Marlin Dean Named Defensive Player of the Week
The UAB defensive lineman earned honors following a standout performance in a narrow win against Navy.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Football
UAB defensive lineman Marlin Dean has been named the American Conference Defensive Player of the Week after a dominant showing in a 24-20 victory over Navy. The graduate student led his team in a critical win that saw his defensive pressure secure key momentum shifts.
Why it matters
This award marks a significant milestone for the UAB football program, as it highlights the increasing defensive impact of the team during its three-year tenure in the conference. The recognition underscores the value of strategic transfers like Dean in elevating team competitiveness.
Marlin Dean recorded 12 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles during the 24-20 victory over Navy. Two of his forced fumbles resulted in recoveries, one of which led to a UAB touchdown and another which helped secure the game clock.
The players
Marlin Dean
He is a graduate student defensive lineman for UAB who transferred from Georgia State.
Ike Esonwune
He is a UAB football player who previously earned Defensive Player of the Week honors in Week 2.
UAB
This is the University of Alabama at Birmingham football program currently competing in its third year in the conference.
Navy
This is the United States Naval Academy intercollegiate football team that competes against UAB.
Samford
This is the intercollegiate football team scheduled to face UAB in an upcoming matchup.
The details
Marlin Dean, a graduate student transfer from Georgia State, anchored the UAB defense in the win against Navy. His three forced fumbles proved decisive, with one turnover directly resulting in a touchdown and another enabling the team to run out the remaining clock.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: UAB defeated Navy 24-20.
September 28, 2026: Marlin Dean was named Defensive Player of the Week.
October 3, 2026: UAB plays Samford at Protective Stadium.
Season Trajectory
Dean's performance provides a major boost to UAB as it looks to build momentum following its victory over Navy. Establishing consistent defensive play early in the season is critical for the team to remain competitive in the conference standings.
Dean's three forced fumbles against Navy effectively neutralized the opponent's offensive rhythm and allowed UAB to control the tempo. His active stat line suggests he will be a central focus for future opposing offensive schemes this season.
The takeaway
Marlin Dean has proven to be a transformative addition to the UAB defense through his high-impact playmaking. Fans should watch his development in the upcoming game against Samford to see if he maintains this defensive production.
What happens next
UAB is scheduled to face Samford at Protective Stadium on October 3, 2026, with kickoff set for 2:30 p.m.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Football section.
