While the focus was on East Carolina's deficiencies on offense during the 2023 season, the Pirates' defense quietly became one of the best units in the American Athletic Conference. ECU allowed 341.3 yards per game to rank second among AAC teams in total defense, was third in rushing defense (122.2), fourth in passing defense (219.2) and fourth in scoring defense (219.2). … [Read more...]
Offensive Class Report CardPirates load up talent at key positions
East Carolina produced the lowest amount of passing yards in 30 years during the 2023 season, and the fewest passing touchdowns in almost four decades. ALEX FLINN, MASON GARCIA and RAHEIM JETER combined for 1,967 passing yards, or 163.9 yards per game to rank 120th out of 130 Football Bowl Subdivision programs last season. Their combined seven touchdown throws tied for last … [Read more...]
VIEW FROM THE EASTSigning day relegated to minimal fanfare
The first Wednesday in February, the traditional national signing day, came and went with minimal activity on the fax machine in the East Carolina football offices in the Ward Sports Medicine Building. The Pirates used to announce a class of high school seniors on the traditional signing day. There was even some tailgating in the environs of the Murphy Center. ECU coaches … [Read more...]
VIEW FROM THE EASTECU pulls QBs from portal
In contrast to the Dr. Pepper commercial with the quarterback being drawn into the transfer portal, East Carolina has been pulling quarterbacks out on the other side. ECU continues to delve into the ever-widening portal to address personnel needs following a 2-10 season in 2023. The Pirates landed a pair of Power Five transfers this week, including a quarterback who will … [Read more...]
AAC Early Signing ReviewAAC rosters reshaped by transfer portal
The American Athletic Conference continues to be reshaped by the ever-changing landscape of college football. For the second straight year, the AAC will experience a shuffle in membership with 2023 champion Southern Methodist defecting to join the Atlantic Coast Conference next season. The Mustangs will move to the ACC along with California and Stanford in one of the latest … [Read more...]