Entering College, DeWayne McBride had 8 offers, of which the University of Alabama-Birmingham was the smalled. McBride chose UAB over the likes of Purdue, Tulane, Colorado State and Appalachian State. In just three seasons as UAB, McBride has racked up 3,523 total rushing yards, alongside just 5 receptions. Though McBride decided to take just the seven hour drive from Starke, Florida to Birmingham, Alabama, that hasn't slowed his ability to pick up national recognition. In 2021, his sophomore campaign caught the eye of multiple media outlets, garnering McBride Pre-Season watch lists, and award finalist opportunities, including being the only G5 player to be a semifinalist for the Maxwell & Doak Walker Awards.