The Lions football team (2-3, 2-0) will put their two game winning streak on the line this weekend when they head to Birmingham, Ala. to face the desperate 0-4 University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) Blazers in a non-conference match.
“I prefer not to go out of conference right now because we have our eyes kind of set in conference play,” said Lions head coach Ron Roberts. “It’s just a different flavor and a chance to compete at a very high level.
Ironically the two teams enter the weekend on opposite ends of the spectrum. The Lions are currently in first place in the Southland Conference (SLC) riding momentum of two big conference wins, whereas the Blazers are seeking their first victory of the season. Despite the slow start by their opponent, Coach Roberts knows his team faces a tough challenge going on the road to face a Football Bowl Series (FBS) opponent.  
“They’re a dangerous team because they’re their own worst enemy right now,” said Roberts. “They’re a talented team they’re just shooting themselves in the foot. They’re the best 0-4 team I’ve seen in a long time.”
The Blazers have played well against quality opponents as they led in the second quarter at both nationally ranked Ohio State and South Carolina. The Lions are sure UAB will try to right the ship versus them, but Roberts and his staff are taking the necessary steps to ensure his team is prepared for Saturday’s contest.
“Right now we’re just focused on ourselves and trying to get better this week,” said Roberts. “Our biggest focus is eliminating errors and learning to execute in tough situations.”
UAB will mark the second FBS opponent that the Lions have faced this season and a win would mark the first win versus an FBS school since the programs reinstatement in 2005.
“I think there is going to be a little excitement and motivation to the game going up against a FBS opponent. You’re playing at one of the all time great stadiums in the country,” said Roberts. “I think that’s a heck of an experience.
Saturday’s game is set to begin at 2 p.m. at Legion Field. The game will be broadcast live via radio at KSLU-FM 90.9.