Alabama State at UAB 2025: Game Preview, Time, Location, Streaming & Odds
The 2025 college football season officially kicks off with an exciting in-state showdown as the UAB Blazers host the Alabama State Hornets on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET. Taking place at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, this Week 1 matchup — 🏈 Alabama State at UAB — pits a rising Group of Five program against a proud HBCU contender in what promises to be a spirited opening night.
Though UAB enters as the heavy favorite, Alabama State is no pushover. Under the lights and in front of a packed stadium, the Hornets will aim to shock the FBS world. Meanwhile, UAB will be looking to make a statement to start their new campaign.
Let’s dive deep into everything fans need to know about 🏈 Alabama State at UAB, including team breakdowns, predictions, key players, how to watch, and the latest odds.
📅 Game Details – 🏈 Alabama State at UAB
- Matchup: Alabama State Hornets at UAB Blazers
- Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM ET
- Location: Protective Stadium, Birmingham, Alabama
- TV Broadcast: CBS Sports Network (expected)
- Streaming: Paramount+, Hulu Live, FuboTV, YouTube TV, CBS Sports app
The clash of in-state rivals gives football-hungry fans a tantalizing Thursday night appetizer before the full weekend slate begins.
🏟️ Game Venue: Protective Stadium, Birmingham
The game will be held at Protective Stadium, UAB’s state-of-the-art football venue located in downtown Birmingham. Opened in 2021, this 47,000-seat facility is one of the best in the Group of Five landscape and will provide a thrilling environment for the opening game. With fans from both programs expected to attend, the atmosphere will be electric.
🔍 Team Previews – 🏈 Alabama State at UAB
🟢 UAB Blazers: Building Momentum in the American Athletic Conference
After a rebuilding year in 2024, UAB enters the 2025 season with optimism. Head Coach Trent Dilfer, entering his second full year, has emphasized discipline, speed, and aggressive play-calling. UAB’s focus is on making a serious run in the AAC and starting the season with a dominant performance in 🏈 Alabama State at UAB.
🔑 Key Players for UAB:
- QB Jacob Zeno – A fifth-year senior with experience and confidence, Zeno will command the offense with poise.
- RB Jermaine Brown Jr. – Dynamic all-purpose back with breakaway speed and excellent vision.
- WR Tejhaun Palmer – A rising star with elite route-running ability.
- LB Deshaun Oliver – Tackling machine and emotional leader of the defense.
- CB Mac McWilliams – Ball hawk in the secondary known for key turnovers.
UAB’s biggest strength is its offensive line, which brings back four starters and is expected to dominate the line of scrimmage.
🟡 Alabama State Hornets: Hunting for the Upset
Under head coach Eddie Robinson Jr., Alabama State has made consistent strides in the SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference). The Hornets finished 2024 with a winning record and a top-tier defense in the FCS. They now face a major challenge in 🏈 Alabama State at UAB, but this seasoned squad believes they have what it takes to hang with the Blazers.
🔑 Key Players for Alabama State:
- QB Dematrius Davis – Former Auburn transfer who brings dual-threat ability and leadership.
- RB Jacory Merritt – Physical runner with good burst and field vision.
- WR Kisean Johnson – Reliable target with sure hands and YAC ability.
- DL Christian Clark – The SWAC’s top defensive lineman returns to anchor the front.
- S Irshaad Davis – Veteran safety with high football IQ and tackling skills.
Alabama State’s defense is the heart of their team, but their offense will need to take more risks to keep up with UAB’s scoring potential.
⚔️ Key Matchups to Watch
Jacob Zeno vs. Alabama State Secondary
Zeno’s accuracy and field awareness will be tested by a disciplined Alabama State secondary led by Irshaad Davis. If Zeno gets comfortable early, it could be a long night for the Hornets.
UAB O-Line vs. Alabama State Front Seven
Dematrius Davis vs. UAB Pass Rush
Davis’s mobility will be essential in avoiding sacks and extending plays. UAB’s front four must contain him and avoid giving up long scrambles.
📈 Odds & Predictions – 🏈 Alabama State at UAB
- Spread: UAB -24.5
- Over/Under: 54.5
- Moneyline: UAB -3000, Alabama State +1500
Expert Prediction:
- Pick Against the Spread: Alabama State +24.5
- Over/Under: Over 54.5
UAB is clearly the stronger team, but Alabama State’s experience and defensive unit could keep the game within three scores. Expect points from both sides, especially in the second half.
⭐ Players to Watch
Jacob Zeno – QB, UAB
Zeno is expected to lead the offense with command and experience. A clean game from him will be key.
Jermaine Brown Jr. – RB, UAB
With his combination of speed and elusiveness, Brown Jr. can break the game open with one big play.
Dematrius Davis – QB, Alabama State
If the Hornets want to stay close, Davis must use both his legs and arm to keep drives alive.
Christian Clark – DL, Alabama State
A monster on the line, Clark needs to disrupt Zeno and help slow the run game.
🧠 Coaching Battle: Trent Dilfer vs. Eddie Robinson Jr.
This is a fun coaching matchup of two passionate leaders with NFL backgrounds.
- Trent Dilfer: Former Super Bowl-winning QB now bringing a pro-style structure to the Blazers. He wants to turn UAB into a Group of Five powerhouse.
- Eddie Robinson Jr.: Former NFL linebacker who commands respect and gets the best from his players. His team plays smart, physical football.
This game will test both their strategies early in the season.
📊 2024 Season Recap
UAB Blazers (2024):
- Record: 4–8
- AAC Standing: 9th
- Points Per Game: 27.1
- Points Allowed Per Game: 33.6
- Notable Win: vs. FAU, 35–28
Alabama State Hornets (2024):
- Record: 7–4
- SWAC Standing: 2nd East Division
- Points Per Game: 24.8
- Points Allowed Per Game: 19.5
- Notable Win: vs. Alabama A&M, 21–20 (Magic City Classic)
🧩 X-Factors in the Game
- Special Teams Play: An unexpected punt return or blocked kick could swing momentum.
- Turnover Battle: If UAB fumbles or throws picks early, Alabama State will gain confidence.
- Game Tempo: If Alabama State slows the pace and wins time of possession, they can shrink the game.
🏆 Final Score Prediction
UAB 41, Alabama State 20
The Blazers will control both lines of scrimmage and pull away in the second half, but Alabama State will show plenty of fight. Expect a strong opening from both quarterbacks and at least one highlight-reel play from each side.
- Game MVP: Jermaine Brown Jr. – 130 yards rushing, 2 TDs
- Top Defender: Deshaun Oliver – 10 tackles, 1 sack
- X-Factor: Kisean Johnson – 6 catches, 85 yards, 1 TD
❓ FAQs – 🏈 Alabama State at UAB
When is the Alabama State at UAB game?
Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET.
Where is the game played?
Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Alabama.
How can I watch it?
Expected to air on CBS Sports Network and stream via Paramount+, Hulu Live, and FuboTV.
Is Alabama State an FBS school?
No, Alabama State is an FCS team in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).
Who’s favored to win?
UAB is heavily favored with a spread around -24.5.
What’s at stake in this game?
Pride, momentum, and fan confidence. UAB wants to show it’s a contender in the AAC. Alabama State wants national respect and a statement win.
🏁 Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch Thursday Night Matchup
The beauty of college football lies in its unpredictability, emotional intensity, and passionate fan bases — and 🏈 Alabama State at UAB offers all three in one game. From explosive plays to gritty defense and in-state pride, this Thursday night battle is about more than just the scoreboard.
For UAB, it’s a chance to prove they’re ready for the challenges ahead in the American Athletic Conference. For Alabama State, it’s an opportunity to crash the party and make a national statement. Either way, fans are in for a competitive and entertaining start to their football weekend.
