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Memphis vs. UAB: Kitna Injury and Coaching Change

8 months agoUS
Memphis vs. UAB: Kitna Injury and Coaching ChangeSource: al.com
The UAB Blazers face a tough challenge against the Memphis Tigers in their upcoming "Battle for the Bones" game. UAB will be led by interim coach Alex Mortensen after the recent firing of Trent Dilfer. Adding to their challenges, starting quarterback Jalen Kitna is out with an upper-body injury.

Key Insights

Jalen Kitna is out for the game against Memphis due to an upper-body injury. Ryder Burton will make his first career start in Kitna’s absence.

Trent Dilfer was fired as UAB’s head coach and replaced by interim coach Alex Mortensen.

Memphis is heavily favored, bringing a strong rushing attack against UAB's struggling defense.

Memphis has held the "Battle for the Bones" trophy since 2012.

The game will be broadcast on ESPN2 at 4:00 PM ET.

In-Depth Analysis

The Memphis Tigers (6-0) visit the UAB Blazers (2-4) for the Battle for the Bones. UAB fell behind 28-0 in Dilfer’s final game as head coach, a 53-33 loss at Florida Atlantic last week. Jalen Kitna finished with 261 passing yards and a touchdown but took five sacks, while Solomon Beebe scored two touchdowns on the ground.

Memphis is coming off a 45-7 win over Tulsa. Quarterback Brendon Lewis completes 68.2% of his throws for 1,269 yards with eight touchdowns and four interceptions, and also has 420 rushing yards with seven scores. Sutton Smith is the team’s top rusher with 454 yards and six TDs, with Cortez Braham Jr. topping the club with 24 receptions, 408 yards, and five touchdowns.

UAB has the overall series advantage (10-7).

FAQs

Q: Who is starting at quarterback for UAB?

Ryder Burton will be making his first career start.

Q: Why did UAB fire their coach?

Trent Dilfer was fired after a 9-21 record over two-plus seasons, including a recent 53-33 loss to Florida Atlantic.

Q: What is the "Battle for the Bones?"

It's a rivalry game between Memphis and UAB, with the winner receiving a 94-pound bronze rack of ribs trophy.

Key Takeaways

UAB faces significant challenges with a new interim coach and a key player injured.

Memphis is a strong favorite due to their powerful offense and UAB's defensive struggles.

The game holds historical significance as the "Battle for the Bones."

Discussion

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