Former Nick Saban Alabama assistant Scott Cochran to make West Alabama coaching debut in Birmingham
Scott Cochran will debut as West Alabama’s head football coach at Birmingham’s Legion Field on August 30, facing Fort Valley State in the “Week Zero Labor Day Classic.” This matchup is part of a doubleheader that includes Valdosta State against Clark Atlanta, starting at 11:15 a.m., followed by the UWA-FVSU game at 3:15 p.m. Cochran, 46, assumed his role in February after Brett Gilliland transitioned to athletics director. He brings a wealth of experience, having won eight national championships while coaching alongside renowned figures like Nick Saban at LSU and Alabama, and Kirby Smart at Georgia.
While termed “Week Zero,” the event actually kicks off the first week of the college football season. NCAA rules require teams to seek special permission to hold games on this date. Tickets are available for purchase at weekzero.org and provide access to both games. The event also features the largest BBQ festival in Alabama, promising an exciting experience for fans. This celebration of football and barbecue is designed to draw attention to college football in the early season, showcasing Cochran’s new leadership at West Alabama, along with the excitement surrounding the start of the football season. As the Tigers prepare for their opener, all eyes will be on Cochran to see how he steers the team in a new chapter of West Alabama football.
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