The UAB Blazers are set to face off against the Army Black Knights on Saturday, October 12, at 12 p.m. ET. This matchup promises to be a compelling clash between two teams with distinct styles of play and a rich football tradition. The game will take place at Michie Stadium in West Point, New York, where the Black Knights will enjoy the home-field advantage.
This comprehensive preview will cover how to watch the game, a breakdown of both teams, key players to watch, odds and predictions, and everything else fans need to know ahead of kickoff.
How to Watch UAB vs. Army
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 12:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Michie Stadium, West Point, New York
TV Broadcast: CBS Sports Network
Live Streaming: FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, YouTube TV
Tickets: as low as $41
For those looking to catch the game live, here are the details on how to watch:
- CBS Sports Network: This cable channel will provide live coverage of the UAB vs. Army matchup.
- FuboTV: FuboTV offers a 7-day free trial and features CBS Sports Network in its lineup, making it a solid choice for fans wanting to stream the game live.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu’s live TV package also includes CBS Sports Network, along with a variety of other sports and entertainment channels.
- Sling TV: Sling TV offers CBS Sports Network as part of its channel lineup, providing an affordable way to watch the game.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV offers a range of live sports channels, including CBS Sports Network, ensuring fans won’t miss any action.
Make sure to set reminders and check your local listings to ensure you’re ready for kickoff!
Team Previews
UAB Blazers
Season Overview
The UAB Blazers are looking to make a mark in the Conference USA this season. Under head coach Trent Dilfer, who took over the program recently, the Blazers have been working hard to build a competitive team that can challenge for a conference title. UAB has shown flashes of brilliance but also faced challenges in their early-season games, and this matchup against Army will be a significant test of their resilience and adaptability.
The Blazers are known for their high-tempo offense and a versatile defense that can adjust to various schemes. The focus for UAB in this matchup will be on their ability to execute on both sides of the ball.
Offense
UAB’s offense is characterized by its dual-threat capabilities, with a strong emphasis on the running game. The Blazers have a stable of talented running backs, led by DeWayne McBride, who has emerged as one of the top rushers in the conference. McBride’s ability to break tackles and find the end zone will be crucial in this game, especially against Army’s physical defense.
Quarterback Jacob Zeno is a key figure in the offense, showcasing his passing skills while also being capable of making plays with his legs. Zeno’s development will be vital as he faces an Army defense known for its disciplined play and ability to create turnovers.
In the receiving corps, Trey Shropshire is the go-to target for Zeno. Shropshire’s speed and ability to stretch the field will be essential for keeping the defense honest and opening up running lanes for McBride. The offensive line, anchored by Kadeem Telfort, will play a pivotal role in both protecting Zeno and creating space for the running game.
Defense
Defensively, UAB is known for its aggressive approach, often bringing pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Blazers have a formidable front seven, led by linebacker Will Boler, who has been a standout performer this season. Boler’s ability to read plays and make tackles in the backfield will be crucial in slowing down Army’s run-heavy offense.
The secondary, featuring players like Kendall Parham, will need to step up against Army’s play-action passing game. The Blazers must be disciplined in their assignments to avoid giving up big plays.
Key Players to Watch for UAB
- DeWayne McBride (RB): McBride’s ability to gain yards after contact will be key in moving the chains and keeping the Army offense off the field.
- Jacob Zeno (QB): Zeno’s decision-making and ability to make plays under pressure will be crucial against Army’s disciplined defense.
- Trey Shropshire (WR): Shropshire’s speed can open up the field, and he will be a primary target for Zeno in critical situations.
- Will Boler (LB): Boler’s leadership and tackling ability will be vital in stopping Army’s rushing attack.
- Kendall Parham (DB): Parham will be instrumental in limiting big plays in the passing game and providing support in run defense.
Army Black Knights
Season Overview
The Army Black Knights have a storied football program and a distinctive style of play, heavily relying on their ground attack and disciplined defense. Under head coach Jeff Monken, Army has built a reputation for being one of the toughest teams in college football, known for their triple-option offense that can wear down opposing defenses.
Army has had a solid start to the season, showcasing their ability to control the game clock and dictate the pace of play. This matchup against UAB will be a chance for them to prove themselves against a team that can match their physicality.
Offense
Army’s offense revolves around its triple-option attack, a system that has proven effective over the years. Quarterback Jared Drake is the centerpiece of this offense, tasked with making quick decisions and reading the defense to determine whether to hand the ball off, pitch it to a running back, or keep it himself.
The Black Knights feature a deep backfield, with running backs like Tyhier Tyler and Anthony Adkins leading the charge. Both backs are capable of breaking off big runs and have the speed to outrun defenders. Army’s offensive line, known for its physicality and experience, will need to create holes against UAB’s defense.
Army’s passing game is not heavily utilized, but when they do throw the ball, receivers like Braheam Murphy and Isaiah Alston can make plays downfield. The Black Knights typically keep their passing attempts minimal, relying on their ground game to control the clock and move the chains.
Defense
Army’s defense is known for its discipline and toughness. The Black Knights are well-coached and fundamentally sound, making them a tough opponent for any offense. The defensive line, anchored by Nate Smith, plays a critical role in stopping the run and pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
At linebacker, Javun Marshall is a standout player who excels in both run support and pass coverage. Marshall’s ability to diagnose plays quickly will be crucial in limiting UAB’s rushing attack.
In the secondary, Army features players like Kelley Glover, who can provide support against both the run and the pass. The defensive backs will need to remain vigilant against UAB’s passing threats, as well as play their assignments effectively to prevent big plays.
Key Players to Watch for Army
- Jared Drake (QB): Drake’s decision-making and ability to execute the triple-option will be critical in Army’s offensive game plan.
- Tyhier Tyler (RB): Tyler’s explosive running ability can change the game, and he will be a focal point in the ground attack.
- Javun Marshall (LB): Marshall’s tackling and coverage skills will be key in stopping UAB’s rushing attack and covering receivers.
- Nate Smith (DL): Smith’s ability to disrupt plays in the backfield will be crucial against UAB’s offensive line.
- Kelley Glover (DB): Glover will need to stay alert against UAB’s passing game and provide support in the run defense.
Odds and Predictions
As of now, the odds favor Army as a slight favorite in this matchup. The Black Knights’ unique offensive scheme and home-field advantage give them an edge, but UAB’s talent and speed could make this game competitive.
- Spread: Army -3.5
- Over/Under: 45 points
Prediction
This game is expected to be a tightly contested battle, with both teams showcasing their distinct styles. UAB will look to utilize their running game and balanced attack, while Army will rely on their disciplined execution of the triple-option offense.
UAB’s ability to stop the run will be critical in this matchup. If they can contain Army’s ground game and force them to pass, they may be able to gain the upper hand. On the flip side, Army’s defense will need to stay disciplined and avoid giving up big plays.
Expect a hard-fought contest that could come down to the wire. Ultimately, Army’s home-field advantage and experience in executing their offense may give them the edge needed to pull out a victory.
Final Score Prediction: Army 27, UAB 24
The matchup between the UAB Blazers and the Army Black Knights on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 12 p.m. ET is set to be an exciting clash of styles. UAB’s high-tempo offense faces off against Army’s disciplined triple-option attack, promising fans a thrilling game. Be sure to catch the live action on CBS Sports Network or stream it through FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, or other platforms.
This game is a must-watch for college football fans, as both teams vie for crucial victories in their respective conferences, making every possession count.
