UAB Football: 4 Blazers set to shine in 2023

ATHENS, GA - SEPTEMBER 11: Noah Wilder #50, Keondre Swoopes #0, and Dy'jonn Turner #14 of the UAB Blazers tackle Kendall Milton #2 of the Georgia Bulldogs in the first half at Sanford Stadium on September 11, 2021 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Brett Davis/Getty Images)
ATHENS, GA - SEPTEMBER 11: Noah Wilder #50, Keondre Swoopes #0, and Dy'jonn Turner #14 of the UAB Blazers tackle Kendall Milton #2 of the Georgia Bulldogs in the first half at Sanford Stadium on September 11, 2021 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Brett Davis/Getty Images) /
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Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Jacob Zeno, Quarterback

Finally, we have to give some attention to the signal caller. Jacob Zeno played as backup to Dylan Hopkins in 2022, starting only two games. He transferred in from Baylor where despite a couple of spectacular flashes, he never really laid a glove on any of the starting QBs ahead of him.

Zeno is a prototypical build, measuring in at 6’4, 215 lbs, and has dual-threat ability. Last year he averaged 5.3 yards per rushing attempt but must tighten up his ball security, registering three fumbles. With a below-par completion % of 54.3, Zeno has plenty of work to do.

That said, who better to guide him than new Head Coach Trent Dilfer? Dilfer’s experience in quarterback development through the Elite 11 program and also his own successful NFL career, make him an ideal mentor.

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Zeno has physical tools to work with, it will be intriguing to see if Dilfer can polish him up and produce a true playmaker.