Get ready to have a few laughs because we’re about to take a deep dive into the world of UAB football and their new head coach, Trent Dilfer. But before we get started, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – Dilfer’s new Nike monster mask that covers the top half of his face. Is it just me or is it a little scary? Maybe that’s why the UAB football staff has been having a scare contest throughout spring camp. The goal is to sneak up on fellow staffers and spook them – preferably on camera for proof. So far, quarterbacks coach Nick Coleman is leading but we have to admit, using an air horn seems a little unfair.

It’s midday and Dilfer realizes that scaring someone in the daylight is difficult; it’ll be easier at night. That’s when his dog Nala, the 4-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix found by Dilfer’s daughter as a puppy in Louisville, Ky., decides to yawn in her bed. Dilfer asks anyone who enters the office if they’re good with dogs. It’s no wonder why – Nala is the real MVP!

This is an exciting time of year for a new staff at UAB. It’s busy, undoubtedly, as coaches are installing systems and getting to know their players, but for a few more months, they’re all undefeated. Dilfer, 51,

Serious News: nytimes