Geno Smith, the talented quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, made headlines this past Friday, not for a performance in the NFL, but for his attendance at a very different kind of football game. While the Seattle Seahawks were preparing for their next contest, Smith was present at a collegiate football game—an event that captured attention for its unique context. Instead of being with his NFL team, Smith was at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he attended their football game against the Liberty Flames.
This wasn’t just a casual outing for the veteran quarterback. Smith’s decision to attend a UAB game, rather than a Seahawks matchup, was motivated by multiple factors, including personal connections, community involvement, and the impact of supporting a rising football program.
While Geno Smith was born in Miami, Florida, he spent significant portions of his childhood in the state of Alabama, which played a formative role in shaping his understanding of football and the game’s role in the culture. Alabama, of course, is famous for its college football powerhouses, namely the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and Auburn University Tigers. These two programs dominate the football scene, often overshadowing other schools in the state. However, UAB, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, has become a noteworthy underdog story in recent years.
UAB’s football program had been canceled in 2014 due to financial issues but was brought back in 2017 after overwhelming public support and the advocacy of passionate local fans. In a state that’s traditionally focused on the bigger names in football, UAB’s resurgence has been a story of perseverance and resilience. Geno Smith, who has always been a staunch believer in fighting against the odds, likely felt a personal connection to UAB’s fight for survival. His support of this program aligns with his belief that football has the power to unite communities and inspire perseverance in the face of adversity.
Another key reason behind Smith’s attendance at the UAB game was his relationship with UAB’s head coach, Trent Dilfer. Dilfer, a former NFL quarterback and Super Bowl champion with the Baltimore Ravens, took over as UAB’s head coach in 2023. Smith and Dilfer share a common bond as quarterbacks who have battled through the highs and lows of professional football. Both men understand the challenges that come with being an NFL quarterback and the pressure that accompanies the job.
Smith has spoken highly of Dilfer’s leadership qualities, particularly his focus on developing young players both on and off the field. Dilfer’s impact on UAB’s football program has been immediately noticeable, as the Blazers have enjoyed improved performances since his arrival. Given their mutual respect for each other’s careers, Smith’s attendance at the game was not just about supporting the team—it was about showing solidarity for Dilfer’s efforts to rebuild and elevate the UAB program.
Another important aspect of Smith’s visit to the UAB game was his role as a mentor. Geno Smith has always emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and inspiring the next generation of athletes. His own journey to the NFL, which was full of ups and downs, is a story of persistence, and he has often shared it in the hopes of motivating young athletes to never give up on their dreams.
By attending a UAB game, Smith was able to connect with younger players and show them that no matter where you start, you can achieve great things if you stay focused. His presence likely served as a powerful reminder for aspiring football players, particularly those at UAB and in the surrounding areas, that hard work and determination can pay off, even in smaller programs with fewer resources than the giants of college football.
Smith’s visit to UAB also underscores his commitment to supporting football programs that may not receive the same media attention or recognition as schools like Alabama and Auburn. UAB’s football program, while not as well-known as its larger counterparts, has a passionate and dedicated fan base. By attending the game, Smith was sending a message of support to the community, showing that he recognizes the importance of every football program, no matter its size. It was a gesture that not only motivated the UAB players but also reinforced the idea that all football programs deserve respect and attention.
Geno Smith’s decision to attend the UAB football game instead of a Seahawks matchup speaks volumes about his values as both an athlete and a person. His connection to Alabama, his friendship with Trent Dilfer, and his desire to mentor young athletes all played significant roles in his decision. By supporting UAB’s program, Smith demonstrated his belief in the power of football to inspire communities, motivate young players, and create lasting change. His attendance at the game was more than just an appearance—it was a statement about perseverance, support for underdog teams, and the importance of giving back. It’s a reminder that the impact of an athlete reaches beyond the field and that sometimes the most meaningful actions are those that occur off the field.