The UAB Blazers started off the season by defeating Central Arkansas 45-35. Tyler Johnston III passed for 143 yards, with 2 touchdowns and an interception. Bryson Lucero had 83 yards passing and a touchdown. Spencer Brown rushed for 127 yards and a TD and Jermaine Brown Jr. added 75 yards on the ground with a score. UAB had one of the top defenses last season but sis not play as well in their irst game of the season.

The Miami-Florida Hurricanes had a disappointing season on new coach Manny Diaz. They compiled a 6-7 overall record, including a loss in the Independence Bowl. It was their first losing season since 2014. The main problem was their inability to move the ball and they hope to have changed that with the addition of Houston transfer D’Eriq King. He through for almost 5000 yards and 50 touchdowns and rushed for 1,421 yards and 28 TDs in 34 games for Houston. The rushing attack will be handled by Cam’Ron Harris and Robert Burns as well as King.

UAB has a game under their belt which should help at the beginning of the game. UAB had a top-notch defense last season and having a game under their belt should help. Miami struggled last season on offense and they should be better with King but it may take some time for him to get used to his teammate's during game situations. I am not convinced Diaz is head coaching material and must prove himself this season. King could be a Heisman candidate by the time the season is over but it will take a little time to get used to the offense. These are too many points to give a team with a game under their belt and a good defense.

Play on UAB.