Pirates Cruise on Homecoming: ECU Dominates Charlotte 48-22
East Carolina finally flipped the script in the in-state matchup, securing its first-ever win over Charlotte in convincing fashion. The Pirates controlled the game from the opening kick and never looked back, rolling to a 48-22 Homecoming victory inside Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. With the win, ECU moves to 6-3 overall and 4-1 in American Conference play, staying right in the mix for a spot atop the standings.
The Pirates built a 21-0 lead in the first quarter behind touchdowns from London Montgomery, Anthony Smith, and a pick-six from Tymir Brown, setting the tone early. By halftime, ECU held a 35-14 advantage, and from there, the Pirates coasted to their most complete performance of the season.
Offense in Full Control
Quarterback Katin Houser looked every bit like a leader ready to guide a postseason push. The sophomore completed 26-of-41 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns while also adding two rushing scores in another steady outing.
“Last year wasn’t fun,” Houser said postgame. “We tried not to think about that, but we wanted to get that bad taste out of our mouth. We’re trying to go on a run,” Houser added. “Every game now is really important.”
Anthony Smith led all receivers with eight catches for 69 yards and a touchdown, while Yannick Smith followed with six receptions for 59 yards and another score. On the ground, London Montgomery turned in one of his most efficient performances yet, 11 carries for 85 yards and a touchdown.
“I’m getting more confident, I’m feeling good,” Montgomery said. “The offensive line has been helping me get to this spot as well.”
In total, ECU racked up 407 yards of offense, went 4-for-4 in the red zone, and didn’t turn the ball over.
Defense and Special Teams Set the Tone
The Pirate defense made sure Charlotte never found its rhythm. ECU registered four sacks and nine tackles for loss, led by strong efforts from Chance Graves, Zion Wilson, and Jasiyah Robinson.
The early highlight came from Tymir Brown, whose 45-yard interception return for a touchdown gave ECU a commanding first-quarter lead.
“Previous guys coming back, former teammates coming back means a lot,” Brown said. “I look up to a lot of those guys, so it means a lot to me.”
Charlotte managed just 82 rushing yards on 30 carries and was limited to 11 first downs for the game.
Special teams were sharp again, as Nick Mazzie remained perfect on the season, drilling both of his field goals (including a 50-yarder) and converting all six PATs.
Coach Harrell’s Postgame Message
Head Coach Blake Harrell was all smiles after ECU’s most complete performance of the season, praising his players and everyone tied to the program.
“I’m happy for our locker room — not only the locker room, but everyone. The fans, the media, and everyone involved,” Harrell said.
Even with the dominant win, Harrell made it clear that the Pirates are aiming higher.
“I’m glad we got the win, but we got to halftime and we weren’t happy with our performance. The goal of this program is more than just making a bowl game.”
ECU has now won three straight and will wrap up its home schedule next Saturday against a nationally ranked Memphis team, a matchup that could play a massive role in determining the American Conference title picture.