This annual feature is back, as we hit up beat writers for Troy's opponents and get their take on the program. This week, it's with Steve Irvine of the Birmingham News/al.com, who has covered UAB for the last several years and seen all of the same Troy-UAB thrillers as I've seen.
1. What has been the general reaction to the Garrick McGee hire?
There is an entirely different atmosphere around the UAB football program right now and it's all due to the job that McGee has done. I think most UAB people think McGee will turn the program into a winner. Time will tell if that happens but he's been impressive thus far. You might want to check back after a rugged September to see what the mood is at that point.
2. UAB listed an OR between Jonathan Perry and Austin Brown's name on the QB depth chart. How do you see that position playing out?
I would be surprised if Jonathan Perry is not the starter all season unless he gets injured. At this point, I think he's the better option of the two. I also think he's capable of doing really good things in UAB's offense. I think the only reason that there is a question is both are capable of playing well. This isn't a case where there is no separation because neither is playing well. Brown looked good during preseason practice. He has the best arm on the team and is a good athlete but he's also never taken a college snap.
3. Strengths/weaknesses of the offense?
The strength of the offense is the amount of playmakers that McGee and offensive coordinator Jeff Brohm can utilize. In my opinion, no one in Conference USA has a deeper stable of talented running backs and UAB is deep at receiver. Most think that the offensive line, which returns only one starter, is a weakness. McGee insists he's not worried about the offensive line. We'll see on Saturday.
4. Strengths/weaknesses of the defense?
Middle linebacker Marvin Burdette is sensational. He shed more than 30 pounds during the offseason, which makes him a sideline-to-sideline type guy. The defensive front is potentially very good. The biggest unknown is a secondary that is filled with freshmen. I think UAB has some talent in the secondary but you never know how they'll react in a game.
5. How do you see this game going?
I think it comes down to the final play. Corey Robinson will throw a Hail Mary pass that Eric Thomas catches with all but his feet in the end zone. The officials will rule Thomas down at the 1-yard line and the replay official will agree, allowing UAB to escape with the win. Just kidding. I do think it will be a final possession type game like it was the past two seasons.
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