UAB hires Garrick McGee as coach

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- UAB has hired Arkansas offensive coordinator Garrick McGee as head coach.

Blazers athletic director Brian Mackin announced the hiring Sunday night, a day after Razorbacks coach Bobby Petrino issued a statement congratulating McGee on landing the job.

McGee is a finalist for the Broyles Award given to the nation's top assistant. He replaces Neil Callaway, who was ousted after five seasons when he failed to post a winning record.

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Wesley Hitt/Getty ImagesUnder offensive coordinator Garrick McGee, Arkansas this season led the SEC in total and passing offense and was second in scoring.

"I'm very excited about the opportunity at UAB and the fact that this is an academic institution first and one that values education," McGee said. "My responsibilities are to make this a competitive program on the field.

"I expect to win here and win the Conference USA championship. I think when you're in a state that values the sport of the football the way that this state does, then there should be no reason why we can't compete for the conference championship."

McGee is a former Oklahoma quarterback who spent the past four seasons at Arkansas, including two as offensive coordinator.

The Razorbacks lead the Southeastern Conference in total and passing offense and are second in scoring.

McGee will be introduced in a news conference Monday morning.

"When we began the process a week ago to find a new coach to lead our football program, it was our goal to find a coach who met a certain profile who could be successful at UAB," Mackin said. "Garrick McGee brings all of the qualities to UAB that we were looking for in a coach. Coach McGee brings energy and passion to our program, and will get out in the community to sell UAB football.

"We are extremely excited to have Garrick McGee as our football coach."

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press

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