In a stunning upset, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) football team triumphed over No. 22 Memphis, delivering a thrilling 31-24 victory. This game featured Alex Mortensen, the son of renowned ESPN NFL insider Chris Mortensen, making his debut as interim head coach. The matchup was broadcast on ESPN2, adding to the significance of the event.
Alex Mortensen’s Historic Debut
UAB entered the game with a 3-4 record and was facing a daunting challenge as 21.5-point underdogs. This marked Alex Mortensen’s first game as a head coach after the departure of former coach Trent Dilfer. Despite low expectations, the Blazers managed to secure a remarkable win, establishing a new benchmark in college football history.
Significance of the Victory
This victory is notable for being the largest upset recorded in a coach’s first game since 1978. Several pundits and social media commentators celebrated Mortensen’s achievement. They expressed admiration for his late father, Chris Mortensen, who passed away from throat cancer the previous year.
Tributes and Memories
Former colleagues and fans took to social media following the game, paying homage to Chris Mortensen. They shared sentiments reflecting on the similarities between father and son, emphasizing the pride Chris would have felt witnessing Alex’s achievement.
- Adam Schefter highlighted the significance of the win, calling it “incredible.”
- Ryan Brown remarked on how Chris would be proud of his son’s accomplishment.
- ESPN’s various accounts congratulated Alex Mortensen, linking the victory to his father’s legacy.
Background of Alex Mortensen
Before stepping into the role of interim head coach, Alex Mortensen had a successful college football career and briefly played in the NFL. He later worked as an offensive coordinator at UAB, gathering experience under Nick Saban during his tenure at Alabama.
Although Chris Mortensen was not present to witness this milestone, his influence remains strong in the sports community. This victory not only propels UAB’s season forward but also pays homage to a familial legacy deeply rooted in sports journalism.
