UAB closes disappointing 2025 season with a win over Tulsa

November 29, 2025 - UAB closed its season with a thrilling 31–24 road win over Tulsa, powered by Jevon Jackson's two fourth-quarter touchdowns and a clutch performance from quarterback Jalen Kitna.

In a game that saw momentum swing wildly, the UAB Blazers overcame a fourth-quarter deficit to stun the Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Skelly Field in Oklahoma. The win marked UAB's fourth of the season, matching Tulsa's final record at 4–8, and gave the Blazers a 2–6 finish in American Athletic Conference play.

Fourth-Quarter Surge Seals the Win

Trailing 24–17 early in the fourth, UAB leaned on running back Jevon Jackson, who delivered two punishing touchdown runs-one from 20 yards out and another from 3 yards-to flip the game. Jackson finished with 117 rushing yards on 23 carries, showcasing power and poise when it mattered most.

Quarterback Jalen Kitna was efficient and composed, completing 14 of 17 passes for 166 yards and two touchdowns, including a third-quarter strike to Brandon Hawkins Jr. that tied the game at 17.

Game Highlights and Stats

• Total Yards: UAB 395, Tulsa 357

• Time of Possession: UAB dominated with 35:23 to Tulsa's 24:37

• Turnovers: UAB 1, Tulsa 2

• Third Down Efficiency: UAB 9/17, Tulsa 4/13

Tulsa's offense was led by Ajay Allen, who rushed for 129 yards and a touchdown, and Baylor Hayes, who threw for 159 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Despite a strong second quarter, Tulsa was shut down in the third and couldn't hold off UAB's late surge.

Defensive Standouts

UAB's defense, which had struggled all season, stepped up in key moments. Jamarcus Vessel led the team with 12 solo tackles, while Cameron Burge recorded a sack and three tackles for loss. The unit forced two turnovers and held Tulsa scoreless in the third quarter.

Season Finale with Grit

Despite entering the game as 9.5-point underdogs, the Blazers showed resilience and execution in their final outing. With 39 players reportedly unavailable due to injuries and other factors, the win was a testament to depth and determination.

For Alabama fans and outreach storytellers, this game offers a powerful narrative of perseverance and late-season pride. UAB's victory not only capped a challenging season with a high note but also showcased emerging talent and leadership that could shape the program's future.

Editorial note by Brandon Moseley - lead reporter and content manager for the Alabama Gazette:

As of press time, UAB has still not made a decision about who will be hired as head coach. Interim head Coach Alex Mortenson has some fan support, but at the moment there does not seem to be a clear favorite for who will take over the program. UAB fired head coach Trent Dilfer after just 2 and a half years of coaching on the Southside.

Early reports are that 30 UAB players are weighing entering the transfer portal. Adapting to the new NIL era of football has been a struggle for UAB (which lacks the fan and sponsor backing needed to compete for talent in the pay to play era) as has adapting to the much more demanding level of play in the American Athletic Conference after leaving Conference USA. The win over Tulsa improves UAB to 4 and 8 overall and 2 and 6 in the American Conference.

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