide on philosophy: pass-heavy or balanced attack?
Improve horrific 130.9 yards per game rushing output
Create consistent opportunities for playmakers
Reduce predictability that plagued the 2024 offense
4. Eliminate Self-Destruction
Reduce penalties that stalled drives and extended opponent possessions
Improve turnover margin through ball security and defensive opportunism
Eliminate game management errors in critical situations
Develop resilience when facing adversity
5. Reconnect with Alienated Fanbase
Winning solves most problems, but relationship rebuilding is essential
Dilfer must show humility and connection to the Birmingham community
The athletic department should acknowledge frustrations rather than ignore them
Create tangible reasons for fans to return to home games
Without addressing these five critical areas, any hope for progress is merely wishful thinking.
Living in Bill Clark’s Long Shadow
The ghost of Bill Clark’s success continues to haunt Trent Dilfer’s tenure.
What makes Dilfer’s struggles particularly painful for UAB fans is the vivid memory of what the program achieved under Clark:
Resurrection of a program shut down in 2015
Consistent winning seasons and bowl appearances
Conference USA championship in 2018
Clear program identity and development philosophy
Respected leadership within the Birmingham community
Clark built something remarkable through hard work, development, and a blue-collar approach that resonated perfectly with Birmingham’s identity. Dilfer has tried replacing that foundation with celebrity, innovation, and aggressive modernization.
So far, the results speak for themselves:
Clark: 49-26 record, five bowls, one conference title
Dilfer: 7-17 record, zero bowls, declining statistics
For Dilfer to escape Clark’s shadow in 2025, he needs more than marginal improvement—he needs a dramatic turnaround that changes the entire narrative surrounding the program.
Until then, every UAB game will be played with Clark’s achievements as the measuring stick.
The Verdict: 2025 Is the Ultimate Judgment Season
UAB football stands at the most critical crossroads in its post-shutdown history.
After two disastrous seasons under Trent Dilfer, the 2025 campaign represents more than just another 12-game schedule—it’s the ultimate referendum on whether his hiring was a catastrophic mistake or a long-term vision that needed time.
The coaching staff changes, roster overhaul, and strategic adjustments suggest an acknowledgment that the status quo was unacceptable. Whether these changes translate to on-field improvement remains the critical question.
For a fanbase that has endured program elimination, fought for its revival, and then watched it deteriorate into what they describe as a “clown show,” patience has evaporated.
The 2025 season will deliver a clear answer: Is UAB football capable of resurrection under Trent Dilfer, or are we witnessing the final chapter of a failed experiment?
The stakes couldn’t possibly be higher for a program and a passionate Birmingham community that deserves better.
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Don’t miss another deep dive into college football’s most crucial storylines and program developments. Our team-by-team analysis gives you the insider perspective to understand where each program is headed in 2025 and beyond. Subscribe for free now to access our comprehensive breakdowns, exclusive hot seat rankings, and in-depth conference analysis delivered to your inbox. Join thousands of college football insiders who trust Coaches Hot Seat to keep them ahead of the game. Hit the link below to unlock all our premium content and never miss another update.
Navy football just delivered its first 10-win season since 2019, and it’s only getting started.
After half a decade of mediocrity, the Midshipmen roared back to life in 2024 with a statement season: 10-3 record, Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, and a bowl victory that stunned Oklahoma. Navy’s triple-option offense became appointment viewing again, and heading into 2025, this team has all the ingredients to make another run at the American Athletic Conference title.
Here’s why Navy is positioned to become one of college football’s best stories in 2025:
Navy’s 2024 resurrection wasn’t a fluke—it was a foundation
The Midshipmen shocked college football by transforming from perennial losers to conference contenders overnight.
What happened in 2024 wasn’t just a good season but a complete program resurrection. Navy opened with six straight wins, including a 56-44 offensive explosion against Memphis. They reclaimed the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy by dismantling Air Force 34-7 and handling Army 31-13. The season’s exclamation point came with quarterback Blake Horvath’s jaw-dropping 95-yard touchdown run to secure a 21-20 bowl victory over Oklahoma.
“That run against Oklahoma showed exactly what makes our offense dangerous,” noted Navy Athletics Director Chet Gladchuk in a January interview with the Naval Academy’s alumni magazine. “When you combine discipline with explosive athleticism, special things happen.”
This wasn’t just a good season. It was a warning shot to the rest of the conference.
The offense returns 73% of its production (which is absurd in the transfer portal era)
Returning nearly three-quarters of your offensive production in today’s college football landscape is practically unheard of.
Navy’s triple-option attack ranked 12th nationally in returning production, creating a level of continuity that option offenses particularly benefit from. The system’s effectiveness comes from precision, timing, and split-second decision-making—all qualities that improve dramatically with experience.
Established fullback Alex Tecza (576 yards, 8 TDs)
A cohesive offensive line with multiple returning starters
Backup QB Braxton Woodson, who gained valuable experience in 2024
A rushing attack that already averaged 247.5 yards per game at 5.4 yards per carry
“Our triple-option is the great equalizer,” Horvath told the Capital Gazette following the Armed Forces Bowl victory. “Teams can prepare for it, but until you’ve seen our speed and execution in person, it’s tough to simulate.”
The scary part? This offense still has room to grow.
The defense quietly dominated in 2024 (and returns plenty of production)
While the offense gets the headlines, Navy’s defense was the unsung hero of last season’s success.
The Midshipmen defense returns 53% of its production from a unit that surrendered just 22.2 points per game. Against the run—where games are often won or lost in college football—they were particularly stingy, allowing only 156.1 yards per game and 4.2 yards per carry.
What made this defense special in 2024:
Disciplined play (just 5.1 penalties for 45 yards per game)
Strong fundamentals (particularly in tackling)
Creating turnovers in key moments
Flexibility against varied offensive schemes in the AAC
The secondary remains the area for potential improvement, allowing 212.8 passing yards per game at a 59.3% completion rate. With the high-powered passing attacks in the American Athletic Conference, developing depth at cornerback and safety positions will be crucial during spring practice.
But the defensive foundation is rock solid.
The 2025 schedule is set up perfectly for another championship run
If you were designing an ideal schedule for sustained momentum, Navy’s 2025 slate comes pretty close.
The schedule breaks down as follows:
Early confidence-builders: VMI (Aug. 30) and UAB (Sept. 6) at home to start the season
Traditional rivalry games: Air Force (Oct. 4 in Annapolis) and Army (Dec. 13 in Baltimore)
Major spotlight game: at Notre Dame (Nov. 8)
Late-season statement opportunity: at Memphis (Nov. 27)
Balanced distribution: 5 home games, 7 road games
“The 2025 schedule gives us a good balance,” said head coach Brian Newberry in a press release announcing the schedule. “Starting with two home games helps us establish our identity, and having Air Force at home is significant for our Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy defense.”
The schedule provides the perfect mix of winnable games, high-profile showcases, and conference challenges.
While everyone else rebuilds through the transfer portal, Navy builds through development
Navy’s approach is refreshingly old-school in college football’s transfer portal era.
While the portal has revolutionized roster construction elsewhere, Navy’s unique service academy structure means it operates differently by necessity. Yes, they lost a few players through the portal—defensive end Jacob Busic (to UCLA) and quarterback Trey Dunn (to Marshall)—but the program’s mission and requirements naturally limit both departures and arrivals.
This creates three massive competitive advantages:
Unrivaled continuity in an era of constant roster turnover
Players fully bought into Navy’s unique system over multiple years
A culture that develops players rather than replacing them
What initially seems like a disadvantage reinforces the team’s identity and approach.
Navy is built differently than 99% of college football programs (and that’s their superpower)
The Midshipmen are positioned to build on their 2024 revival and potentially take it even further in 2025.
Navy stands apart in a world where college football programs increasingly resemble each other with similar offensive systems, transfer portal strategies, and NIL approaches. Their identity is crystal clear: physical, disciplined football executing a unique system with precision and purpose.
If the passing game develops as a more consistent threat and the defense maintains its stinginess, Navy could find itself in the AAC championship game come December. For a program built on tradition, 2025 presents an opportunity to establish a new winning tradition for the current generation of Midshipmen.
The ingredients are all there. Navy isn’t just hoping to win—they’re built to win.
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