Games at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium are special for players coaches and fans. East Carolina will be hosting Florida Atlantic on Thursday night for an 8 p.m. kickoff. The matchup will be televised on ESPN2. It will be Paint it Black Night and interim coach Blake Harrell said the Pirates will be wearing black uniforms for the occasion. Harrell said the attire is popular with the … [Read more...]
VIEW FROM THE EASTPirates start hoops season after significant portal activity
East Carolina embarks on its third season under coach Mike Schwartz at home against North Carolina Wesleyan on Monday at 7 p.m. The Pirates have nine new players and some significant departures. Most notable of the roster retainees is guard R.J. Felton, who is second in scoring among returning players in the American Athletic Conference, posting 17.3 points per game as … [Read more...]
Inside Game DayPirates W-I-N at Homecoming as Houser passes for 5 TDs
GREENVILLE — Multiple factors came together for East Carolina in a 56-34 American Athletic Conference win at Homecoming over Temple at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium on Saturday. Interim coach Blake Harrell made the adjustment from press box to sideline with a fresh approach that seemed to energize the players. Quarterback Katin Houser completed 16 of 29 for 269 yards with five … [Read more...]
VIEW FROM THE EASTHouston’s tenure complicated by changes, COVID
When Mike Houston's tenure at East Carolina as football coach ended Sunday morning, it followed an incredible span of change the former national champion at James Madison could never have anticipated. Houston was confronted with the COVID crisis that shortened a season, lengthened player eligibility and even resulted in the cancellation of a bowl game the Pirates were … [Read more...]
FOOTBALL NEWSHouston out, Harrell in as interim coach
GREENVILLE — Mike Houston, who was in his sixth season as head football coach at East Carolina, was relieved of his duties on Sunday after a 45-28 loss at Army on Saturday. Athletic director Jon Gilbert made an announcement after an evaluation of the program. Defensive coordinator Blake Harrell will serve as interim head coach. Houston had successful stints at … [Read more...]